With vaccination rates and box office numbers rising, it seemed like only a matter of time before theaters would reverse mask requirements for vaccinated moviegoers. And now, AMC, Regal and Cinemark have finally announced that mask-wearing is no-longer required for those who have been fully vaccinated.
“Consistent with the latest CDC guidance and following consultation with public health experts, AMC Theatres guests who are fully vaccinated are no longer required to wear face coverings at AMC locations, unless it is mandated by state or local ordinances,” said AMC in a statement. “Guests who are not fully vaccinated are asked to continue wearing masks. All other aspects of the AMC Safe & Clean policies and procedures, including seat blocking, remain in place at this time.”
It’s unclear how the new rules would be enforced since it’s basically impossible for employees to do anything to a customer who claims they’re vaccinated when they really aren’t. It’s also unclear if employees will still be required to mask up if they’re fully vaccinated. As of now, some chains will still require social distancing and reduced capacities. Regal, however, will no longer require vaccinated guests to be socially distanced. Masks are still strongly encouraged for those not vaccinated, and are optional for those who are.
U.S. theaters and box office numbers still aren’t back to normal, but it seems that they’re slowly but surely getting there.
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