While the parent company has officially dropped its own mask mandate, allowing fully-vaccinated customers and most fully-vaccinated associates ditch their masks where appropriate, they have also said that they will continue to adhere to local mandates -- like the one put forth by Oregon health officials.
In Washington, counties and businesses can make their own rules about masking. However in Oregon, businesses must have a policy in place to check peoples’ vaccination status before they enter.
The new Oregon Health Authority guidance says if a businesses chooses to no longer require masks and social distancing, fully vaccinated individuals would need to provide proof that they've been vaccinated.
According to health officials, vaccine records have your name, birthdate, the type of shot you received, and the vaccination site.
Businesses are still allowed to keep their own mask requirements in place if they choose, health officials said.
This means customers will need to continue wearing masks in Oregon Fred Meyer stores regardless of vaccination status at this time.
Fred Meyer released a statement regarding their stores in Oregon, writing in part:
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, The Kroger Family of Companies’ most urgent priority has been the safety of our associates and customers. Last week, the CDC issued new guidance for individuals who have been fully vaccinated. In accordance with the guidance from the State of Oregon, we will continue to require customers and associates to wear masks in our Oregon stores at this time. We will continue to review the situation and make adjustments in order to ensure the safety of our associates and customers.