Update on Mask Requirements

Dear Credit Union Members,

On Monday, May 10th, Missoula County lifted the local mask mandate. Yesterday, May 13th, the CDC issued new mask-wearing guidelines stating that fully vaccinated people can begin to return to normal activities without wearing a mask.

Given these developments at both the local and federal level, we are rescinding our mask-wearing mandate, effective immediately. This goes for both members and co-workers. We still recommend mask-wearing. However, we will not require it.

We know that not all members and co-workers are going to feel equally comfortable with this change. Some will applaud it. Some will consider it premature. Since March of 2020, we have tried to be a leader with respect to best practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This has always been challenging. At this juncture, we have concluded that it is not tenable for us to hold ourselves to higher standards than what is recommended by local and national health officials.

Just a few things to note:

• First, our team has been instructed to wear a mask if serving or meeting with a member who is wearing a mask. Feel free to request our co-workers to wear a mask when visiting our branches.
• Second, for a period of time, our Russell Street Branch will remain an exception. It will continue to be a place where we ask all members and co-workers to wear a mask. This is to give those members who are less comfortable with the loosening of mask-wearing standards a place to do business.
• Finally, we continue to ask all members and co-workers using our UM Branch at the University Center to follow all campus rules on mask-wearing.

Thank you very much for your patience, understanding, and continued membership through these challenging times.

Jack Lawson
(he/him)
President & CEO
Clearwater Credit Union