‘Time to wake up,’ Newsom says, again urging Californians to stay home in coronavirus fight

Los Angeles freeways have seen far less traffic than normal as people stay at home. You want to take a walk with your dog, take a walk with your dog — just don’t do it with five or six neighbors.” Before the governor’s order was put in place late Thursday, Newsom had issued only recommendations over the last week asking all residents to practice social distancing, those 65 and older to remain at home, and bars, restaurant dining rooms and other types of businesses to shutter — demonstrating a deliberately light touch that some described as the governor easing Californians into a new way of life in preparation for more severe restrictions. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order on March 19 requiring Californians to stay at home but for “necessary activities.” “There’s certainly questions,” said Paul A. Smith, vice president of governmental affairs for the Rural County Representatives of California. Barbara Ferrer, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, said the county’s directive and Newsom’s order are “generally in agreement” on which businesses and activities are considered essential. “This may include minor revisions in the county health officer’s order in the days ahead.” The additional details on jobs deemed essential should bring some relief to business owners across the state, some of whom were unsure whether they were exempt from closure under the governor’s order.