Open for Business: ‘Lower-Risk’ Businesses May Reopen Today

Lower-risk workplaces and businesses such as clothing stores, florists and manufacturers may reopen today with adaptations as California enters the first phase of Stage 2 of the Resilience Roadmap to reopen the state’s economy.

In this initial phase, the following businesses may open with modifications:

  • Curbside retail, including but not limited to: Bookstores, jewelry stores, toy stores, sclothing stores, shoe stores, home and furnishing stores, sporting goods stores, antique stores, music stores, florists. Note: this will be phased in, starting first with curbside pickup and delivery only until further notice.
  • Supply chains supporting the above businesses, in manufacturing and logistics sectors.

Later in Stage 2, the following businesses may open:

  • Destination retail, including shopping malls and swap meets.
  • Personal services, limited to: car washes, pet grooming, tanning facilities, and landscape gardening.
  • Office-based businesses (telework remains strongly encouraged).
  • Dine-in restaurants (other facility amenities, like bars or gaming areas, are not permitted).
  • Schools and childcare facilities.
  • Outdoor museums and open gallery spaces.

Stage 2 will be expanded gradually, with some communities moving through Stage 2 faster if they are able to show greater progress. Counties that have met the readiness criteria and worked with the California Department of Public Health can open more workplaces as outlined on the County Variance page.

Guidelines

Governor Gavin Newsom yesterday released guidelines for reopening lower-risk workplaces, advising retailers to increase pick up and delivery, encourage physical distancing and install hands-free devices; manufacturers to close breakrooms, create outdoor break areas and physically distanced seating; and warehouse delivery services to carry sanitation materials during deliveries and use personal protective equipment for each stop.

At each stage of the reopening, the businesses and industries involved are being asked to make sure they meet the safety and preparedness milestones outlined in Stage 1 by visiting https://covid19.ca.gov/roadmap/.

Before reopening, all facilities must:

  • Perform a detailed risk assessment and implement a site-specific protection plan;
  • Train employees on how to limit the spread of COVID-19, including how to screen themselves for symptoms and stay home if they have them;
  • Implement individual control measures and screenings;
  • Implement disinfecting protocols; and
  • Implement physical distancing guidelines.

Further guidance for regional variations is expected on Tuesday, May 12.

The California Chamber of Commerce is the largest, broad-based business advocate to government in California, working at the state and federal levels to influence government actions affecting all California business. As a not-for-profit, we leverage our front-line knowledge of laws and regulations to provide affordable and easy-to-use compliance products and services.