SEATTLE King County will no longer require businesses to check patrons' COVID-19 vaccination status beginning March 1 as case rates and hospitalizations continue to drop. But not everyone is for the new mandate. Visit Getting vaccinated in King County for vaccine locations and appointments. Starting February 6, the King County Executive terminated Executive Order ACO-8-28-EO pertaining to the vaccination mandate for contractors. And King County members of the Washington Nightlife Music Association, a coalition of independently owned music venues, last month called on government officials to implement a vaccination-check mandate and the development of a statewide vaccine verification system. Establishing a vaccine mandate for employees and contractors was critical to keeping employees and the public safe, and keeping services flowing. We have the tools to slow this down and to prevent not only needless suffering but also the ongoing disruption of our lives. KING COUNTY, Wash. - Starting Monday, a new health order goes into effect across King County. With over 85 percent of King County residents having received at least their first vaccine dose, vaccine verification will help keep people safe and keep businesses open. Two lawmakers in Washington state want the state and local governments to bring back employees who were fired because they didn't comply with COVID-19 pandemic vaccine mandates. Public Health Seattle & King County Health Officer Dr. Jeff Duchin said the move will protect customers and workers through providing safer spaces, protecting the health care system, and helping prevent business closures. Charge an office visit or other fee to the recipient if the only service provided is a COVID-19 vaccination. From the beginning of this pandemic, our aim has been to protect the health of our community and save lives. For Pamela Carpio, the owner of Knee High Stocking and Jeepney, she thinks that it is the right thing to do. King County has received complaints about 150 businesses as of last week that members of the public feel haven't been complying with a new countywide policy requiring patrons to show proof of. I am not covering everything about this mandate, but it is easy to look up if you have questions. Multiple King County business owners and major sports teams had already implemented their own vaccination verification policies. At a news . No appointment needed: most pharmacies, clinics, and Public Health centers now offer drop-in COVID-19 vaccination. King County businesses and community members have been instrumental in encouraging nation-leading vaccination verification rates, and Im grateful for the extra effort to keep our community safe over these last several months., "The steady decline in positive cases is much needed positive news. Staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines continues to be critical for preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Vaccine verification for large events is no longer required statewide. He was joined by Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan, King County Executive Dow Constantine, Kaiser Permanente Washington President Susan Mullaney, Washington State Secretary of Health Dr. Umair Shah, and Seattle-King County Public Health Officer Dr. Jeffrey Duchin . King Countys masking requirement for large outdoor events ended Feb. 18. State officials accelerated the timeline for lifting the mask requirement initially set to wind down on March 21 after federal officials loosened public health guidelines on face coverings. To enter a restaurant you must now show proof of vaccination. Anyone needing COVID-19 vaccine can visit KingCounty.gov/vaccine to find a vaccine in their neighborhood. Jay Inslee today announced a requirement for most state workers, and on-site contractors and volunteers to be vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of employment. Our public health experts believe that now is the appropriate time to lift vaccine verification, based on high rates of vaccine coverage and the decrease in new cases and hospitalizations across the county. Everyone should continue to take steps to reduce COVID-19 risk, including getting vaccinated and boosted when eligible, using high quality, well-fitting face masks, improving indoor air quality through ventilation and filtration, and limiting time in crowded and poorly ventilated indoor spaces. Washington's indoor mask mandate which was initially implemented in 2020, then nixed in early 2021, only to be reinstated weeks later is set to lift in most places on March 21. Private businesses can still require masks if they choose, and local governments can enact, continue or reimplement mandates. In accordance with Federal civil rights law, Public Health Seattle & King County does not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of an individuals protected class, including but not limited to race, color, national origin, religion, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, and marital status. By clicking Sign Up, I confirmthat I have read and agreeto the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. In alignment with updated Public Health Seattle and King County