As COVID-19 infections spike in places across the country,
one of the country's largest retailers is taking action with updated guidelines
for customers and employees.
Walmart is requiring that all workers at its headquarters
as well as its managers who travel within the U.S. be vaccinated against
COVID-19 by Oct. 4.
The retailer based in Bentonville, Arkansas, is also
reversing its mask policy for its employees working in stores, clubs,
distribution facilities and warehouses. Going forward, they will be required to
wear masks in areas with high infection rates, even if they have been
vaccinated.
Walmart is also encouraging customers to wear masks in
stores located in areas with surging cases and will be adding back signs at the
entrances. It will also bring back so-called health ambassadors who will be
stationed at the entrances and hand out masks.
The company is also doubling to $150 the incentive it is
offering to workers in stores, clubs, as well as other facilities like
distribution centers, to get the vaccine. Those who already received the $75
incentive will receive another $75 in their paycheck dated Aug 19.
News 12’s Keith Kocinski was at the Walmart in Freehold, an
area of concern for new virus cases.
AP Wires were used in this report