WASHINGTON (August 5, 2021) – The following is a statement from Chip Rogers, president and CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, on updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) face-covering guidance due to the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant.

“As cases of the COVID-19 Delta variant continue to grow in the U.S., hotels will implement safety guidelines based off CDC guidance, and in accordance with state and local laws.  As outlined by the CDC, the circumstances for a change in mask requirements are local, not national, and may be temporary depending upon location. Therefore, we encourage each hotel to monitor their specific location and act accordingly. 

“Throughout the pandemic, hotels have met the challenge of the public health crisis through Safe Stay, an industry-wide set of health and safety protocols. The Safe Stay guidelines continue to evolve with the current environment to ensure the safety of our employees and guests.  As we navigate this ongoing public health challenge, we urge every qualified individual to get vaccinated to help ensure the safety of our communities.”