Press release from the Humboldt County Joint Information Center:

The state has authorized some Humboldt County businesses with lower COVID-19 exposure risk to begin reopening on Friday, May 8. Qualifying businesses must have modifications in place to protect the health and safety of both employees and customers.

The first stage of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s four-stage reopening plan has been in place since the statewide Stay-at-Home Order took effect on March 16. Stage Two will begin Friday with what the Governor calls a “soft opening” to gradually reopen certain businesses. This first part of Stage Two will allow the reopening of most retail businesses that are able to serve customers curbside or through delivery as well as logistics and manufacturing supports for retail businesses.

According to the state’s plan, businesses that can reopen on Friday, May 8, with modifications in place include:

  • Most retail businesses (may open for curbside or delivery only)
    • Florists, toy stores, sporting goods stores, bookstores and clothing stores are a few examples
    • Shopping malls and seated dining services cannot reopen per the state Stay-at-Home Order
  • Businesses that provide logistical and manufacturing support for retail businesses.

Businesses that plan to reopen on Friday, May 8, should have the following measures in place prior to reopening:

  • Wearing and requiring facial coverings for all employees and customers in accordance with the Order of the Health Officer
  • Allowing for six feet of social distancing at all times for employees and customers
  • Providing access to handwashing and hand sanitizer for employees and customers
  • Frequently cleaning and sanitizing the facility following CDC reopening guidelines
  • Adhering to a plan to identify and exclude sick employees from the workplace.

Additional measures, including certification of safety plans, will be required as the state modifies the Stay-at-Home Order and as the county moves further into Stage Two.

The Humboldt County Joint Information Center will release information regarding the certification process based on direction from the state on Stage Two implementation.

For the most recent information about COVID-19, visit CDC.gov or CDPH.ca.gov. For local information, visit humboldtgov.org, call 707-441-5000 or email covidinfo@co.humboldt.ca.us.