More PA Stores End Mask Requirement

PENNSYLVANIA — After a review of the latest masking guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and the Federal Drug Administration, some stores around Pennsylvania have begun to amend their policies.

Both Target and Walmart have issued statements saying they will no longer require fully vaccinated guests or employees to wear masks inside stores. Initially, the two superstores had been among numerous establishments in a holding pattern after last week's announcements.

"Face coverings will continue to be strongly recommended for guests and team members who are not fully vaccinated and we’ll continue our increased safety and cleaning measures, including social distancing, throughout our stores," a spokesperson for Target told Patch.

"Beginning today, vaccinated customers and members are welcome to shop without a mask, and we will continue to request that non-vaccinated customers and members wear face coverings in our stores and clubs," Walmart announced in a news release. "We will update the signage in our facilities to reflect this."

Walmart and Target are not alone. Other major chains in Pennsylvania are making the shift: Starbucks, Costco, Sam's Club, and Trader Joe's will also no longer require masks.

For others, precautions remain in place despite the go-ahead from federal health officials and the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Places like Walgreens, CVS, Macy's, Home Depot, and more have their restrictions in place.

The CDC said Thursday that people who have been fully vaccinated can resume activities without wearing a mask or staying 6 feet apart, except where required by local ordinance or law.