In California, face masks are required in all public settings, with certain exceptions. Those exempt from wearing face masks include:
1. Children under the age of 2
2. People with medical conditions that prevent them from wearing a face covering
3. People who are hearing impaired, or communicating with someone who is hearing impaired, when the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication
4. People for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk to the individual related to their work, as determined by local, state or federal regulations or workplace safety guidelines
5. People who are obtaining a service involving the nose or face for which temporary removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service
6. People who are eating or drinking while seated at a food establishment
7. Individuals who are engaged in outdoor work or recreation such as swimming, walking, hiking, bicycling, running, or engaging in water activities, and when alone or with household members
8. People who are voting, assisting voters at the polls, serving as election officials, or working at a polling place, provided that at least six feet of physical distance is maintained
9. People seated in a restaurant while they are eating or drinking
10. People with a disability who cannot medical or otherwise wear a face covering
11. People who are actively providing or obtaining access to religious worship, provided that at least six feet of physical distance is maintained
12. Peoples engaged in public speech, provided that at least six feet of physical distance is maintained.
What qualifies for a mask exemption in California?
In California, the state currently has a statewide mandate requiring individuals to wear masks or face coverings in public spaces to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. However, there are certain exemptions that apply depending on the situation.
Individuals with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents them from wearing a face covering may be exempt from the mandate. This includes people who have trouble breathing, unconsciousness, or cannot remove the covering without assistance.
Other individuals who may qualify for a face covering exemption are those who are hearing impaired, have communication disabilities, or are engaged in activity that makes it necessary to remove the mask.
Additionally, children under the age of two may be exempt as well. Population-based conditions like obesity and facial anomalies are generally also granted exemptions.
It is important to remember that while certain individuals may qualify for a mask exemption under the current mandate, they should still take additional steps to protect themselves and others by socially distancing, wearing a face shield when possible, and frequent hand cleansing or sanitizing.
Has mask mandates been lifted in California?
No, mask mandates have not been lifted in California. California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a statewide mask mandate in June 2020, which requires everyone in California to wear a face covering when outside their home, in both public and private spaces.
Additionally, indoor businesses such as restaurants and retail stores must require their employees, customers, and vendors to wear face masks while in the facility. The mandate also requires masks to be worn in outdoor settings when social distancing is not possible.
As of May 2021, this mandate is still in place and masks are still required in California. Even though some counties have begun allowing businesses to open up with limited capacity, people must still wear masks when in those establishments, regardless of vaccinations status.
What to do if a customer refuses to wear a mask?
If a customer refuses to wear a mask, then it is important to understand why they are refusing and address the issue accordingly. If the customer is medically unable to wear a mask, then it is important to be understanding and provide reasonable accommodations such as face shields or allowing them to work with you in an area away from other people.
If the customer is just unwilling to wear a mask, then it is important to make it clear that it is a policy that must be followed in order to be served. Explain why it is important to have this policy and stress its importance.
You may also choose to give them the choice of wearing a face covering, or leaving the store/building. If they choose to leave, then it is important to thank them for understanding and to offer any assistance they may need.
Can I enforce mask wearing in my shop?
Yes, you can enforce mask wearing in your shop if you wish. It is entirely up to you how restrictive or relaxed you make your mask policy. It is recommended, however, that you be consistent in your enforcement to ensure all customers take your policy seriously as safety, and the safety of your employees, should be your highest priority.
When creating your policy, consider what types of masks you’ll require customers to wear, how strictly you’ll enforce it, and how you’ll handle customers who don’t comply. You can choose to require all customers to wear a mask in store, provide them with masks to use during their visit, or require masks only in areas where social distancing isn’t possible.
In terms of enforcement, decide if you’ll have staff remind customers who don’t wear masks or if you’ll refuse service until they’ve complied. Also consider if you’ll provide a warning or issue a fine for violating your policy.
It is ultimately up to you, but enforcing mask wearing in your shop is a great way to protect the safety of both customers and employees.
Can a cashier refuse service?
Yes, a cashier can refuse service, depending on the circumstances. Cashiers have the right to refuse service if they feel threatened or uncomfortable, if they are being harassed, if the customer is intoxicated or causing a disturbance, if the customer is not wearing required facial coverings, or if they suspect fraudulent activity.
Additionally, cashiers may need to refuse service if the store does not accept the form of payment being offered or if the store has a policy that prohibits the sale of certain items. Ultimately, it is up to the individual cashier and store’s policies to determine when service can be refused.
It is important to remember that cashiers should do so in a respectful manner and with an explanation of why service is being refused.
Can you refuse to serve a customer?
Yes, in certain circumstances, it is appropriate to refuse to serve a customer. For example, when a customer presents a false identification for the purpose of making a purchase, it is warranted to refuse service.
Likewise, if a customer is exhibiting violent behavior or has previously been disruptive at the place of business, it is acceptable to refuse service. Additionally, a business reserves the right to refuse to serve a customer if that customer has previously refused to pay for services or merchandise.
Ultimately, any action that is taken as a refusal to serve must be documented to protect the business from any potential legal issues.
What is the mask mandate in Illinois?
In Illinois, the governor issued a statewide emergency mask mandate in July 2020 which requires people over the age of 2 to wear a face covering when in a public place where they can’t maintain a six-foot social distance.
The requirement applies to both indoor and outdoor settings, unless you have a medical condition or disability that makes it difficult to wear a mask. Exemptions are also made for individuals who are engaging in an athletic activity or in a religion or spiritual service, or individuals eating at a restaurant.
The mandate also requires businesses to create a written policy regarding the use of face coverings and post signs that notify customers that face covering are required. The policy must also include procedures for responding to customers who are not wearing masks.
Additionally, businesses must ask customers to wear face coverings upon entry, refuse service to anyone not wearing a face covering and ensure that staff members are wearing face coverings when dealing with the public.
Violation of any part of the mandate are subject to a misdemeanor that can result in penalties including a fine of up to $2,500 for individuals and $10,000 for businesses.