Rep. Takano Statement Opposing Riverside County Supervisors’ Proposal to Rescind County’s COVID-19 Health Orders
Riverside, CA – Today, Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.) released this statement expressing opposition to Riverside County Supervisors’ proposal to reverse certain COVID-19 public health orders mandated by Riverside County Public Health Officer, Dr. Cameron Kaiser:
“I am concerned by the Supervisors’ proposal to rescind the COVID-19 public health orders made by Dr. Cameron Kaiser to keep our communities safe. Any actions related to public health made during this pandemic without consultation with and approval by scientific and medical experts are dangerous.
“In the background provided for this proposal, the Supervisors stated having worked with their Economic Recovery Task Force to devise plans to reopen businesses. However, this task force is comprised of business leaders, not scientific or medical experts. While I’m sensitive to the eagerness of getting back to normal, we must ensure that any plans to reopen our local economy are supported by scientific and medical data proving that reopening businesses will not pose a danger to workers and families.
“In order to successfully reopen our economy and resume our daily lives, our community must be confident in the County’s response and know that proper precautions are in place to protect public health. This virus is deadly and contagious, and without proper safeguards, lives could be at risk.
“I oppose this proposal and urge the Supervisors to reconsider it. Riverside County continues to be one of the counties in California that has been most affected by COVID-19, with the highest number of cases. Dr. Kaiser’s orders, and the cooperation of Riverside County residents, have helped prevent a surge in our healthcare system and helped us avoid a deadly worst-case scenario, so far.
“We must do everything we can to protect the health and well-being of our community. Reopening our economy is a top concern, but we must remember that there would be a bigger economic loss with a resurgent virus, and a bigger loss for our communities if more people fall ill from COVID-19 due to premature decision-making.”
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