California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the state will begin gradually allowing clothing stores, florists, bookstores and sporting goods shops to open their doors after a nearly seven-week coronavirus shutdown. Newsom said the threat of the virus spreading had leveled off to a point where certain retail businesses could again serve customers starting as early as Friday, but with curbside pickups and other restrictions. Requirements for operation will be released Thursday and Newsom warned that signs the virus has started spreading rapidly might force him to reimpose tighter restrictions. Newsom had unveiled a four-stage system for fully reopening the state. His announcement means the state will enter Stage 2. The next stage could be months away and include opening hair salons, gyms, movie theaters and allowing in-person church services. Stage 4 would be the end of all restrictions and resumption of high-risk activities like concerts and sports competitions with fans. The relaxed rules coming later in the week do not apply to restaurants, which have been limited to takeout, or offices, shopping malls and schools.
