Can my church open during Covid-19 in California?
California is no exception to the rule regarding dealing with COVID-19. As an insurance agent who specializes in church insurance, my phone has not stopped ringing for the past seven months with different questions related to COVID-19.
Initially, the churches would ask if we could stay open, and then they asked what would happen if we intentionally defied the order. Now, pastors are asking what steps we need to take to be able to re-open.
My answer to these questions is very simple. It is important that you
- Comply with the order of your State.
- Make sure you check with your local county guidelines.
- Make sure your City has no additional guidelines you will need to comply with.
For instance, the state of California has created a designated website specifically dealing with Covid-19. This website is: www.covid19.ca.gov. This would be your first stop to obtain up-to-date information on your State guidelines.
Next let’s take Los Angeles County public health department. They have a list of items they spell out for different organizations to ensure they follow. In addition, they have a Safety Compliance Certification program for both business owners and employees. It is designed to help businesses and their employees comply with the current guidelines to help keep everyone healthy.
Lastly, because the city of Long Beach has its own Health and Human Services Department, they have its guidelines to follow.
As you can see, this only complicates the matter depending on where you live and how many guidelines you may have to follow. Your Church may only need to review the State of California and follow them, or you could live in Long Beach and need to follow all 3 (State, County, & City).
Whether you agree or disagree with all or some of the guidelines being spelled out by your local government, it is important that we take the steps needed to keep our church family healthy and do our part. If you have any questions, please feel free to call us, and we can discuss your questions further.
Integrity Now Insurance Brokers, Inc.
562-606-1030