guidance, Executive Dow Constantine and Mayor Bruce Harrell announced today that King County and the City of Seattle will no longer require proof of vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition of employment effective today. The vaccination verification policy will no longer be in effect as of March 1. Without these clear guidelines, we would put the livelihoods of artists and arts-workers at continued risk. Today our experts advise that immunity has reached a level that allows these requirements to be relaxed. Therefore, it makes sense that vaccination is highly recommended but no longer required for King County and Seattle staff and contractors outside of health care settings. Seattle will continue to follow public health guidance and adopt strategies that best keep our communities safe. These workers live in every community in our state, working together and with the public every day to deliver services, Inslee said. For more information on King County's COVID-19 vaccine verification policy, visit KingCounty.gov/verify. Washingtons statewide mandate for schools and businesses lifted March 12, Public Health Seattle & King County announced last month, Washingtons COVID-19 mask requirements to lift on March 12, Mask mandate in WA health care, correctional facilities to end, Fauci should be jailed over COVID lies and mandates, Cruz tells CPAC, Final state emergencies winding down 3 years into pandemic, Troops who refused COVID vaccine still may face discipline, A condition called POTS rose after COVID, and patients cant find care, Coronavirus origins still a mystery 3 years into pandemic, Lab leak likely caused COVID pandemic, Energy Dept. "But Seattle is not immune to the surge in cases and hospitalizations caused by the Delta variant. Chinook Building The Fil-Am-owned Knee High Stocking and Jeepney, has already implemented its own vaccine mandate since August. For worksites with 50 or more employees, outbreaks with 10 or more confirmed cases must be reported to the state Department of Labor and Industries. With continued high levels of preventable COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations and increased deaths driven by the Delta variant, serious stress on our regional healthcare system, and concern for a significant outbreak resurgence this fall and winter, King County Executive Dow Constantine, Seattle Mayor Jenny A. Durkan and community, health care, small business, and arts and culture partners joined in support of requiring verification of full vaccination or a negative test to enter certain indoor and outdoor activities and establishments. This is our moment to celebrate the tremendous work the county, businesses, and customers did to make public health a priority saving lives and keeping our economy moving. Johnson & Johnson's Janssen vaccine is approved for anyone age 18 and over, however in most instances the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines are preferred. To date, more than three million vaccine doses have been administered in King County. For children aged 6 months4 years who completed the Moderna primary series and if it has been at least 2 months since their last dose. isolate away from others if you are ill, quarantine away from others if you are not up-to-date on your vaccinations and are exposed to someone with COVID-19, and get tested when possible if you have symptoms or are exposed. SEATTLE - Seattle and King County Thursday announced an indoor vaccine requirement for restaurants, bars, gyms, movie theaters, and other entertainment venues. This gives employees enough time to schedule an appointment for the Pfizer,. We should be doing all we can to ensure the health care system is there to serve our residents. Public and constituent inquiries | 360.902.4111 A photo or photocopy of this card is also acceptable. CDC recommends the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines over J&J for both initial and booster vaccinations. Because we dont know yet how long this immunity lasts or have a way to test for it in individuals, vaccination is recommended for everyone even those who have been previously infected. Following the record-breaking Omicron surge, were have seen a steady reduction in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, and hospital capacity is improving. We also have tools to further reduce the spread of illness through improving indoor air quality (e.g., through ventilation and filtration) and, in some settings, with the use of high-quality, well-fitting masks.. See L&I Requirements and Guidance for Preventing COVID19 and reporting cases. Some, like Max Heigh, a Filipino business owner in the area, think it's necessary to stay safe amid the pandemic. A lot of people just want to go out, go on with their lives. King County will begin requiring customers of restaurants, bars, gyms and other indoor entertainment spaces to show proof of vaccination from COVID-19, or a negative test taken within 72 hours. Browse all Safeway locations in the United States for pharmacies and weekly deals on fresh produce, meat, seafood, bakery, deli, beer, wine and liquor. Businesses and organizations may still choose to implement their own vaccine verification