Costco Announces Big Changes Concerning COVID-19 Policy
If you are an avid Costco shopper, you are already aware that masks are required for all customers except those under two but now a new policy is being implemented to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Starting Thursday, November 19th, Costco members will only be allowed to have one guest with them at a time. The new policy is in response to Governor Inslee's new COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines for the next four weeks in hopes of slowing down or stopping COVID-19.
The COVID-19 rollback to a storewide capacity of 25% took effect on Tuesday at 12 AM and caused a flood of customers on Monday trying to shop and grab as many supplies as needed from the megastore.
The new sign is already up at the Kennewick store on Gage and Costco updated their mask policy online that reads:
Members and guests must wear a face mask that covers their mouth and nose at all times. Individuals who are unable to wear a face mask due to a medical condition must wear a face shield. Children under the age of 2 are exempt. Entry to Costco will be granted only to those wearing a face mask or face shield.
The use of a face covering should not be seen as a substitute for social distancing. Please continue to observe rules regarding appropriate distancing while on Costco premises. For members who are unable to wear a mask or face covering, Costco has delivery options available on Costco.com. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
If you intend to shop at Costco over the next few weeks, be aware that you'll be required to have a face mask on and have one guest with you. You can check out more details on the story here
It is worth noting whether Costco or other franchises who choose to enact their zero tolerance mandate will run afoul of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA was passed in 1996, and in theory, supercedes store policies. However, given the nature of all these "emergency" orders during the pandemic, some stores are standing firm, others are allowing persons with notes from doctors or other certified proof to not have to wear one.