California Ends Strict Virus Restrictions as New Cases Fall The state is returning to a tiered system of rules tied to the prevalence of the coronavirus in each county. Gov. Gavin Newsom has been under pressure from business owners. Carmen Silva wiped down patio chairs outside of Baracoa Cuban Cafe in Los Angeles on Monday. Local leaders can now allow restaurants to resume indoor dining.Credit...Kendrick Brinson for The New York Times [Sign up , our daily newsletter from the Golden State.] OAKLAND, Calif. — Facing swelling political pressure and numerous lawsuits by businesses forced to shut down, Gov. Gavin Newsom of California on Monday lifted a strict stay-at-home order and handed to local authorities greater control over whether restaurants, hair salons and other commerce could reopen.