Gov. Inslee threatens to roll back openings

OLYMPIA — Gov. Jay Inslee threatened to roll back openings of businesses and activities Tuesday, July 14, due to the reported increase in coronavirus cases state wide.

During a press conference, he said residents should not be surprised if the state followed the actions of California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom in recent days ordered bars, restaurants and other businesses and activities closed after an increase in cases there.

“The situation we are in is unsustainable,” he said. “We have to reduce the numbers… We have to find some way to break that chain of looming disaster.”

In addition, Inslee said he would not allow any counties to moved forward in his four-phase reopening plan.

The earliest more activities will be allowed to open is July 28, he said, but only if the number of cases in the state subsides.

“I would categorize it as a significant risk (of rolling back),” he said. “By the way, it doesn’t have to wait until July 28.”

Inslee previously ordered all people in the state to wear masks in public places, either indoors or in outside spaces where they cannot remain at least six feet apart.

In a second related proclamation, he ordered businesses to refuse service to unmasked patrons.

In Eastern Washington, many businesses have posted signs stating they require masks, but few have been refusing service to paying customers.