The CA Judicial Council today enacted emergency rules referencing civil practice. One that allows for remote depositions to proceed upon the election of the deponent or the deposing party without the court reporter being present with the witness.

Emergency Rule 11. Depositions through remote electronic means

Notwithstanding any other law, including Code of Civil Procedure section 2025.310(a) and (b), and rule 3.1010(c) and (d), a party or nonparty deponent, at their election or the election of the deposing party, is not required to be present with the deposition officer at the time of the deposition.