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Disneyland, Theaters, Casinos Exempted From Coronavirus Ban On Large Gatherings

ANAHEIM (CBSLA/AP) - Disneyland and other large theme parks will not required to comply with California Gov. Gavin Newsom's order against large gatherings to counter the spread of COVID-19.

Newsom said California public health officials issued an updated policy saying "non-essential" gatherings such as sporting events, concerts and conferences should be postponed or canceled until at least the end of March.

At a news conference Thursday, Gavin said Disneyland, Magic Mountain, Universal Studios Hollywood, and other large theme parks, theaters and casinos are exempted from his order against gatherings of 250 people or more due to coronavirus due to the "complexity of their unique circumstances", but discussions remain ongoing.

Hours after Newsom's statement, however, Disney announced both Disneyland and California Adventure parks will be closed starting March 14.

The governor also suggested guidance on limiting large gatherings is likely to extend beyond March and will affect pro baseball games.

While he acknowledged California's legal authority is limited when it comes to enforcement, Newsom said he expects people to adopt the recommendations.

There are now a total of four coronavirus-related deaths  and nearly 200 cases statewide, Newsom said. He is calling on the federal government to make more COVID-19 testing kits available.

(© Copyright 2020 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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