policies. The mandate required customers and visitors to provide proof they were fully vaccinated or recently tested negative for COVID-19 before they could participate in a broad array of indoor. We need help from the community, and we need more people to get vaccinated. March 1, 2020. This order keeps the arts on the path to recovery, while mitigating the most serious health and safety risks for our patrons and their families, Public Health Media Team, PHPIO@kingcounty.gov, Kristin Elia, Executive Office, 206-477-8209, Main phone: 206-263-9600 That includes medical facilities like hospitals, pharmacies, outpatient and dental facilities, long-term care settings, correctional facilities, taxis and ride-hail vehicles. Our COVID-19 response must continue to adapt to the difficult, changing reality of this pandemic. Charge you directly for any administration fees, copays, or coinsurance. Isolation and quarantine requests Link/share our site at kingcounty.gov/covid/current, Find certified small business contractors and suppliers, Wikang Tagalog/Filipino Tagalog/Filipino, For community and faith-based organizations, L&I Requirements and Guidance for Preventing COVID19 and reporting cases, L&I Workplace Safety and Health Guidance, Guidance and resources for businesses and employers, Guidance for Non-Health Care Businesses and Organizations, Safe Cleaning and Disinfection Guidance for Public Spaces, Business Health Trust Employer Resources, publichealthaccommodations@kingcounty.gov, submitting a written inquiry or report online. King County officials made the announcement Wednesday. Seek appropriate reimbursement from the recipients plan or program (example: private health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid) for a vaccine administration fee. But Washington state health . Washington will lift the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for health care and education workers, but employers can choose to mandate vaccines if they wish. In alignment with CDC, the Washington Department of Health recommends workers and passengers two years of age or older wear masks in all indoor public transportation settings, including both conveyances and transportation hubs. Contact King County COVID-19 Business and Community Information by submitting a written inquiry or report online. That work is why we have one of the highest vaccination rates and the lowest cases, hospitalizations, and deaths of any major American city," said Seattle Mayor Jenny A. Durkan. Many public-facing customer service locations will still temporarily operate remotely, and more details on their reopening will be shared at a later date. Dow Constantine. Seattle and King County Thursday announced an indoor vaccine requirement for restaurants, bars, gyms, movie theaters, and other entertainment venues. "These steps forward show we are moving in the right direction and reflect that our region's strong COVID response is the result of a united team effort. We announced the vaccination verification policy in anticipation of a fall and winter surge in cases. The new vaccine mandate went into effect yesterday, October 25. . That means face masks are coming off for all who want to do so in most places starting June 29. But local leaders announced Wednesday that those verification. The intent of the policy was to give additional COVID-19 protection to employees and patrons in high-risk indoor settings while providing more time for people to get fully vaccinated. He said the association would continue working to be part of a solution based on science and urged people to be kind to hospitality workers as they work to stop the spread of the coronavirus. King Countys vaccination verification policy went into effect on October 25, 2021. Today our experts advise that immunity has reached a level that allows these requirements to be relaxed, said Executive Constantine. "The way that this works the best is if people make the right choices," Mayor Jenny Durkan said in an interview with Q13 News. The City will continue to evaluate in-person, remote, and hybrid arrangements to ensure the needs of Seattle residents are met. Executive Constantine reissued the order pertaining to Metro service reductions which will remain in effect. Say your preferred language when connected. Staff are available 7days a week from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Non-medical questions about COVID-19, including compliance and business-related issues? Chase Gallagher, Executive Office, 206-263-8537, Main phone: 206-263-9600 The intent was to reduce COVID-19 transmission in high-risk indoor settings and thereby reduce the burden on our hospitals, while providing time for more people to get fully vaccinated. For the latest business and worker guidance related to reopening, visit the Washington Ready page or the governor's website. 