Dr. Pamela Hymel, chief medical officer for Disney Park, sent out a statement that slammed California Gov. Gavin Newsom for not allowing Disneyland to reopen.
We absolutely reject the suggestion that reopening the Disneyland Resort is incompatible with a health-first approach. The fact is, that since March we have taken a robust science-based approach to responsibly reopening our parks and resorts across the globe. Our health and safety protocols were developed in consultation with epidemiologists and data scientists, and after considering guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and experts in local government and health agencies. All of our other theme parks both in the United States and around the world have been allowed to open on the strength of our proven ability to operate with responsible health and safety protocols.
— Disney Parks News (@DisneyParksNews) October 8, 2020
Hymel’s statement came in response to the governor’s rejection of reopening guidelines, which he released on Wednesday, Deadline reports.
Newsom said theme parks cannot reopen yet as there needs to be better data.
- “We don’t anticipate in the immediate term any of these larger parks opening until we see more stability in terms of the data.”
- “We feel there’s no hurry to put out guidelines, and we continue to work with the industry.”
Earlier this week, guidelines for Disneyland to reopen reportedly leaked online. The Orange County Register recently reported the proposed reopening guidelines included three requirements:
- Disneyland must have 25% capacity.
- Disneyland must limit guests to those living within a 120-mile radius.
- Disneyland can reopen once the county reaches “minimal” risk level.
The decision from Newsom also impacts theme parks like Universal Studios and Knott’s Berry Farm.