California Town Declares Itself a Constitutional Republic to Defy Newsom’s Covid Rules

The city council of Oroville, California, declared itself a “constitutional republic” on Tuesday, citing Governor Gavin Newsom’s coronavirus health regulations as the reason.

The resolution, which passed by a 6-1 vote, continues Oroville’s battle with the state government over the coronavirus restrictions.

According to The Guardian, “Last year, Oroville refused to enforce state requirements prohibiting indoor dining. Butte county, where Oroville is located, declined to recommend a mask mandate earlier this fall.”

Oroville’s population is roughly 20,000, and the city is 90 miles outside of the state capital, Sacramento.

Despite the city’s resolution, legal experts cast doubt about the effectiveness of the town’s efforts. According to Lisa Pruitt, a UC Davis law professor, “A municipality cannot unilaterally declare itself not subject to the laws of the state of California.” – READ MORE