State OK's Riverside, San Bernardino and Orange counties to advance to Stage 2.5 economic recovery
SOUTHLAND (INT) San Bernardino and Orange counties have joined Riverside County in reopening their economies during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) approved the revised request of each county to reopen more businesses under Governor Newsoms accelerated Phase 2. The revision was based on new criteria announced by the state.
The following locations can now reopen in Riverside, San Bernardino and Orange counties: destination retail stores, including shopping malls and swap meets; dine-in restaurants; and schools with modifications. However, local health orders prohibiting primary schools for grades K-12 is still in effect until June 19th.
Riverside County Supervisors Chairman V. Manuel Perez hailed the states approval under stage 2.5. We look forward to the state allowing more sectors of the economy to open in the coming days and weeks.
San Bernardino County Supervisors Chairman Curt Hagman warned on Saturday This virus is still very present throughout our county, state and nation, so we must remain vigilant by physical distancing, wearing face coverings, and washing our hands often. But our goal of minimizing illness and building the capacity to protect the vulnerable, serve the sick, and track the virus in our communities has been achieved."
Riverside County was granted approval Friday followed by San Bernardino and Orange counties on Saturday.
Local officials say they meet readiness criteria, and submitted their plans to the state. Approval of the Variance and Attestation Form would allows the counties to accelerate Stage 2 opening immediately.