Is the nightmare ending? With coronavirus cases dipping and multiple states announcing plans to roll back mask mandates, we're hopeful the nation is on back on track towards recovery, reopening, and revitalized economic growth. Gov. Gavin Newsom confirmed this week that California's indoor mask mandate will end next Tuesday, February 15.
State officials also lifted mask mandates for vaccinated people attending indoor "mega-events" with more than 1,000 people. For outdoor events with more than 10,000 people, there isn't a vaccination requirement – and both masks and negative COVID-19 tests are only recommended. In other words, even the state known for having the nation's tightest pandemic restrictions is now easing up on mandates.
Dr. Barbara Ferrer, who heads Los Angeles County's Department of Public Health, announced that LA County has a ways to go before public health officials move to lift the countywide mask mandate. In fact, the county may not align with the rest of the state until April – or later.
Early on in the pandemic, BizFed's COVID-19 Economic Recovery Task Force called on local leaders to stop confusing residents with arbitrary public health guidelines that conflict with orders issued by neighboring jurisdictions.
Omicron has loosened its hold on California, vaccines for children under age 5 are around the corner, and access to COVID-19 treatments are expanding. The state's masking requirements align with science. The most effective way to maintain community trust when it comes to safety protocols is to follow the state's lead. Businesses and residents want clarity and consistent. Stubbornly adhering to outdated restrictions when the rest of the state has moved forward will only cause confusion, continue to hinder public trust, and make people less likely to voluntarily comply.
Add your logo to our coalition letter to show you support clear, consistent, science-driven pandemic guidelines. Deadline COB Friday, 2/11.
Send a one-click letter to the LA County Board of Supervisors to urge them to align with the state's decision to lift mask mandates.
Your voice will make a difference. We need as many business leaders as possible to speak up and let county officials know we don't support holding Los Angeles back.
If you have any questions regarding this issue, please contact sarah.wiltfong@bizfed.org.
In your corner,
Tracy Hernandez
BizFed Founding CEO
BizFed launched in 2008 and now unites more than 245 diverse business organizations. BizFed’s 150 investors include micro-businesses to iconic brands and institutions.