Marriott International and Hyatt will require guests at all US properties to wear face coverings in common areas; the mandate takes effect on July 27 and covers all geographical jurisdictions. The brands’ employees have been required to wear masks at work for some time.  Arne Sorenson, CEO of Marriott, said that health experts have made it clear that wearing face coverings in public spaces is one of the easiest steps that can be taken to protect fellow guests and staff and reduce the spread of COVID-19. Hyatt said some guests may be exempt from this mandate, including but not limited to people with medical conditions, consuming food or beverages in restaurants, and children under the age of two years. The moves align with the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s new Guest Checklist, released a few days ago, which calls for face coverings and social distancing in all public areas.