California was the first state to implement lockdowns, and it will be one of the first states to fully reopen (following Texas, Missouri, Alabama and West Virginia). Starting on June 15, businesses can re-open at full capacity.
CNN reports the reason for the full reopening is due to falling infection rates and low hospitalizations in the state. California is set to surpass 20 million doses today. The state has the lowest positivity rate in the country, at 1.7%.
State officials note that "necessary precautions" will be taken if they notice a spike of cases in any city. The mask mandate would still be in effect, especially in outdoor settings.
"This disease is as deadly as it's ever been," California governor Gavin Newsom said in a statement. "The only thing that we have done is suppress the spread because of the number of vaccines that have been administered and because of mask-wearing."
He noted "We will need to remain vigilant, and continue the practices that got us here — wearing masks and getting vaccinated — but the light at the end of this tunnel has never been brighter."
"Limited capacity" indoor shows can begin as soon as April 15th.
