Statement by Supervisor Barger Regarding Announcement by the State on Updated COVID-19 Guidance

Supervisor Kathryn Barger issued the following statement regarding the announcement by Dr. Mark Ghaly, California Health and Human Services Secretary, regarding the proposed changes to the COVID-19 guidance to take effect on June 15

“I am pleased that the California Health and Human Services Department has provided an update regarding the proposed changes to the COVID-19 protocols that will likely begin on June 15. These updates include:

• Elimination of capacity limits and physical distancing requirements for businesses.
• Alignment with the Centers for Disease Control on the guidance for masking and travel.
• Recommendations for vaccine verification to help protect and support businesses and organizations.

“I support full alignment with the State on this guidance and appreciate that today’s announcement will provide ample time for our businesses, organizations and residents to prepare for these changes. In Los Angeles County, we have fully vaccinated approximately 47% of our population and continue to make the vaccine available and easily accessible for all our residents – including those in hard to reach communities. We are seeing real results in the significantly diminished case counts and the lack of community transmission. I am confident in the State and Federal scientific experts developing these recommendations, knowing that this is a safe next step for our communities.

“We have weathered the storm and I am hopeful that this finally signals our return to normalcy.”