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California

These resources – like the public health crisis itself – are constantly evolving and are only current as to the date of publication. This page was last updated on September 25, 2020.

For more up-to-date information on the relief programs available in California, we recommend that you visit the Secretary of State's website or the California COVID-19 portal.

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Description of Program and Relief

Guidance Regarding Reopening Certain Businesses and Manufacturers

On April 28, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom announced a four-stage reopening plan. Stage 1 was governed by the statewide stay-at-home order, which went into effect on March 19, 2020. On May 4, 2020, Governor Newsom announced that, based on the state’s progress in meeting certain metrics required for reopening, the state would begin moving into Stage 2 on May 8, 2020.

On May 8, 2020, California began moving into Stage 2 by allowing Californians to gradually reopen some lower-risk businesses and public spaces, with new regulations in place. In this stage, certain “non-essential” retailers, such as book, clothing, music, and sporting goods stores, can reopen, but with curbside pickup only. Additionally, some manufacturers can also reopen, as long as workers can be properly distanced and other regulations are met. Dine-in restaurants, bars, shopping malls, offices, and schools remain closed to the public. For detailed industry-specific guidance, see here.

Before reopening, all facilities should: (1) perform a detailed risk assessment and implement a site-specific protection plan; (2) 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; (3) implement individual control measures and screenings; (4) implement disinfecting protocols; and (5) implement physical distancing guidance.

Under the Governor’s plan, counties can reopen more quickly than the state order allows, so long as the counties’ plans meet certain criteria. Similarly, regions with stricter restrictions, like the Bay Area, can keep those restrictions in place.

Government or Lead Agency

California Office of the Governor

Dates Available

Effective as of May 8, 2020.

Eligibility Requirements/Restrictions

For industry-specific guidance on reopening, see here.

Application Deadlines (If Applicable)

N/A

Contact for More Information

For general information about state COVID-19 resources, call 1-833-422-4255 (1-833-4CA4ALL).

List of Additional Information

For Governor Newsom’s Press Release on Stage 2 of reopening, see here.

For information on the modifications to the stay home order, see here.

For California’s roadmap to reopening and industry-specific information, see here and here.


© 2021 Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP. This does not constitute legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. In some jurisdictions, this publication may be considered attorney advertising. Past representations are no guarantee of future outcomes.

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