At a press conference this afternoon, California Governor Gavin Newsom discussed a 4-part roadmap for reopening the economy in the coming weeks and stated that the next school term may begin as early as this summer.
With the goal of preparing people throughout the state to plan for what they are calling a "new normal", Governor Newsom and Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sonia Angell detailed the four phases of reopening California at a news conference today. Officials stated that reopening businesses and childcare facilities could occur "in weeks, not months". Governor Newsom also announced that state officials are planning to possibly start the next school term in July or August of this year, although physical and environmental changes in schools must be considered before plans are solidified. It was repeated frequently during the discussion that we would not be going back to the way things were until we have some kind of therapeutic treatment for COVID-19.
On the topic of modifying the stay-at-home order, state officials detailed four phases to reopening the economy, although Newsom said he would defer to local governments to choose to maintain more restrictive measures. The first phase of the process is where we currently are - at home with only limited engagement with the essential work force. Phase 2 could come in the coming weeks with the reopening or more lower-risk businesses and child care facilities. The state will focus on work places and sectors that could be altered to reduce risk, including manufacturing, retail with curbside pickup like clothing & furniture, businesses and firms with a modified work environment, and more public spaces like parks and trails. Phase 3 will consider higher risk sectors related to businesses with inherently close proximity relationships like gyms, nail salons, hair care and spas. Phase 4 will not occur until therapeutics are in place, like immunity, medicine or a vaccine, and will be related to opening larger public venues, conventions, concerts and other situations where large crowds could be present. The reopening of restaurants for dine-in was never mentioned.
California currently has 43,464 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 1,755 deaths related to the virus. In comparison, New York City has 162K confirmed cases and 12,509 deaths.
California currently has 43,464 confirmed COVID-19 cases with 1,755 deaths related to the virus. In comparison, New York City has 162K confirmed cases and 12,509 deaths.
