On July 24, 2020, the State of California released a “COVID-19 Employer Playbook” to guide employers in planning and preparing for the safe reopening of their businesses. It combines guidance from various California agencies to ensure that employers have the tools they need to plan for a safe and clean workplace. Notably, the

Clarisse C. Petersen
Clarisse C. Petersen is a principal in the Orange County, California, office of Jackson Lewis P.C. She counsels and defends employers in all aspects of employment law, including wrongful termination, harassment, discrimination, retaliation, defamation, disability-related claims, and wage-and-hour violations.
Clarisse is a fierce advocate for employers and strives to connect with her clients to understand their story, their people, and their vision—which, in turn, allows her to craft thoughtful and practical solutions tailored to the client’s goals. Whenever possible, her advice to clients weaves in the same core values and collaborative environment that Jackson Lewis thrives on to this day.
Clarisse is an experienced litigator with a proven track record of success both inside and outside the courtroom. She has secured defense verdicts at trial and arbitration, achieved summary judgment or adjudication on her cases, and resolved contentious disputes for less than the client’s authority or potential exposure.
Statewide Closures and More Counties Added to State Monitoring List
On July 13, 2020, the State of California announced that, due to the surge in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, the following industries must close indoor operations on a statewide basis:
- Restaurants
- Wineries and tasting rooms
- Movie theaters
- Family entertainment centers
- Zoos and museums
- Cardrooms
Bars, breweries, and pubs are required to close all operations (indoor…