This Fresno councilmember thinks there should be fines for violating social distancing
Fresno City Councilmember Luis Chavez said he will propose a city ordinance to fine residents who are violating social distancing and other public health measures during the coronavirus pandemic.
The draft ordinance says violating the city’s shelter-in-place emergency order creates an “imminent threat to public health and safety.” The ordinance prohibits residents from hosting “nonessential gatherings” for activities such as parties, sports, games or professional and social purposes. It also requires businesses to direct customers to social distance.
Violators will be punished with a misdemeanor with fines up to $500 or six months in jail, according to the proposal. Violators may also face an administration citation from the city for $250 for the first offense, $500 for the second or $1,000 for the third or subsequent violation.
Chavez said the council could vote on his proposal as early as next week. The next council meeting is scheduled for April 9, but Chavez said he may consider bringing the proposal to a vote in a special meeting earlier in the week.
Chavez said other jurisdictions have put in place similar measures. Earlier this week, Kings County Supervisor Richard Valle proposed a similar measure for his county.
“I think it’s time for Fresno to get a little bit more serious because there’s people who aren’t really respecting the social distancing guidelines,” Chavez said. “We need to remind people that it’s not just about themselves, it’s about this public health crisis we have. This pandemic doesn’t discriminate.”
Council President Miguel Arias said he thinks the ordinance will have support from a council majority. He said government at every level has directed people to follow social distancing, and those guidelines should be enforced in order to “flatten the curve” of coronavirus cases.
“In a pandemic, every enforceable option must be on the table, or else the orders by president, governor and the city are simply just suggestions,” Arias said.
Karbassi’s take
However, District 2 Councilmember Mike Karbassi said he worries the city will lose support for social distancing from residents if they could face a fine.
“I just don’t think fines are going to help keep the community safe,” he said. “It’s one thing to fine a business for price gouging or not shutting down. I just don’t support fining folks. I don’t think we’re there yet.”
This story was originally published April 2, 2020 at 5:54 PM.