More O.C. businesses to open and residents no longer required to wear face masks

County of Orange Press Conference Comments from Vice Chairman Andrew Do

It’s hard to believe that it was 106 days ago that the Chairwoman and I first declared a Local Emergency because of COVID-19. We acted swiftly and our residents took to heart our recommendations to social distance and follow good sanitary practices. I believe that Orange County did not see the surge of cases experienced in other areas because of our county measures, and the care taken by our residents and essential workers.

We have all seen the negative health, social, and economic impacts on our county from COVID-19. Please know that the Board of Supervisors, as your elected officials, has heard you, and we have advocated tirelessly to the state to reopen the local economy in a safe way.

I am happy to announce that our Health Care Agency Director and Interim County Health Officer, Dr. Clayton Chau, who has led this county through the Phase 2 of reopening, will announce today the reopening of many more businesses in our county, starting tomorrow. These include fitness facilities, museums, galleries, zoos, aquariums, bars, wineries, and family entertainment centers.

During today’s press conference, Dr. Chau, walked through an amended health order for Orange County residents and the criteria the State of California is monitoring every day.

Chau said:

“I want to be clear: This does not diminish the importance of face coverings,” he said. “I stand with the public health experts and believe wearing cloth face coverings helps to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community and save lives. By being consistent with the state, this will give our business community and individuals the ability to make the most appropriate decision for them and their situation.”

Let me emphasize that, every day, the State is looking at this county’s response to COVID-19. That means as we continue to reopen our local economy, get people back to work, and allow our residents to enjoy Orange County, we must remain vigilant. Should the spread of the virus accelerate here, and Orange County fails to meet the state’s reopening criteria, the local economy may be put in jeopardy once again. Our actions are based on data. The chart below lays out the criteria the State will evaluate as we continue to reopen our economy.

COVID-19 is still a threat here in Orange County, there’s no doubt about it. As we continue to resume normal activities, we should all do our part to continue to protect each other by keeping appropriate physical distancing, washing our hands, and wearing face coverings in public.

Orange County Vice Chairman Andrew Do represents the First District communities of Santa Ana, Garden Grove, Westminster, Fountain Valley, and Midway City. In his second term, Vice Chairman Do has reformed Orange County’s mental health services, expanded access to health care, and led efforts to combat homelessness.