PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Governor Jay Inslee and other King County officials addressed the media on Monday, providing details on the temporary statewide shutdown of restaurants and bars.
Washington Gov. Inslee said Sunday night that he would order all bars, restaurants, entertainment and recreation facilities to temporarily close to fight the spread of coronavirus in the state with by far the most deaths in the U.S. from the disease.
“I will sign a statewide executive proclamation temporarily shutting down restaurants, bars and entertainment and recreational facilities,” said Gov. Inslee. “We need very strong measures to reduce the extent and pace of this.
“Normal is not in our game plan.”
The closure will extend for two weeks with the possibility to extend as needed.
“These decisions are not taken lightly. There are enormous economic implications and social disruptions. In the days to come we will attempt to do everything we can to help minimize and help mitigate some of these challenges,” he said.
“But today we know we are doing this for a simple reason — to save the lives of our loved ones in Washington.”
Inslee said the ban wouldn’t apply to grocery stores or pharmacies and that restaurants could continue take-out and delivery services. Other retail outlets will be required to designate an officer to come up with a social distancing plan for their business.
Day care and other child care option will remain open, as well as school-based meal programs.
The ban is to be issued via emergency proclamation Monday afternoon. Inslee also revised his ban on events to prohibit gatherings of 50 or more people. Previously the size limit was more than 250.
“Just stay home unless it is absolutely necessary to go out.”
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The governor addressed the media over the phone on Monday, starting at 11 a.m.
This is a developing story.