December 4, 2020

New Regional Stay-at-Home Order Due to COVID-19

As you’re likely aware, COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations are rising rapidly across California, and in particular, here in Los Angeles County. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) capacities at hospitals statewide are being stretched to their limits.

In response, Governor Newsom and the California Department of Public Health have announced a new Regional Stay-at-Home Order that takes effect on Saturday, December 5. State health officials are tracking the state by five regions, with Los Angeles County included in the Southern California region. The requirements of this Regional Stay-at-Home Order will be triggered if ICU capacity drops below 15 percent in a given region.

Although no regions currently meet that threshold, it’s anticipated some will within the next week. If that happens, residents will be required to stay at home as much as possible for three weeks while also minimizing interaction with others to reduce unnecessary exposure. Operations in a number of sectors will be closed, including indoor and outdoor playgrounds, indoor recreational facilities, hair salons/barbershops, personal care services, museums/zoos, and movie theaters. Modifications will be made to other sectors such as restaurants, retail, shopping centers, and places of worship.

It’s important to note this new Regional Stay-at-Home Order does not modify existing state guidance for institutions of higher education like El Camino College. We’ll continue to operate in our current online mode for instruction, student services, and business operations. Certain academic programs that have been deemed essential by the State of California and must be offered face-to-face will continue under our existing safety protocols. Select essential personnel, such as Campus Police, Facilities, and Information Technology Systems, will also continue to work on campus and follow our established safety protocols.

To learn more about the Regional Stay-at-Home Order, you can find Governor Newsom’s announcement here and the full California Department of Public Health order here.