New restrictions on restaurants and businesses announced; relief packages in development

Governor Jay Inslee today announced new restrictions on indoor dining, bowling centers, business meetings and others as we enter a “third wave” of the coronavirus pandemic. Inslee announced in a press conference that restaurants and bars are limited to outdoor service, delivery or takeout only — no indoor dining service is allowed until Dec. 14. Retail and grocery stores are limited to 25% occupancy. Religious services have a recommended cap of 25% or 200 people, whichever is less. Inslee said that some $50 million in grants and loans will be available before the end of the year to help the impact these restrictions will have on businesses, promising to get it out “as swiftly as we can.” This announcement does not impact K-12 education or early childcare. These restrictions are intended to offset rising coronavirus cases and prevent hospitals from becoming overcrowded.

More details on these restrictions can be found here.