A Letter from Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis
Dear Friends,
Throughout the winter surge, I have called on our community to come together, look out for one another, and help slow the spread of transmission. Thanks to our collective efforts, we have made significant progress – not only have we ended the surge, but yesterday officially moved to the lowest level of risk as characterized by the CDC.
As a result, beginning today at many locations across the County, including movie theaters and retail establishments, masking indoors is no longer required. However, for those who are not yet comfortable removing their masks, especially for those who are at increased risk, there is no shame in continuing to wear a mask. In fact, though no longer required, masking indoors remains a strong recommendation, and many businesses and venues may opt to continue to require masking of their customers and employees.
Additionally, bars, breweries, wineries, nightclubs, lounges, and outdoor mega events will no longer be required to verify vaccination status. However, it remains a strong recommendation that these venues continue to do so to add additional layers of protection during our post-surge period.
Even as we enjoy the new opportunities given lower transmission, I want to ensure our residents that moving forward, I will continue to make sure that our County is prepared in the event of a future variant or surge. This pandemic is by no means over, and there is more work to be done to close significant health disparities throughout the County, but it is my hope that in the months to come residents can enjoy a well-earned reprieve.
Under this modified order, indoor masking will be strongly recommended, but not required, for vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, except in high-risk settings where federal and state regulations continue to require masking, including everyone using public transit and all those in emergency shelters, health care settings, correctional and detention facilities, homeless shelters, and long-term care facilities.
Masks are required indoors at schools and childcare facilities until March 11, at which point masks will be strongly recommended for students, children, teachers, and staff regardless of vaccination status. School districts in LA County may continue to require masking at schools and during school activities, along with other appropriate safety protections for their school community.
Masking is also still required for those who exit isolation or quarantine early through day 10 of their isolation or quarantine period. As a reminder, regardless of the community risk level, people can wear a mask based on their personal preference, comfort level, and informed by their personal level of risk
Sincerely,
Hilda L. Solis
Supervisor, First District
 It’s been two years since LA County declared a state of emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 crisis has changed everything—except LA County employees’ commitment to public service.
Take a look at how the County and 50,000+ disaster service workers mobilized to confront the pandemic and meet the unprecedented needs of the public.
Yesterday, I was proud to join Mayor Garcetti, Councilwoman Rodriguez, and members of the Los Angeles Fire Department and the Department of Mental Health at the launch of a new 24/7 Therapeutic Van. This program, in partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health and the Los Angeles Fire Department, offers an alternative approach for Angelenos experiencing a mental health crisis built on trust, safety, and care.
This pilot will help to free up vital first-responder resources such as law enforcement patrols and ambulances to focus on other community safety and health priorities. Changing the standard transportation practices to a more private, less traumatizing, and less stigmatizing experience are key in lowering barriers to accessing mental health services.
 I was pleased to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of 619 Westlake Permanent Supportive Housing Development. This new housing complex will bring 78 affordable housing units and 39 permanent supportive housing for people experiencing homelessness to the Westlake community.
Many thanks to Meta Housing Corporation, the Cesar Chavez Foundation, the Los Angeles County Development Authority, the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, and many organizations and partners for bringing this much-needed project that will benefit many families.
 Interested in learning more about LA County contracting opportunities related to the American Rescue Plan Act and Care First Community Investment initiatives? Check out our new website for current solicitations and an interest form for future opportunities by clicking below.
Wonder takes flight at the museum! Walk among beautiful butterflies in the seasonal Butterfly Pavilion at the LA County Natural History Museum. This springtime exhibition features hundreds of butterflies, colorful native plants, and plenty of natural light to help you see these creatures shimmer. With lots of flight space and a variety of resting spots, come get one of the best views in Los Angeles of these amazing insects.
The seasonal exhibition starts on March 18 and will be open until September 5, open Wednesday to Monday, from 10am - 4:30pm.
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For the whole month of March, you can adopt a cat for only $13 through the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control's "March Meowness" campaign, in partnership with the ASPCA. All adoptions include microchips, vaccinations, and spay/neuter!
Schedule an appointment to adopt a new furry friend today by clicking here.
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