California took early and strict measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic by imposing lockdown restrictions to curb the disease spread. Businesses operated under capacity limits, face masks were mandatory, and social distancing protocols were in place from March 2020. However, with an effective vaccine rollout, California has now reached a point where it can reopen completely.
As of now, California has lifted all capacity restrictions and social distancing rules, and fully vaccinated individuals are no longer required to wear masks. Exceptions include settings like public transportation, hospitals, jails, schools, and daycares where masks are still mandated, aligning with CDC guidelines.
Governor Gavin Newsom expressed, “California is moving forward from the pandemic due to prompt state actions and the public’s adherence to health protocols and vaccinations. With nearly 40 million vaccine doses administered and one of the lowest infection rates nationally, we are easing daily restrictions while staying watchful to safeguard public health amid the ongoing pandemic.”
California has shown strong support for vaccinations with approximately 72% of adults and 59% of all residents receiving at least one vaccine dose. The state currently boasts the third-lowest per capita seven-day death rate and the seventh-lowest per capita infection rate in the U.S.
Good morning California.
It’s reopening day.
We’ve administered over 40 million vaccines.
Now…
No more social distancing.
No more capacity limits.
No more colors or county tiers.
And if you’re vaccinated—no more masks.
It’s a good day.
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 15, 2021
While progress has been made, Newsom emphasized that the work is not complete. He cautioned, “We’re not declaring victory yet. We must remain cautious as the virus is still a threat. Globally, more lives have been lost to COVID-19 in 2021 than in the entire year of 2020.”
Newsom urged honesty regarding vaccination status and mask-wearing, advising unvaccinated individuals to continue wearing masks. “Trust is crucial, both at a national and state level,” he emphasized.
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