COVID-19: Entire State of Washington Now In Phase 3 of Inslee’s Reopening Plan

Effective March 22, the entire state of Washington entered Phase 3 of Governor Jay Inslee’s reopening plan for the COVID-19 pandemic. But, what does that mean?

Phase 3 will allow up to 50 percent occupancy or 400 people maximum, whichever is lower, for all indoor spaces. This applies to all industries and indoor activities currently allowed including:

• Restaurants
• Gyms and fitness centers
• Movie theaters

Sports guidance will change in Phase 3 to allow in-person spectators. Spectators will be allowed to attend outdoor venues with permanent seating with capacity capped at 25 percent. The change affects both professional and high school sports, as well as motorsports, rodeos, and other outdoor spectator events. Social distancing and facial covering are still required.

The new phase also allows for up to 400 people maximum to attend outdoor activities, as well as events in indoor facilities — so long as 400 people does not exceed 50 percent capacity for the location, and physical distancing and masking protocols are enforced. Larger venue events are capped at 25 percent occupancy, or up to 9,000 people, whichever is less, and must follow spectator guidelines.

Church congregations will also be allowed to sing.