The Staples Center in Los Angeles has now issued new guidelines for admittance into their games, requiring either a vaccine passport or a Covid test within 72 hours of the event:
A health verification is required for all ticketed guests. Guests are required to present a photo ID, and either proof of full vaccination (two weeks since your final dose) or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the event date. pic.twitter.com/j67LkD4nlP
— STAPLES Center (@STAPLESCenter) April 13, 2021
In other words, everyone allowed into the stadium will essentially be COVID free. So no one should have to wear masks, right? Wrong.
Guests over the age of 2 are required to wear a face covering that covers both the nose and mouth at all times. Gaiters, bandanas, and coverings with exhalation vents are prohibited; a face shield still requires a face covering. pic.twitter.com/Gx2UaFcvKL
— STAPLES Center (@STAPLESCenter) April 13, 2021
This is madness. Everyone there will be COVID free, but they are still demanding masks in the strictest sense, and even if you are wearing a face shield covering your entire face.
Where is the science that backs up this level of masking when no one has COVID?
I already know your next question, which is what about people taking their masks off to eat during the games?
Pick up your food and beverage at the designated pick up location. Enjoy your food and beverage at one of the designated eating areas. No food and beverage will be permitted inside the seating area of the arena. pic.twitter.com/jgcyWQJB94
— STAPLES Center (@STAPLESCenter) April 13, 2021
Designated eating areas. Boy that sounds fun doesn’t it?
And lastly, they will not allow people in with bags of any kind. Why, I don’t know.
Bags and purses of any size are not permitted, including backpacks, clutches, totes, clear bags, and camera bags. Only bring necessary items that fit in your pocket. Wallets without chains/straps are allowed. pic.twitter.com/mKEUYiTGES
— STAPLES Center (@STAPLESCenter) April 13, 2021
But they do have lockers you can rent to put your stuff!
And suddenly things become clearer… pic.twitter.com/HIQKEEEaJV
— SkankyGelato (@FindingDore) April 14, 2021
I’m not an NBA fan by any stretch, but even if I liked it, there’s no way I’d go to one of their games with this level of restrictions. This is just crazy.