The In-N-Out burger chain's decision to bar employees in five states from wearing masks without a doctor's note has sparked controversy and drawn criticism from public health officials, informs AP news on July 19. The leaked internal company emails revealed that the new guidelines would be implemented in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Texas, and Utah, starting on August 14. In-N-Out emphasized the importance of customer service and the need to showcase employees' smiles and facial expressions while also considering the health and well-being of all individuals.
The policy exceptions are made for employees who require masks or other protective gear for specific job duties, such as painting. Failure to comply with the mask ban could lead to disciplinary action, including termination.
However, California and Oregon, which also have In-N-Out locations, already have laws in place that prevent employers from banning masks. As a result, employees in those states can still choose to wear masks in stores, provided they use company-provided N-95 masks, and must provide a valid medical note if opting for different masks.
Critics of In-N-Out's new mask guidelines, including infectious disease specialist Dr. Judy Stone, argue that requiring a doctor's note could be burdensome for many employees who lack access to a primary care physician or adequate healthcare resources. Additionally, there are concerns that such requirements may violate the Americans with Disabilities Act, as masking may be viewed as a request for accommodation, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions that increase their risk of severe COVID-19.
This is not the first time In-N-Out has faced controversies related to pandemic safety measures. Last year, the burger chain refused to enforce COVID-19 vaccination rules at several California locations, resulting in fines and temporary closures.
As public health officials and experts continue to emphasize the importance of mask-wearing to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, In-N-Out's decision has drawn attention to the ongoing debate over balancing business interests with employee and customer safety.
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