2023 ABS-CBN Corporation. Additionally, King County and the City of Seattle announced their remote employees would begin returning to offices in March. Currently, 68% of the total King County population and 79% of eligible King County residents (those 12 years of age and up) have completed their vaccination series against COVID-19, including more than 70% of every eligible age group and all racial groups tracked by Public Health. While the significant benefits of vaccination have not changed, the acute threat to our community and healthcare system has decreased. As a member of the Seattle & King County community, as a parent of two children in local schools, and as an infectious diseases physician who has worked on fighting the pandemic since January of 2020, I am in very strong support of the actions being taken by Public Health Seattle & King County. For Chris Lacayan, another Filipino business owner, he thinks the mandate is too much. I thought it was easier. Businesses and workplaces have an important role to play in helping slow the of COVID-19. "Vaccination is our best shield against this deadly virus. Our top priority has been to support the King County business community as it navigated changes in regulations, and it can expect that same high level of support and resources from the Chamber to help ensure safety for our community moving forward. Since the earliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, King Countys policy has been to follow the science, listen to the experts, and protect life and health. The updated booster shots will target Omicron variants that are spreading and also the original strain of the COVID virus. So whoever comes in here has to be vaccinated. With restrictions about COVID-19 rapidly changing, please check with individual departments to be sure a building is open before you seek in-person service. "Our data has shown vaccines, masking, and social distancing can reduce the risk of infection and prevent the spread of COVID-19 cases. A Health Order issued today by Public Health Seattle & King County Health Officer Dr. Jeff Duchin, going into effect on October 25, will protect customers and workers through providing safer spaces, protecting our health care system, and helping prevent business closures. Employers will still be required to tell workers when there is a suspected or confirmed coronavirus case. How can I get the COVID-19 vaccine in King County? After more than twenty months, I desperately want to get back to as close to normal as possible, but we can't get there without reducing the risk for all through vaccination, masking, testing, physical distancing, and ventilation. Say your preferred language when connected. The mask order is the latest in relaxing COVID-19 restrictions in Washington state. To enter a restaurant you must now show proof of vaccination. King County's decision to verify vaccination for entry in outdoor events, recreational events or establishments and restaurants, is an important and needed step in the current fight against the pandemic. View this document in other languages: Current guidance on who can get a booster dose, when to get it, and which type to get: CDC recommends that anyone ages 5 and older who have moderately or severely weakened immune systems (immunocompromised) get a third dose of vaccine. The performing arts industry has been devastated by this pandemic. Starting this Monday October 25, people ages 12+ will be required to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result to enter many establishments and events within King County . Customers can use their vaccine cards or a photo of a vaccine card, documentation from a medical record or vaccine provider, or a printed certificate from MyIRMobile.com to enter establishments already requiring vaccine proof. The vaccine mandate for Washington, King County and Seattle city employees would go into effect in October. That work is why we have one of the highest vaccination rates and the lowest cases, hospitalizations, and deaths of any major American city. Washington State sets vaccine mandate for government and health care workers. The Delta variant is more than twice as contagious as the original COVID-19, which makes increasing vaccination rates even more important to slowing disease spread and protecting people from hospitalization and death. State employees and workers in private health care and long-term care settings will have until October 18 to be fully vaccinated. FAX: 206-296-0194. Masks will still be required in some settings. In an interview with Q13's Brandi Kruse, Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan discusses King County's indoor vaccine mandate. No appointment needed: most pharmacies, clinics, and Public Health centers now offer drop-in COVID-19 vaccination. The case was filed . Smaller restaurants and bars with a seating capacity of 12 or fewer do not need to implement the new order until December 6 of this year. Starting October 25, patrons 12-years-old and up must show proof that they are fully vaccinated or provide a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours of entry. As employers prepare to implement the new vaccine verification program over the next several weeks, the Chamber is ready to be their champion. To date, more than three million vaccine doses have been administered in King County. We made that call on our own and we think it's absolutely the right thing to do, and we're prepared to stand behind that. Ce bouton affiche le type de recherche actuellement slectionn. Vaccination