SACRAMENTO – Senator Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel) issued the following statement after Governor Newsom announced today that he is closing all beaches in Orange County:
“I have supported most of the Governor’s efforts to manage California’s COVID-19 response, but I strongly disagree with today’s order targeting only Orange County. At a time when California is granting early release to high-risk sex offenders and other dangerous inmates due to COVID-19 concerns, the implicit threat to punish beachgoers and surfers who violate the order is absurd.
“Most Orange County residents have been following public health guidance regarding COVID-19 despite the significant economic and emotional stress it has placed on many of them. They deserve better from the Governor than this punitive order. Outdoor recreation, including those at beaches, is good for mental health. Responsible beach recreation should continue to be allowed as long as people are physically distancing and taking other precautions.”
