By Mary O’KEEFE

Los Angeles County representatives announced on Wednesday they are moving toward “new standards for a swift and safe reopening in alignment with the State of California guidelines.”

This means the County will be moving through the stages of reopening and will now permit faith-based in-house services, in-store shopping at low-risk retail stores, drive-in movies and other “recreation pursuits,” according to an LA County statement.

This is part of the County’s phase guidelines that include the recent reopening of beach bike paths and granting permission for car parades for graduates. There are guidelines that must be followed and that includes, according to LA County:

Faith-based organizations may resume services, with the number of congregants limited to less than 25% of the building’s capacity or a maximum of 100 people, whichever is lower.

All retail, including in- and outdoor retail malls, may open at 50% capacity.

Flea markets, swap meets and drive-in movie theaters may open.

Pools, hot tubs and saunas that are in a multi-unit residence or part of a homeowners association may open.

People can also now hold public protests in person with a limit of 25% occupancy of the area where the protest is occurring or a maximum of 100 attendees, whichever is lower.

Physical distancing is still required as is cloth face coverings and other safety protocols.

“Aligning Los Angeles County’s health orders with that of the state’s is going to provide immediate relief to our communities. This important step will enable our residents and businesses to have greater clarity and consistency as we continue to take positive steps towards reopening Los Angeles County,” said Kathryn Barger, chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

  MARK SHELTON, Mary Okeefe