Since businesses in Michigan have reopened, customers have had mixed opinions about face mask requirements.
Many businesses statewide including Appliance Parts Center in Bad Axe and Angel's Hair Studio in Cass City do not enforce masks. Others like Menard’s and Ric’s Food Center in Mt. Pleasant are hesitant to let customers in without one.
In April, Governor Whitmer signed an updated executive order requiring people to wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces. Many Michiganders have taken a stance against that decision.
Vice President of Operations at Ric’s Food Center, Tom Baumann, said they enforce face masks to make everyone safer.
“We have a variety of customers that are very, very happy about it and there have been a few that aren’t very happy about it as well,” he said. “If one [customer] comes in our store without one, we offer them one free of charge.”
Baumann said the store has received several calls to the corporate office and posts on Facebook praising their decision.
Businesses, like Walmart, do not require masks and said they’re worried they’ll lose business if they require the protection.
Whitney Oglenski, owner of Kastle Salon and Spa, said masks are highly suggested but does not feel she can enforce that. “If they cannot medically, I just ask that they bring a doctor’s note.”
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, cloth face coverings may slow the spread of the virus. It also could help prevent people who have the virus and do not know, from transmitting it.
