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People going to AMC movie theaters won’t be required to wear masks, the company said.
In parts of the country where rules force people to wear masks in businesses, AMC will abide by the ordinances and require guests to wear masks except while eating and drinking.
Guests at other locations are strongly encouraged to wear a mask during their visit to the company’s theaters, according to a press release.
AMC is starting to re-open theaters on July 15. All 600-plus U.S. locations are expected to open in time for the release of Mulan on July 24.
CEO Adam Aron said the decision not to require masks stems from trying to avoid a matter that’s become politicized.
“We did not want to be drawn into a political controversy,” Aron told Variety.
“We thought it might be counterproductive if we forced mask wearing on those people who believe strongly that it is not necessary. We think that the vast majority of AMC guests will be wearing masks. When I go to an AMC feature, I will certainly be wearing a mask and leading by example.”
The company is selling masks for $1 at theaters.
The two next largest movie theater chains in the United States are also not requiring masks in areas where masks aren’t required indoors.
Regal, which is starting to reopen on July 10, said in its recent announcement that employees and customers will be required to wear masks only where required by local governance.
Cinemark, referring to federal recommendations, said customers are strongly encouraged to wear masks. Where applicable, the company said it will adhere to local policies that require residents to wear masks in public.
Cinemark is beginning to reopen in early July.
All three companies are implementing heightened cleaning procedures to try to prevent infections of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus.
AMC is cleaning every auditorium between each showtime with enhanced disinfection including doors, handrails, and tray tables.
Fixtures and seating areas will be disinfected nightly using electrostatic sprayers.
Regal is closing every other register at the concession stand and reducing the size of its menu while requiring employees to undergo daily health screenings and wash hands at a minimum of every 30 to 60 minutes, depending on their job.
Cinemark’s changes include reducing operating hours, installing hand sanitizer stations, and employing new tactics to increase the fresh air intake to enhance the overall air quality of its theaters.
Focus News: AMC Not Requiring Masks When Movie Theaters Reopen
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