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Commerical gaming in Washington will not be part of initial reopening phase1 May 2020On 1 May, Washington Governor Jay Inslee announced the extension of his Stay Home, Stay Healthy order through 31 May, 2020 and outlined the phased “Safe Start” approach he and public health officials will take for resuming recreational, social and business activities. He issued the new proclamation on May 4, 2020 to begin Phase 1. Phase 1 builds upon re-opening of some construction activity and outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, playing golf and some park access. The state will stay in every phase for a minimum of three weeks in order to allow one complete disease incubation period plus an additional week to compile complete data and confirm trends, which means businesses such as commercial casinos, card rooms, bingo halls and off-track betting facilities will remain closed. Gatherings of more than 50 people won't be allowed until Phase 4, at the earliest. “This phased approach to re-opening our economy will allow us to move forward with a careful and thoughtful balance of our state’s health and economic needs,” Inslee said. “However, if infection rates and hospitalizations for COVID-related issues go up, I would not hesitate to scale these efforts back down to protect public health and save lives. “I fully recognize the impact this is having on families, workers and businesses, but we have not yet won the fight against this virus,” Inslee continued. “We continue to see infection rates, hospitalizations and deaths across the state from COVID-19.” Every phase will still require social distancing and appropriate health precautions including the use of personal protective equipment in a number of workplaces. This phased approach may be adjusted as the pandemic evolves. You can view the COVID-19 Risk Assessment dashboard used by the governor and public health leaders to evaluate the risk associated with possible modifications to the Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. The governor’s office will provide industry-specific guidance and safety criteria for businesses listed in each phase of the plan. Business activities are not authorized to open until a business is able to meet all safety criteria. |