Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Tuesday that California’s color-coded tier system for reopening will be abandoned on June 15, provided current public health statistics continue to trend in the right direction.
The move "to fully reopen" the state's economy marks a significant milestone in the state’s continuing battle with the coronavirus pandemic.
It does, however, hinge on two criteria: If vaccine supply remains accessible for those ages 16 and older who want to be vaccinated and if hospitalization rates "are stable and low," and continue to be. "Everyday activities will be allowed and businesses can open with common-sense risk reduction measures," a release from the state’s Department of Public Health explained.
The entire state will move out of the tier system as a whole.
However, health officials will monitor California’s COVID-19 hospitalization rates, vaccine access and vaccine efficacy against variants, "with the option to revisit the June 15 date if needed."
Masking requirements will remain in place.
"With more than 20 million vaccines administered across the state, it is time to turn the page on our tier system and begin looking to fully reopen California’s economy," the governor said. "We can now begin planning for our lives post-pandemic. We will need to remain vigilant, and continue the practices that got us here - wearing masks and getting vaccinated - but the light at the end of this tunnel has never been brighter."
Per the state's updated guidance, large-scale indoor events like conventions will be allowed "with testing or vaccination verification requirements."
Just last week, health officials announced California would allow indoor concerns, theater performances and other private gatherings starting April 15. People would have to show proof of vaccination or a negative test in order to enter, with attendance limited based on a county's tier assignment.
"California has made incredible progress controlling the spread of COVID-19 by staying home, masking, and getting vaccines out quickly to Californians in every corner of the state, including in those communities hardest hit by this pandemic," said Dr. Mark Ghaly, California Health and Human Services Secretary.
The state has administered over 20 million COVID-19 vaccine doses as of Tuesday. Almost 59,000 Californians have died from complications due to COVID-19, with 3,583,830 confirmed coronavirus cases in total.
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