Chico State Announces New Health and Safety Guidelines for On-Campus Events

To meet new California Department of Public Health (CDPH) health and safety guidelines, Chico State has updated its policies for large indoor athletic, theatre, music and performing arts events occurring on campus. Effective immediately, attendees age 2 or older will be required to show proof of full vaccination (at least two weeks after last dose) or a negative COVID-19 test (via a PCR test within two days or antigen test within one day of the event).

This policy applies to all athletic events at Acker Gymnasium and all Chico Performances, North State Symphony and School of the Arts events at Laxson Auditorium. In addition, Chico Performances will require the same verification for ticketed events at the Arts Recital Hall, Harlan Adams Theater and other venues on campus. The first events taking place under these new guidelines are the men’s and women’s basketball games against Cal State San Marcos on Thursday, January 13.

To meet the vaccine requirement, attendees must show their COVID-19 vaccination card, a digital record that includes a QR code or a digital image along with a photo ID matching the name on the card or screen. Attendees who cannot provide proof of vaccination should bring a photo ID and either a printout or photo of their negative COVID-19 test taken within the 48-hour (PCR tests) or 24-hour (antigen tests) window before the event start time. People ages 17 and under accompanied by an adult will not be required to show a photo ID. No at-home tests will be accepted for entry, and self-attestation will not be accepted as a mode of verification.

“The policy is designed to keep our entire community safe during a time when COVID-19 cases are rising sharply,” said Mike Guzzi, director of Chico State’s pandemic management team. “Though our students and employees primarily make up who is on campus on a regular basis, we are part of a larger community within the city of Chico and Butte County, and we know we have a responsibility to ensure our guests are as safe as possible when attending events on campus.”

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to allow additional time for verification and entry. No COVID-19 testing opportunities will be available for event attendees on site. Prior to arrival, guests should have their negative COVID-19 results completed and in hand.

The University’s indoor mask requirement remains in effect for all events and all Chico State indoor spaces. Masks must fit snugly against the side of the face and completely cover the nose and mouth at all times. Masks must be worn at all times unless actively eating or drinking. Gaiters, bandanas, and coverings with exhalation vents are prohibited. For the safety of everyone, guests unable to wear proper face coverings will not be admitted into the venue.

Patrons are encouraged to visit the University Box Office website before attending ticketed campus events for the most up-to-date COVID-19 attendance policies.