CDC's U-turn puts business in 'damned if you do' bind

Companies are rushing to assess their mask policies after a sudden announcement by U.S. officials put newly relaxed federal guidelines in conflict with the rules at many businesses.

Home Depot and TJX said they don't immediately plan to change their policies advising face coverings be worn inside their stores, while Macy's, Levi Strauss and Gap said they're reviewing the new guidance. The National Restaurant Association is also looking at the recommendations and is evaluating its covid-19 operating guidance and best practices for restaurants, while some banks are indicating they'll continue to require face coverings — at least for now.

Many companies were caught off-guard Thursday when the head of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said fully vaccinated Americans can largely do away with wearing masks and social distancing. While formal guidance still recommends masks while flying on planes, riding public transportation and visiting health-care facilities, the change could encourage people to go maskless in stores, restaurants, offices or other crowded places.