Following a state order issued last night to help slow the spread of COVID-19 across California, Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer will be joined March 20 at 4:30 p.m. by Councilmember Mark Kersey, Police Chief David Nisleit and Fire-Rescue Chief Colin Stowell to provide an update to San Diegans. The state order reinforces and expands upon guidance San Diego previously put into law this week to combat the virus, such as prohibiting the operation of bars and requiring restaurants to only serve patrons with to-go or delivery orders. The City of San Diego is also developing eviction and economic relief packages.
The order requires Californians to stay at home except in limited circumstances, including caregiving, getting necessary health care, and working to support a critical industry. Exceptions also include visiting grocery stores, food banks, restaurants that offer take-out, pharmacies, laundry services, banks and gas stations. People must continue to maintain a six-foot distance to avoid transmitting the virus.
More information on the order, including what’s closed, what’s open and which industries are exempted by the state can be found on the California Covid-19 response website. The news conference will be streamed on the City of San Diego’s Facebook page and Twitter page. Social distancing protocols will be in place at the news conference to protect public health and safety.