Greetings Friends and Neighbors,

I hope that you are doing well and staying safe and healthy. I have urgent news to share regarding the state’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

While most Washingtonians have been doing their part to take personal precautions, the spread and severity of this virus is still a significant threat. That’s why Governor Inslee issued a new order called “Stay Home, Stay Healthy.”

It went into effect immediately and implements a ban on all public and private gatherings – even weddings and funerals. In addition, the order requires the closure of all non-essential businesses within 48 hours, which means this evening. Here is a link to the businesses and industries considered essential. You can click here to read the order itself.

This is no time for politics, but I do have some concerns about the government determining what’s essential and what isn’t. If a business or service isn’t on that list but think they may be essential, they can email business@mil.wa.gov to get clarification, or to petition to be added.

It’s drastic, but to use a phrase that has become common, these are unprecedented times.

Here are some additional resources for those affected by the COVID-19 response.

• COVID-19 public health information.
• Updates from the governor’s office.
• Resources for businesses and workers.
• Childcare and Public Schools.

This won’t be easy – it will have a huge impact on our state’s economy and lives of our citizens. However, I’m confident that we can come together and emerge from this stronger.

It is an honor to serve you and my office is here to help you with any questions you may have about your state government.

Sincerely,

Phil Fortunato,

Your 31st District State Senator