Governor Cuomo said you're not going to jail if you don't wear a mask - but you could face civil penalties from local police departments. The edict also affects Sam's Club employees as well.
They added the cloth face covering is not meant to protect the wearer, but it may prevent the spread of virus from the wearer to others. "This includes our stores, clubs, distribution and fulfillment centers, as well as in our corporate offices", it said.
The executives reminded their employees that face coverings are only an additional health precaution.
Customers will also be encouraged to cover their faces, although it will not be mandatory.
"We hope this step will promote safety and consistency across all of our facilities and be of comfort to our customers and members".
Some primary-care doctors say they still have no certainty when they will get much-needed protective equipment to protect them from COVID-19 and they are starting to run critically low on supplies.
That applies to employees (who must be given masks by their employers) and customers in essential businesses, including stores and restaurants, and to drivers and riders on public transit, including drivers and riders in Uber and Lyft vehicles. Walmart will provide all employees with a face covering, or they can bring their own.
Although most state and local governments do not mandate the use of face coverings in public settings, the CDC has reported that recent studies show a significant portion of individuals with the virus lack symptoms and can transmit the virus. Whether at work or elsewhere, practice six feet of social distancing whenever possible.
To hear more about the executive order and how you can make a mask or face covering, click on Emily De Vito's report.
Hopkins added that what they know for certain is that physical distancing, proper hand hygiene and staying home when you feel ill are the best options people have to protect themselves and others during this time.
