Governor Newsom announced his
Beyond the Blueprint plan for reopening California and
lifting nearly all statewide coronavirus restrictions on June 15
– if vaccine supply remains sufficient and hospitalization rates
remain low.
Citing accelerating vaccine efforts and 20 million doses
administered to date, as well as the Biden Administration’s
promise of increased vaccine supply, the Governor said it was
time to “return to a sense of normalcy” but also that it was
important to not “spike the ball” too soon as factors such as
virus variants, schools reopening, and more gatherings and events
could result in a dreaded “fourth surge.”
“We’re interested in evidence…and we’re very sober about this,”
said the Governor, when asked about possible hurdles in advance
of the June 15 target date for lifting most coronavirus
restrictions.
All Californians are still strongly encouraged to wear masks, get
vaccinated, and follow all guidance to continue the state’s
progress in reducing cases. In fact, the Governor has pledged to
keep the statewide mask mandate, including for schools, in place
even after June 15. Targeted testing and vaccination requirements
will also remain for some businesses and industries, and counties
retain the authority to impose stricter guidelines or orders to
protect the public’s health.
Additionally, counties continue to play a key role in vaccinating
all eligible people aged 16 and older and maintaining core
contact tracing and outreach efforts – all of which are
imperative to ensure containment of the virus.
