{"id":25275,"date":"2020-05-25T13:41:03","date_gmt":"2020-05-25T20:41:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/?p=25275"},"modified":"2020-05-25T13:41:03","modified_gmt":"2020-05-25T20:41:03","slug":"counties-statewide-can-reopen-places-of-worship-for-religious-services-and-retail-stores","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lapost.us\/?p=25275","title":{"rendered":"Counties Statewide Can Reopen Places of Worship for Religious Services and Retail Stores"},"content":{"rendered":"

Modifications Required to Protect Californians against COVID-19<\/p>\n

<\/em>Places of Worship Should Limit Attendance to 25% of Total Capacity
\nor a Maximum of 100 Attendees<\/p>\n

Retail Guidance for In-Store Shopping, Already in Place for Certain Counties,
\nNow Applies Statewide<\/em><\/p>\n

SACRAMENTO \u2013 The California Department of Public Health today announced the statewide reopening of places of worship for religious services and in-store retail shopping. Modifications are required to keep Californians safe and limit the spread of COVID-19. Subject to approval by county public health departments, all retail stores can reopen for in-store shopping under previously issued guidelines. Under new guidance, places of worship can hold religious services and funerals that limit attendance to 25% of a building\u2019s capacity \u2013 or up to 100 attendees, whichever is lower \u2013 upon approval by the county department of public health.<\/p>\n

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While the vast majority of large gatherings remain prohibited under the state\u2019s stay-at-home order,\u00a0the Department of Public Health has released\u00a0guidelines for in-person protests<\/a>\u00a0and events designed for political expression. The guidance limits attendance to 25% of an area\u2019s maximum occupancy \u2013 or up to 100 attendees.<\/p>\n

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\u201cTogether, our actions have helped bend the curve and reduce infections in our state. As sectors continue to open with changes that aim to lower risk, remember that COVID-19 is still present in our communities,\u201d said Dr. Sonia Angell, State Public Health Officer and Director of the California Department of Public Health. \u201cAs more of us may be leaving our homes, keeping physical distance, wearing face coverings in public, and washing your hands frequently are more important than ever to help protect yourself and those around you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The new\u00a0guidance for religious services and cultural ceremonies<\/a>\u00a0encourages organizations to continue online services and activities, including to protect individuals who are most at risk for more severe COVID-19, including older adults and people with specific medical conditions.<\/p>\n

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To reopen for religious services and funerals, places of worship must:<\/p>\n

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