What to know about Governor Jay Inslee's new COVID-19 restrictions

In response to increasing daily COVID-19 case counts and average cases in the state doubling over the past two weeks, Washington Governor Jay Inslee has announced a four-week statewide set of restrictions.

The restrictions will take effect Monday, November 16 at 11:59 pm and will remain in effect until Monday, December 14.

“We understand that this is both an economic and a public health crisis. We do not take lightly the impact these restrictions will have on local businesses, many of which have already had a very difficult year. You are not alone, and we will continue to provide supports,” Governor Inslee said during a press conference Sunday.

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Indoor gatherings with people outside the household will be prohibited unless they quarantine for 14 days prior to the gathering, or for seven days prior to the gathering and receive a negative COVID-19 test result no more than 48 hours prior to the gathering. Outdoor gatherings are limited to no more than five people.

For long-term care facilities, only outdoor visits will be allowed. Indoor visits may be permitted for essential support persons or end-of-life care.

Religious services will be limited to 25% indoor capacity or 200 people, whichever is less. Choirs, bands, and ensembles are prohibited from performing.

Wedding and funeral ceremonies can go on with limited attendance, but receptions of any size are prohibited indoors.

Indoor service will be closed at fitness facilities and gyms, and youth and adult amateur sporting activities are limited to outdoors only with facial coverings. Bowling alleys, museums, zoos, aquariums, and movie theaters will be closed for indoor services.

Restaurants and bars will be closed for indoor service, with to-go services and restricted outdoor dining allowed. In-store retail, grocery stores, and personal services are limited to 25% of occupancy.

Restaurant restrictions will take effect Wednesday, November 18 at 12:01 am.

Governor Jay Inslee’s full proclamation can be read here.