On Thursday, California officials outlined much-anticipated new guidelines that are the first widespread changes to the state’s stay-at-home order that has been in place since March.
What We Know:
- Gov. Gavin Newsom said he is allowing businesses such as clothing shops, florists, bookstores, and sporting goods stores to open their doors for curbside service — with restrictions.
- However, he also has said some local governments could receive variances. If infection numbers increase in a way that stresses the health system, the modifications may be dialed back, Newsom said.
- “It is a dynamic process. It is not etched in stone,” said Newsom. “At the end of the day, these are meaningful modifications.”
- Dr. Mark Ghaly, secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency, outlined the following:
- Retailers: Increase pickup and delivery and encourage physical distancing during pickup and install hands-free devices.
- Manufacturers: Close breakrooms and create outdoor break areas with physically distanced seating.
- Warehouses: Carry sanitation supplies during deliveries and use personal protective equipment for each stop.
- Since the stay-at-home order was issued on March 19, more than 4 million people have been thrown out of work in the nation’s most populous state.
- The guidelines are a part of Newson’s four step plan to reopen the state. The first phase involved making workplaces safe for essential workers. Stage 2, part of which was rolled out Thursday, allows for a gradual reopening of retail business, permitting curbside operations, manufacturing, and logistics.
- “We’re moving away now from essential and non-essential to lower risk,” Newson said.
- Businesses must meet the following guidelines: Perform a detailed risk assessment and implement a site-specific protection plan; Train employees on how to limit the spread of COVID-19, including how to screen themselves for symptoms and stay home if they have them, implement individual control measures and screenings, disinfectant protocols, and physical distancing guidelines.
- Dr. Mark Ghaly, the state’s Health and Human Services director, said data indicating stable conditions at hospitals gave authorities confidence to move into Stage 2. He said more businesses and sectors, such as shopping malls, restaurants offering seating, offices and outdoor museums, will be added later during the expansion of Stage 2.
- The next phase, which could reopen salons, gyms, movie theaters and in-person church services, could be months away. Phase 4 would end all restrictions and allow for large gatherings at concerts and sporting events.
So far, Newsom has said the state is on track to meet its goals.
