This page lists selected coronavirus (COVID-19) emergency proclamations issued by Governor Inslee that are relevant to government agencies in Washington State, as well as additional guidance documents from a variety of state agencies.
It is part of MRSC's Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources for Local Governments series.
Governor’s Emergency Authority
The governor has the authority to issue emergency proclamations under RCW 43.06.220, which has several different subsections.
The governor has sole authority to issue and extend emergency proclamations under RCW 43.06.220(1), which includes “[s]uch other activities as he or she reasonably believes should be prohibited to help preserve and maintain life, health, property or the public peace.” For instance, the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order (Proclamation 20-25) and its subsequent extensions and amendments were issued under RCW 43.06.220(1).
The governor also has the authority to issue emergency proclamations under RCW 43.06.220(2), which includes waiving or suspending statutory obligations or limitations. However, these proclamations are limited to 30 days and can only be extended beyond 30 days by concurrent resolution of the legislature, or by the legislative leadership (majority and minority leaders of both houses) if the legislature is not in session.
An emergency proclamation issued under both subsections may require action from both the governor and the legislature (or its leadership) to extend all provisions of the proclamation beyond 30 days. If the legislature does not agree, the portion of the declaration issued under RCW 43.06.220(2) expires after 30 days while the portion issued under RCW 43.06.220(1) remains in effect until terminated by the governor.
"Safe Start, Stay Healthy" Order and Phased Re-Opening
- Healthy Washington – Roadmap to Recovery – State's recovery plan
- Safe Start Reopening Guide for State Agencies – Governor Inslee issued a memo to local governments encouraging them to use this guide as a resource when developing their own Safe Start Plans.
- Phase 3 Safe Start Plan Template – Guidance originally issued in summer 2020 to help local government agencies and other entities develop a written safety plan outlining how they will prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace. This document was issued under the former “Safe Start” plan, which has since been superseded, but the general health and safety considerations are still helpful. However, make sure to check the state’s current public health guidance.
- Roadmap to Recovery Metrics – Shows current phase of each county, as well as data and metrics used to determine the reopening phase for each county
- COVID-19 Reopening Guidance for Businesses and Workers – Industry-specific public health and social distancing standards
- WAC 296-800-14035 – Emergency rule; employers must not allow employees to perform work where a business activity is prohibited by an emergency proclamation and must comply with all conditions for operation required by emergency proclamation, including Safe Start phased reopening requirements for all business and any industry-specific requirements. See rulemaking history.
Economic Impacts
Facial Coverings/Face Masks
Public Health Data & Resources
Employee Leave, Benefits, and Unemployment
Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA)
Public Records Act (PRA)
Financial Reporting and CARES Act Reimbursement
Utilities
Gift of Public Funds
Eviction Moratoriums and Tenant Protections
Planning
Information Technology and Telecommuting