Wearing face coverings or masks during the COVID-19 pandemic has been a polarizing issue for many. Some see it as an essential way of preventing the spread of the virus, while others see it as an invasion of their Constitutional rights. There is the belief that, as early as later this week, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is going to follow the lead of other states and cities that have required wearing masks and face coverings at all indoor locations. Individual businesses have been making decisions for themselves as to whether face coverings should be required.

This morning, retail giant Walmart – the largest retailer and private employer in the United States – announced that, starting Monday, July 20, all customers and employees entering its stores will be required to wear face coverings. In a statement, Walmart cited that with coronavirus cases rising throughout the country, that, for the sake of consistency, all Walmart and Sam’s Club stores will require face coverings to enter their buildings.

While this may come as unwelcome news to many, wearing face coverings is coming closer to being the norm rather than the exception.

There are two Walmart locations in Wright County – in Buffalo and Monticello.