I have heard that some businesses are having challenges addressing individuals coming into their business without masks, particularly in those places where there is an ordinance mandating face coverings. I realize the "To Wear" or "Not To Wear" mask groups often feel very strongly about their particular position but what does that mean for a business and its employees? Do you risk the loss of a sale or being fined by asking someone to put on a mask? And then, if you do, what happens if the customer becomes irate and threatening. I'd like to say that we all need to be kind and give one another grace - this is a difficult time for everyone and its impact on our future is unknown, which is scary. But that's not always practical when you're faced with a challenging situation.

After doing some online research (see a listing of online articles regarding this topic below), the best advice I can provide to business owners is: know how you want to handle these situations and train your employees on how to react. Each of you have your own feelings, interests, and reputation to consider. Therefore, create a response that works best for you.

• From Inc.com, "How to Handle Customers Who Won't Follow Safety Rules"
• From Inc.com, "How to Protect Your People..."
• From US Chamber, "How to Get Customers to Comply With Your COVID-19 Policies"
• From Fisher-Phillips, ADA Considerations
• From Inc., "Face Mask Exemption Cards: What you Need to Know"