What to know about mandatory masks

Doesn’t Illinois already require masks in stores?

Yes, but shoppers may notice changes in enforcement, particularly at the front door. Walmart said it will station “health ambassadors” wearing black polo shirts near the entrance to remind maskless shoppers about the rules. The chain said ambassadors will work with customers who don’t have a mask, and that it is “currently considering different solutions.” Sam’s Club, Best Buy and Kohl’s also will have an employee at the door to remind shoppers to wear a face covering. Best Buy and Sam’s Club said they will provide free masks, if needed.

What if a customer won’t comply?

In a statement, Walmart said “virtually everyone” follows the rules where masks are already required. Still, Walmart doesn’t want to put employees in a situation where they may get into a physical confrontation, said spokesman Kory Lundberg. Employees have been told to let shoppers who refuse to wear a mask in and notify a manager.

CVS said it doesn’t want employees to “play enforcer.” Employees are told to help customers who won’t comply check out as quickly as possible and let them know about options that don’t require a mask, like delivery or drive-thru window service, said spokesman Mike DeAngelis.

Other retailers did not address questions from the Tribune about cases where customers refuse to wear a face covering.

What about customers with a medical condition or disability?

Illinois advises people who can’t wear a face covering for health reasons to work with a store employee to find a solution that lets them make purchases without putting anyone’s health at risk or causing “undue hardship” to the business. That could include placing an order for curbside pickup or delivery, or shopping at a quiet time when it’s easier to maintain social distancing.

Customers don’t need to show proof of a medical condition or disability under Illinois guidelines, and many retailers said they don’t require it. At Walmart, shoppers who say they can’t wear a face covering for medical or religious reasons will be allowed to enter without a mask.

When do the new policies go into effect?

Best Buy began requiring masks at all stores Wednesday. Walmart, Sam’s Club, CVS, Fresh Thyme, Meijer and Kohl’s will require them nationwide starting Monday. At Kroger and Target, the rules goes into effect July 22 and Aug. 1, respectively.