Publix to require its associates to wear masks again inside all locations

LAKELAND, Fla. — Florida-based grocer Publix will start requiring its employees to wear masks again, regardless of vaccination status.

The company said employees must wear masks over their noses and mouths while inside any Publix location, starting Aug. 2.

The company sent the following statement to Action News Jax:

“The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) updated guidance recommends that individuals in areas of substantial or high transmission risk wear face coverings over their noses and mouths when in public, indoor spaces.

“Effective Aug. 2, Publix is requiring associates, regardless of their vaccination status, to wear face coverings over their noses and mouths while inside any Publix location, and we encourage all to do their part to slow the spread of COVID-19.

“We continue to encourage, but not require, our associates to get vaccinated.”

Walmart, the nation’s largest retailer, will also start requiring its employees to wear masks again beginning Aug. 2.

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