Costco Mask-Wearing Mandate Riles Members

Costco is making shoppers wear masks in its stores, but some members of the warehouse chain are pushing back at the directive.

"Adios #Costco! Won't be renewing my membership!" one member tweeted. "I REFUSE to mask up for the low IQ mob that's falling for the propaganda, not to mention the health risks by restricting oxygen!"

Some members called for a boycott, and many took issue with the policy, arguing it promotes a safety measure that infringes on their rights.

One shopper said the policy was ineffective, while another called it fearmongering. Another took issue with being told what to do.

The policy takes effect Monday in all Costco stores, and demands "all Costco members and guests must wear a face covering that covers their mouth and nose at all times while at Costco,” Business Insider reported.

CEO Craig Jelinek defended the policy in a statement posted to the company's website.

"We know some members may find this inconvenient or objectionable, but under the circumstances we believe the added safety is worth any inconvenience," Jelinek wrote. "This is not simply a matter of personal choice; a face covering protects not just the wearer, but others too."

Costco's new policy is in-line with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations, which advise that people wear face coverings in public settings to slow the spread of the coronavirus. 

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