Inslee to offer details Monday on statewide shutdown of restaurants, bars and limit on size of gatherings

Gov. Jay Inslee will give more details today on his statewide shutdown of restaurants and bars due to the outbreak of 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Sunday night, Inslee also ordered limits on all gatherings in Washington state of more than 50 people.

“Given the explosion of COVID-19 in our state and globally, I will sign a statewide emergency proclamation tomorrow to temporarily shut down restaurants, bars and entertainment and recreational facilities,” Inslee said in Sunday’s announcement.

“Restaurants will be allowed to provide take-out and delivery services but no in-person dining will be permitted.

“The ban will not apply to grocery stores and pharmacies,” he added. “Other retail outlets will have reduced occupancy. Additionally, all gatherings with over 50 participants are prohibited and all gatherings under 50 participants are prohibited unless previously announced criteria for public health and social distancing are met.

“These are very difficult decisions, but hours count here and very strong measures are necessary to slow the spread of the virus. I know there will be significant economic impacts to all our communities and we are looking at steps to help address those challenges,” Inslee said.

Inslee said more details on the shutdown will be announced Monday.

Tags: