Theater chains relaxing mask rules for vaccinated moviegoers – Everett Post

If you go to the movies this weekend and have received your COVID-19 vaccine, feel free to leave your mask at home.

That’s the word of three of the country’s biggest film chains, AMC, Regal and Cinemark.

All three have announced that vaccinated patrons will no longer have to wear the once ubiquitous – and mandatory – face covers as vaccination rates rise and the pandemic subsides across much of the country.

Unvaccinated patrons must continue to wear a mask and remove it only to drink or eat.

There is no word on how vaccination status would be checked, so – as many institutions are as things reopen – it appears to be based on the honor system.

The chains continue to insist that they continue to adhere to “expert-backed, industry-specific health and safety protocols,” as mandated by the National Association of Theater Owners (NATO).

These include improved cleaning practices, social distancing, and masks for theater staff.

In addition, the chain masks must be worn if a “state or local regulation” requires it – but in many states these rules have also been relaxed.