It was announced Thursday evening, March 19, that California was ordering the entire state to implement the “Stay at home” or “Shelter in Place” directive that multiple counties throughout the state ━ including Santa Cruz ━ put into effect on Tuesday.
Gavin Newsom
“We need to bend the curve in the state of California,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said at the evening press conference.
The intent of the state-wide order is to reduce the speed of the spread of COVID-19. More than 120 new cases were diagnosed a 24-hour period, according to a letter Newsom sent to President Trump Wednesday.
“The state is many parts, but at the end of the day, we are one body,” Newsom said. “There is a recognition of our interdependence that requires, of this moment, that we direct a state-wide order for people to stay at home.”
The state-wide order is open-ended, and is immediately in effect until further notice.
Like the county directives, essential services throughout the state will remain open, including (but not limited to)
- Gas stations
- Pharmacies
- Food: Grocery stores, farmers markets, food banks, convenience stores, take-out and delivery restaurants
- Banks
- Laundromats/laundry services
Residents may continue to use these facilities when necessary, but are asked to maintain the 6-foot social distancing whenever possible, and to stay at home the rest of the time, except to do such things as outdoor exercise, walk dogs, etc.
Restaurants that provide delivery or drive-thru service will remain open, but dining areas will remain closed. Other types of businesses affected include:
- Bars and nightclubs
- Entertainment venues
- Gyms and fitness studios
- Public events and gatherings
- Convention Centers
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Click here to read the full Executive Order
Visit covid19.ca.gov for more details.