HOUSTON Texas-based retailer H-E-B announced that starting Wednesday, it will implement a mandatory mask policy in all stores, including those where a local ordinance is not in place, according to Lisa Helfman, H-E-B spokesperson. The mandatory mask police was implemented to help slow the spread of the COVID-19. As an essential service provider during the pandemic, H-E-B is focused on the health and safety of our Partners, customers and continuous service to our communities. Over 85% of H-E-B stores are already operating under a mandatory mask ordinance. Effective July 1, H-E-B will implement a mandatory mask policy in all stores, including those where a local ordinance is not in place.Until now, the store only required masks in Texas counties and cities where a mask mandate was in place.