SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — More businesses that fall under California's "Stage 2" could reopen sooner if their counties meet a list of health requirements.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom said Thursday that the state would allow counties to reopen further into "Stage 2," if counties meet a list of California Public Health criteria.
By this plan, Newsom said some counties could potentially proceed further into "Stage 2" than the state was currently allowing. Requirements include:
- Epidemiologic stability: No more than 1 case per 10,000 people in the last 14 days AND no COVID-19 death in the past 14 days.
- Testing capacity: Minimum daily testing of 1.5 per 1,000 residents.
- Protection of Stage 1 essential workers: Ability to support employees when sick or exposed AND availability of disinfectant supplies and protective gear.
- Containment capacity: At least 15 contact tracers per 100,000 residents AND ability to temporarily house at least 15 percent of county residents experiencing homelessness.
- Hospital capacity: County or regional capacity to accommodate a minimum surge of 35 percent AND hospital facilities must have a robust plan to protect hospital workforce.
- Vulnerable populations: Skilled nursing facilities must have more than 14 day supply of PPE on hand for staff with ongoing procurement from non-state supply chains.
- Triggers for adjusting modifications: Metrics that serve as triggers for either slowing the pace through Stage 2 or tightening modifications.
"These counties that want to move into the deeper part of the second phase have to do so in concurrence with their hospital systems, in concurrence with their boards of supervisors in the counties, and with all of these tough questions answered on testing, tracing, and surge, and protecting vulnerable communities before they move into the phase," Newsom said.
Despite California loosening some stay-at-home orders and retail closures, some counties have already started to reopen businesses ahead of the state.
RELATED: California counties say they making progress with testing ahead of reopening
Friday, some San Diego retail businesses, like bookstores, clothing stores, florists and sporting goods, will be allowed to reopen though only through curbside service.
The modifications also allow logistics and manufacturing companies that support these businesses to reopen with safety protocol.
Higher risk businesses, like hair salons and gyms, offices, and in-dining at restaurants, are expected later in Stage 2.