Amazon makes masks optional for U.S. warehouse workers

As Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to drop nationwide, Amazon is rolling back its mask requirement for warehouse workers.

Unless mandated by state or local law, face masks will be optional for workers at all U.S. operations facilities starting Tuesday.

This announcement is an exciting step in our path to normal operations, according to the notice.

Unvaccinated employees should continue wearing a mask, according to Amazon. The company said that any workers who prefer to wear a face mask are welcome to do so.

Representatives from Amazon did not respond to a request for comment.

Amazon revived its mask mandate last December after seeing a surge in Covid-19 cases. Amazon, the second-largest employer in the US, doesn't require its workers to have vaccines.

Target and Tyson Foods have loosened their mask policies in recent weeks as coronaviruses have fallen from highs late last year. Amazon told employees that they could work without a face mask.

Most people can ditch their face coverings if Covid-19 hospitalizations in their communities remain low, thanks to new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than 70% of Americans live in areas that don't require masks.

CDC adjusts recommendations for mask-wearing.