COVID Mask Controversy Hits Home for Michigan First Credit Union

When local media outlets reported earlier this month that the $1.4 billion Michigan First Credit Union would no longer permit its members to wear COVID-19 protection masks at branches starting Sept. 7, it was met with considerable backlash in social media comments, though some supported the credit union’s decision.

However, public criticism, along with concerns and uncertainties over the surge of COVID’s Delta variant, apparently led the Lathrup Village-based credit union to modify its policy to allow members and branch employees to wear transparent masks and face shields.

“There is no reason they can’t set up a camera at the door that allows for someone to show their full face to the camera, before coming in masked up,” H.T.H. wrote in a Facebook post after WDIV-TV News reported on Michigan First’s new mask policy on Aug. 11.

“Masks have no place in a bank,” W.R. wrote. “The tellers have no clue what their intentions are. By the time they are asked to lower their mask, they are already inside.”

More than 300 people shared their pro-mask, anti-mask and neutral comments as controversy over protective face coverings continues to flare up in many states.

The flare-up for Michigan First came soon after its initial Aug. 2 policy notification to members that they would not be allowed to wear a mask in branches starting next month.

About a week after the first media reports appeared on the credit union’s mask prohibition, Michigan First sent an updated email to its members notifying them that the credit union decided to change its policy on Aug. 17.

“We understand everyone’s situation is unique, and we strive to accommodate the need of all our members,” Michigan First stated in the email. “Through recent testing in our branches, we have determined that clear masks will work sufficiently in balancing our public health and physical security goals. Beginning Sept. 7, instead of all facial coverings being prohibited, we are adapting our branch policy to allow the use of transparent mask and face shields. If you need to wear a mask and would like to conduct business within one of our traditional branches after September 7, please wear a clear facial covering.”

In addition to allowing clear masks, the credit union noted its branches offer a clean environment with state-of-the-art ventilation systems, plexiglass barriers, and enough space for members and employees to social distance.

Michael Poulos, president/CEO of Michigan First, explained it’s important that employees and security cameras have a complete, continuous and unobstructed view of each individual conducting financial business in every branch to prevent physical and financial threats like robberies, identity theft, fraud, ATM spyware and other malicious attempts.

“While state government COVID-19 orders were in effect, we temporarily deviated from our standard security policy to allow face coverings,” he said. “Now that these orders have been rescinded, we are returning to standard industry practices.”

While Poulos acknowledged the Delta variant is certainly concerning, he also noted that the state of Michigan has not found it necessary to reinstitute a mask mandate or indoor capacity limits.

“We will continue evaluating the ongoing situation and will adjust our policy accordingly,” he said. “We have asked our team members to lead by example by either not wearing masks or wearing clear face coverings in our traditional branches beginning Sept. 7. Our 19 in-store branches will continue to adhere to the policies put in place by the Kroger or Walmart they operate in.”