[co-author: Valerie Rodriguez]

Seyfarth Synopsis: Los Angeles, Yolo, Sacramento, and Fresno counties currently have mask “recommendations” that are stricter than the state’s guidance, recommending all people wear masks in indoor settings. As of 11:59 p.m. on July 17, 2021, Los Angeles will go a step further and implement a new mask mandate requiring people—regardless of vaccination status—to wear masks in public indoor settings.

Spike in COVID-19 Cases Prompts New Mandatory Restrictions In Los Angeles

The Los Angeles County Health Department noted that COVID-19 cases in Los Angeles County increased sevenfold since California’s June 15 reopening, and test positivity rates continue to creep up. Los Angeles County currently “strongly recommends” people “wear masks indoors in public places when you don’t know everyone’s vaccination status regardless of your vaccination status.”

In an attempt to curb recent spikes in cases, Los Angeles County announced that it will be turning that recommendation into an order. The new order will require individuals to wear face coverings in public indoor spaces—regardless of vaccination status. This new mask order is more stringent than the state’s guidance and Cal/OSHA’s ETS (which permits fully vaccinated individuals to forgo masks in many circumstances), and will go into effect at 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, July 17, 2021. Businesses in Los Angeles County who are covered by this order will need to update their mask policies.

Yolo, Sacramento, and Fresno Counties Strongly Recommend Face Coverings Indoors

In what appears to be a growing trend, Yolo County, Sacramento County, and Fresno County also strongly recommend that everyone wear face coverings in public indoor spaces (regardless of vaccination status) due to growing concerns of the rapidly spreading Delta variant and increasing COVID-19 cases. As cases rise in California, other health departments seem to be considering similar recommendations.

Workplace Solutions

As the dust settles on the new Cal/OSHA ETS, employers need to remain flexible and prepared to adhere to more stringent local requirements. And don’t forget that employers governed by the ETS who provide residential housing will also now need to provide face coverings and information to residents on when face coverings should be used in accordance with the updated local orders and guidance.

To ensure compliance with California’s patchwork of COVID regulations, please don’t hesitate to consult a Seyfarth attorney, including any member of Seyfarth’s Workplace Safety Team, with any COVID-19 related questions.