SACRAMENTO (CBS SF/AP) — Stating that the people of California need to do more in the face of the growing coronavirus pandemic, Gov. Gavin Newsom Thursday evening announced a statewide stay-at-home order to reduce the threat of COVID-19.
Newsom’s office had already hinted at the weighty nature of what the governor would be talking about, noting that a “major announcement” would be made during a 6:30 p.m. address on the state’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
“Our fate and future is inside of us. We’re not victims of circumstance,” Newsom said. “We can make decisions to meet moments. This is a moment we need to make tough decisions.”
Newsom continued: “A state as large as ours — a nation-state — is many parts. But, at the end of the day, we’re one body. And there’s a recognition of our interdependence that requires of this moment that we direct a statewide order for people to stay at home.”
The order matches the one that went into effect for the Bay Area earlier this week, shutting down all but essential businesses including grocery stores, takeout and delivery restaurants, banks, gas stations and laundromats and banks.