LA County announces new 'safer-at-home' order that allows some additional businesses to reopen
While the new order does not have an end date, officials have said that some form of it will likely remain in place for the next three months.
Los Angeles County officials on Wednesday announced a new "safer-at-home" order that allows two additional types of lower-risk businesses to resume operations.
The announcement comes after county Public Health Director Dr. Barbara Ferrer said that health order will "most certainly" remain in place, in some form, for the next three months.
Ferrer began Wednesday's health briefing by apologizing for any confusion she "inadvertently caused" when she made those statements, adding that she did not intend the message to be that the region's stay-at-home order would remain as-is for that long.
The order will continue to be modified and loosened over time, she said, while remaining in effect. The newly issued order replaces the previous one, which was set to expire this Friday, but does not have an end date.
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti on Wednesday also sought to calm some of the public agitation over Ferrer's statements. He said his phone "blew up" with questions and comments after Ferrer spoke Tuesday.
He praised her efforts at leading the county's response to coronavirus, but sought to clarify her comments. He said the city won't be on lockdown for three months. He said some restrictions have been eased and will continue to be modified as appropriate.
"No, we won't be shut down for three more months," Garcetti said. "That's not what I heard, that's not what I expect. That's not what I hope."
Under the new order, all retailers can now open for curbside pickup, with the exception of those in shopping malls and centers. Manufacturing and logistic businesses that supply those retailers can now also reopen.
A variety of outdoor spaces for low-contact recreational activities can also now reopen. That includes tennis courts, pickleball courts, shooting and archery, equestrian centers, bike parks and community gardens.
The same precautions, such as physical distancing and face coverings, are still required under the new order. The public is still not allowed to enter any of these businesses.
On Tuesday, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced guidelines that restaurants must follow in order to reopen dine-in services.
