On December 25, 2021, the California stay-at-home order was lifted. During the month of December, California was on a stay-at-home order which included the closing of non-essential buildings/businesses. This was to help keep COVID-19 cases at a steady rate since cases were rising quite quickly. With the end of the stay-at-home order, new restrictions and guidelines were set in place to assist with keeping cases at a minimum. 

Current hospital regulations state that patients who should be a priority are those who are sickest and cancel or reschedule elective surgeries. This requirement was issued on January 15, 2021.  In addition, new mask requirements were implemented as well. This regulation requires masks to be worn by all students regardless of age when it comes to those who attend in person schooling. It is also recommended you double mask when going out since there is a more contagious version of the virus going around. According to an article in the New York Times, 1 in 5 people are at risk for contracting the Corona virus. Essentially, this signifies that the virus is becoming more common. 

During Super bowl weekend, Los Angeles County allowed outdoor dining but did not allow television entertainment.  According to medical authorities and experts, the more people are allowed to go out, the more likely they are to be exposed to COVID-19. Now, LA County guidelines state that outdoor dining tables should be no less than 8 feet apart from each other. A new public transportation rule has been implemented; riders must wear a mask in the vehicle at all times, if the person is not complying they will be met with a 1st offense, a $250 fine. 

Overall, these new strict requirements will possibly help lower cases while giving people a sense of normalcy. LA County has been implementing protective measures and guidelines with the intent to make the virus less contagious by restricting things like television, which can attract large crowds, limiting the amount of people allowed to be in a group setting.