Casino operator Caesars Entertainment has become the first US gaming firm to impose a mandatory mask policy for both staff and customers following a spike in US COVID-19 cases.

On Wednesday, Caesars announced a new “universal mask policy” that took effect at noon at all Caesars properties currently open in Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri and Nevada, plus tribal casinos in Arizona, California and North Carolina, and will apply to casinos in other states as they reopen.  

“Everyone indoors,” which includes “employees, vendors, contractors, guests and passersby,” is now required to wear masks at all times, except when eating or drinking. Caesars CEO Tony Rodio said the scientific evidence was clear on widespread mask use limiting the spread of COVID-19 and any tough guys who refuse to mask up “will be directed to leave the property.”  

Previously, Caesars required mask use only by staff and, following last week’s revised rules issued by the Nevada Gaming Control Board, table game players who weren’t separated from their dealer by a physical barrier.