BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Governor Gavin Newsom announced a statewide stay-at-home order effective Thursday night amid growing concerns about the coronavirus.

BREAKING: Governor Gavin Newsom issues a state-wide order for Californians to shelter in place to slow spread of COVID-19.



This is effective TONIGHT. — Ashley Zavala (@ZavalaA) March 20, 2020

The governor made the announcement stressing the need to minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The order is in place until further notice, Newsom said.

The stay-at-home order does not apply to going out for essential needs such as food or medicine. Grocery stores, pharmacies and gas stations will remain open.

Newsom also said Californians can still step outside their homes for walks, walking their dogs, or exercise, but encouraged to continue social distancing, keeping a distance of at least 6 feet from others.

“If we are to be criticized at this moment, let us be criticized for taking this moment seriously,” he said.

Governor Gavin Newsom:



"We're going to keep the grocery stores open.

We're going to make sure you get medical supplies.

Your kids can still play outside

You can still pick up food at a restaurant.." — Ashley Zavala (@ZavalaA) March 20, 2020

"I don't believe the people of California need law enforcement to force them."



Governor Newsom on state-wide mandate for Californians to stay inside as cases of Coronavirus numbers rise. — Ashley Zavala (@ZavalaA) March 20, 2020

“This is not a permanent state. This is a moment in time.”

Governor Gavin Newsom says the National Guard will be out to make up for lost volunteers amid COVID-19 anxiety.



He says they will help deliver medical and other necessary supplies. — Ashley Zavala (@ZavalaA) March 20, 2020

Newsom said he activated 500 National Guard troops to help with food distributions, but only for humanitarian reasons.

The governor said the order is open ended as the pandemic situation is dynamic.

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Here are details of the governor’s order as shown from the state’s coronavirus response page:

The California State Public Health Officer and Director of the California Department of Public Health is ordering all individuals living in the State of California to stay home or at their place of residence except as needed to maintain continuity of operation of the federal critical infrastructure sectors.

How long will we stay home?

This goes into effect on Thursday, March 19, 2020. The order is in place until further notice.

What can I do? What’s open?

Essential services will remain open such as:

Gas stations

Pharmacies

Food: Grocery stores, farmers markets, food banks, convenience stores, take-out and delivery restaurants

Banks

Laundromats/laundry services

Essential state and local government functions will also remain open, including law enforcement and offices that provide government programs and services.

What’s closed?

Dine-in restaurants

Bars and nightclubs

Entertainment venues

Gyms and fitness studios

Public events and gatherings

Convention Centers

Where does this apply?

This is in effect throughout the State of California.