LA County Closes All of its Beaches on Independence Day, Citing Covid-19

The LA County Board of Supervisors has decided to close all its beaches for the July 4th weekend.

The LA County Sheriff's Dept. said that it was surprised by the order, and would not enforce it. It is unclear whether or not the Santa Monica Police Department will enforce the order. Below is the press release from the county board of supervisors:

Today, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors announced the closure of our beaches, piers, beach bike paths, and beach access points beginning 7/3/2020 through 7/6/2020. The Malibu/Lost Hills Station Beach Team will be patrolling the beaches throughout the weekend and late into the evening. This new order makes it illegal to trespass at these locations and is punishable by law to include, but not limited to, a $1000 fine.

Please follow the LA County Health Mandates. We want to ensure the health and safety of all our residents.

The Twitteratti, naturally, had a lot to say in response. "Guess where’s there’s never been a single proven case of COVID transmission? OUTSIDE AT THE BEACH!! These politicians are so ignorant it’s unbelievable," tweeted Tom Paris.

"Was planning to go to Central Coast for the 4th, but decided not to. All the festivities have been cancelled this year, but I am afraid thousands would show up anyways," posted Karen Kovar.

"Since protesting seems to be allowed why not have everyone protest on the beach," posted Brian Hevang. "There's got to be a monument at the beach we can tear down."

Dawn Christensen tweeted: "So sorry, LASD, that you have to enforce this."

"No fireworks, no beach, no display of patriotism at all. Is this really about the virus? Outdoor activities were supposed to be the safest. I guess not…" wrote Connie Penichet Pantin