Dear WFSE members,

In order to slow the spread of increasing COVID-19 cases in our state, Governor Inslee has made the difficult decision—in coordination with medical experts—to implement restrictions effective Monday, Nov. 16 at midnight (12:01 a.m. Tuesday). 

Please do your part to help flatten the curve. Each and every one of us plays a critical role in stopping the spread of COVID-19 in our communities and our worksites. COVID-19 does not care about your political affiliation, whether you live in a rural or metropolitan area, whether you’re rich or poor, young or old. It’s a deadly disease that is overwhelming our medical facilities and may prevent Washingtonians from getting routine medical care if we don’t act.

Whether you’re working from home or on site, we appreciate your commitment to ensuring residents get the services they need during this difficult time. Our union will continue to advocate for policies that promote public health, including telework options and proper PPE.

If you have evidence that your employer is not adhering to public health guidance, please contact the WA Dept. of Health and our union’s Member Action Center.

On Sunday morning, Gov. Inslee announced these closings and restrictions:

• Indoor social gatherings with people from outside your household are prohibited.
• Outdoor social gatherings should be limited to 5 people from outside your household. 
• Restaurants and bars are closed for indoor service. Outdoor dining and to-go service is permitted. Outdoor dining must follow the outdoor dining restriction. Table size limited to 5 for outdoor dining.  These restaurant restrictions go into effect at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, November 18.
• Fitness facilities and gyms are closed for indoor operations. Outdoor fitness classes may still occur but they are limited by the outdoor gathering restrictions. Drop off childcare closed.
• Bowling Centers, museums, zoos, aquariums, movie theaters are closed for indoor service.
• Drive-in movie theaters are still permitted and must follow the current drive-in movie theater guidance.
• Wedding and Funerals receptions are prohibited. Ceremonies are limited to no more than 30 people.
• In-store retail limited to 25% indoor occupancy and must close any common/congregate non-food related seating areas. Food court indoor seating is closed.
• Religious services limited to 25% indoor occupancy no more than 200 people, whichever is fewer. No choir, band, or ensemble shall perform during the service.  Soloists are permitted to perform.  Facial coverings must be worn at all times by congregation members and no congregational singing.
• Professional Services are required to mandate that employees work from home when possible, and to close offices to the public. If they remain open, occupancy is restricted to 25% and personal services are limited to 25% of maximum occupancy as well.
• Long-term Care Facilities outdoor visits only. Exceptions can be made for essential support person and end-of-life care.  
• Youth (school and non-school) and adult sporting activities limited to outdoor only for intrateam practices, masks required for athletes.

To read more about these restrictions, visit Governor Inslee’s website here.

Stay tuned to WFSE.org and our COVID-19 Response Page for updates.

Sincerely,

AFSCME Council 28/WFSE