Governor Newsom Provides Update on California’s Progress Toward Stage 2 Reopening
SACRAMENTO – Following up on the state’s announcement that it will begin modifying the stay at home order on Friday, May 8, Governor Gavin Newsom released updated industry guidance – including for retail, manufacturing and logistics – to begin reopening with modifications that reduce risk and establish a safer environment for workers and customers.
On Tuesday April 28, 2020, Governor Newsome laid out a 4-stage plan for reopening California from COVID-19. On Monday, May 4, Governor Newsome announced California will be prepared to move into the early phase of Stage 2 of reopening on Friday, May 8, 2020.
The reopening of select Stage 2 business sectors include some retail, manufacturing, and logistics businesses provided they can meet the guidelines provided by the state and the County of Ventura.
The following businesses can reopen, with modifications
Curbside retail only, including but not limited to:
- Bookstores
- Jewelry stores
- Toy stores
- Clothing stores
- Shoe stores
- Home and furnishing stores
- Sporting goods stores
- Antique stores
- Music stores
- Florists
- Supply chains supporting the above businesses, in manufacturing and logistics sectors
Note that big box stores will now be allowed to sell all items. Additionally, there are no limited business operations for critical infrastructure businesses.
Before, reopening, all facilities must confirm the following:
- My business is in one of the designated industries permitted to reopen by the State of California & the VC Health Officer order
- I have performed a detailed risk assessment of my business in accordance with State guidelines
- I have a written worksite-specific COVID-19 prevention plan and have posted it at my business (Retail sample form / Manufacturing Sample form)
- I have implemented control and screening measures for my business
- I have implemented disinfecting protocols for my business in accordance with State guidelines
- I have trained employees on how to limit the spread of COVID-19 including how to screen themselves for symptoms
- I agree to have an on-duty employee responsible for monitoring compliance with my plan
- I have posted the compliance hotline flyer provided in a prominent location visible to the public and employees. This flyer must include the County COVID hotline where compliance related questions or complaints may be reported by employees or patrons.
- I have completed the attestation form on www.vcreopen.com.
If you are a business that is already permitted to be open and in operation you are asked to review these requirements and confirm that you have met these requirements by registering your business (item #9 above) by May 18, 2020.
Questions regarding this process can be directed to the County of Ventura COVID Compliance Hotline at (805) 202-1805 or [email protected]
For public health information and updates happening in Ventura County, visit www.VCEmergency.com.
NOTE: Other Stage 2 sectors, such as offices and dine-in restaurants, will be part of a later Stage 2 opening. The May 8 announcement does not include offices, seated dine-in restaurants, shopping malls or schools. As the Governor noted previously, the state is working with school districts and the California education community to determine how best and safely to reopen.