“Pulling the Emergency Brake”, State Officials Weigh Curfews as Coronavirus Surges

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Governor Gavin Newsom announced on Monday that 41 out of 58 California counties would soon be downgraded to the most restrictive purple tier of the state’s coronavirus response system. He made the announcement as the positivity rate across California soared to 4.6 percent, up from 3 percent in the past two weeks. That rate indicates that the virus is now spreading more easily and rapidly across much of the state.

Although not as severe as the surge being experienced in the Midwest and other parts of the country, the governor said California would be “pulling the emergency brake” and taking bold action to head off the worst of the surge. Once the tier downgrades are complete, 94% of the 40 million Californians will be in counties in the most restrictive purple tier.

Calling the numbers alarming, Newsom and state health officials announced that counties will now be assigned to tiers weekly, and may drop more than one tier at a time. Local health officials are also required to set in motion new tier restrictions immediately, rather than over a three day grace period previously allowed.

Due to the rapid increase in reported coronavirus cases, the positivity rate and hospitalizations, Newsom said that his administration, in coordination with counties, is considering imposing curfews. One immediate new rule is the requirement of face coverings whenever California residents are outside of their homes, with limited exceptions.

And, like during the earlier “stay at home” orders issued by the state, Newsom is encouraging everyone to avoid unnecessary travel, stay at home whenever possible, and avoid any gatherings, including holiday get-togethers, with those outside your household group.

Here in Sonoma County, the case rate has risen to 15 per day per 100 thousand. This recent surge comes as the county has asked the state for credit for private tests that were never logged through the state’s electronic system. The county’s goal is to move from the purple tier to the red tier of California’s coronavirus response system.

Still, with cases surging all across the state, county health officer Dr. Sundari Mase said she is uncertain if California health officials will look favorably on Sonoma County’s new request. She also cautioned county residents to avoid holiday socializing with people who are not in their own household group.