Mask Guidelines 'Not 100% Ideal': RVC Chamber Of Commerce

ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY — The state's new mask guidelines are good news for businesses and customers, but it's not without confusion.

"It's not 100 percent ideal yet," Brian Croutier, Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce president said."We are getting closer."

Since the state placed the mask requirements in small businesses' hands on May 19, customers have been greeted with signs that range from entering with no mask if fully vaccinated to no sign at all.

"Every step closer to 100 percent open is a good step," Croutier said.

Croutier, fully vaccinated, is going into stores without a mask where they permit it.

As for those not protected yet against COVID-19, some stores are using the "honor system" instead of requiring a vaccine card. Navigating the unchartered waters, Croutier hopes customers will be respectful, "until the mask mandate is lifted entirely and we have better guidance," Croutier said.

Whether it's a new business or an established eatery, Croutier said owners are all in the same boat as the summer season unfurls.

"There are different sets of rules and stuff they never had to deal with."