HomeMy WebLinkAbout05.17.21 Mask use update
From:Pickett, Andy
To:Alpert, Bruce;Bennett, Robin;Clerk of the Board;Connelly, Bill;Cook, Holly;Cook, Robin;Kimmelshue, Tod;
Lucero, Debra;Paulsen, Shaina;Pickett, Andy;Ring, Brian;Ritter, Tami;Rodas, Amalia;Sweeney, Kathleen;
Teeter, Doug
Subject:Mask use update
Date:Monday, May 17, 2021 3:48:53 PM
Board Members,
Last week the CDC updated their mask use guidelines to say that for most situations vaccinated
individuals do not need to wear masks outdoors or indoors (the exceptions are centered around
situations of unusual physical closeness and/or confined spaces). These guidelines are in clear
conflict of California guidelines. Today the State issued a statement (see below), which says that
California will stick to its own timeline and keep the mask mandate for another month. We expect
the mandate to be lifted on June 15.
This means that the Board meetings of May 25 and June 8 will continue to require masks of
everyone. On June 22 we’ll have our first meeting where vaccinated individuals will be able to enter
without masks. Unvaccinated individuals will still need to be masked. That being said, as of right
now, the only time where proof of vaccination is contemplated is for larger scale, higher risk events,
which I’m not sure Board meetings would qualify. Therefore, vaccination status by the public may
well be by the honor system.
I’m sure that more will develop between now and June 15. I’ll keep you updated.
State of California
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY
Statement from California Health and Human Services
Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly on Mask Guidance
“California has made amazing progress in our fight against COVID-19. With
more than 34 million vaccines administered, we now have among the lowest
case and positivity rates in the nation.
“On June 15, California plans to implement the CDC’s guidelines around
masking to allow fully vaccinated Californians to go without a mask in most
indoor settings. This four-week period will give Californians time to prepare for
this change while we continue our relentless focus on delivering vaccines,
particularly in underserved communities.
“We urge all Californians to get vaccinated to ensure that infection and
hospitalization rates remain low across the state and that we can all return to
the activities we love.
“Until June 15, when California plans to fully reopen the economy, California will
keep our existing guidance around masks in place.
“As of May 3, 2021, face coverings are no longer required outdoors except at
crowded events, and for unvaccinated people, when physical distancing cannot
be maintained.
“In indoor settings outside of one's home, including public transportation and
schools, face coverings continue to be required regardless of vaccination
status.”
For more information, visit covid19.ca.gov.
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Máximo A. Pickett
Chief Administrative Officer
Butte County Administration
25 County Center Drive, Suite 200, Oroville, CA 95965
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