and getting boosters when eligible are the most important tools available to prevent severe outcomes from COVID-19 infection. King County Public Health officials said on Tuesday that 70% of residents ages 16 and up had received at least one dose of a COVID vaccine or the one-shot Johnson & Johnson inoculation. We are thrilled to hear that recent public health data has encouraged King County leaders to move our community and our businesses into the next phase of the pandemic and prepare for the sunset of vaccine verification. The lifting of the vaccination mandate for contractors is part of the, Find certified small business contractors and suppliers, Rescinding Vaccination Mandate for Contractors, Executives action to rescind the countys COVID-19 Proclamation of Emergency that was issued on March 1, 2020. Require additional services in order for a person to receive a COVID-19 vaccine; however, additional healthcare services can be provided at the same time and billed as appropriate. Preventing further COVID infections is a powerful way to protect the health care system. Last week, several local sports teams and venues, including the Seattle Kraken, Seattle Mariners, Seattle Seahawks, Seattle Sounders FC, Seattle Storm, Seattle Thunderbirds, University of Washington Huskies, and all events at Climate Pledge Arena adopted vaccination verification policies. Since this policy was adopted, over one-quarter of a million King County residents have gotten vaccinated. Almost a year after lifting its indoor mask mandate, Washington state will drop mask mandates in health care, long-term care and correctional facilities on April 3, state health officials announced Friday, March 3. . Jay Inslee made the announcement on Feb. 28. Press inquiries | 360.902.4136, Vaccine Mandate Frequently Asked Questions, Governor's Distinguished Managers Association, Governors Task Force on Independent Investigations of Police Use of Force, Request a Ceremonial Proclamation, Greeting or Letter. Small restaurants, defined as those with seating capacity for fewer than 12 people, will phase into the mandate on December 6. The changes come as coronavirus cases and hospitalizations fueled by omicron are declining. There is no longer a statewide mask mandate for most indoor spaces, which include schools, child care facilities, libraries, restaurants and bars, places of worship, gyms, recreation centers, indoor athletic facilities, or retail establishments like grocery stores. Jay Inslee announced on Monday that all Washington state employees as well as heath and long-term care providers are required to be fully vaccinated. Learn more about vaccination for youth at kingcounty.gov/vaccine/youth. "For the people who say I just dont want it well then youre making a choice. Anyone needing COVID-19 vaccine can visit KingCounty.gov/vaccine to find a vaccine in their neighborhood. Several jurisdictions have already adopted some form of vaccine verification policy, including New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles County, the State of California, British Columbia in Canada, and Clallam and Jefferson counties in Washington state. Several forms of vaccination proof will be permitted under the order, including: The order defines full vaccination as two weeks after the second dose of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or two weeks after one dose of Johnson & Johnson vaccine, or two weeks after completing another approved vaccine. We must act now and act boldly to change the trajectory of the virus and keep our communities safe. For people who are unvaccinated or cannot prove vaccine status, they will be required to show proof of a negative PCR COVID-19 test in the last 72 hours, or a negative rapid test result from a testing provider conducted on site at an event or establishment just prior to entry. Some local businesses throughout Seattle have been requiring proof of vaccination from customers for weeks. Our top priority has been to support the King County business community as it navigated changes in regulations, and it can expect that same high level of support and resources from the Chamber to help ensure safety for our community moving forward.. Updated (bivalent) booster vaccines are now available. It doesnt affect outdoor dining, take-out orders and shopping in places including grocery stores. The statewide and King County mask requirements for outdoor gatherings of over 500 people ended Feb. 18. Isolation and quarantine requests Too many people, adults and children, are ending up in hospitals across the state and here in our county, threatening to overwhelm the system. For general questions about COVID-19 in Washington State call the Washington State COVID-19 Information Hotline at 1-800-525-0127. . KING COUNTY, Wash. After nearly two years, King County and the City of Seattle will no longer require proof of vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition of employment. Learn more about eligibility and getting vaccinated in King County. Vaccination verification is just one part of a multi-faceted COVID-19 prevention strategy. Vaccine verification was a win-win: our businesses got to keep their staff on payroll and keep their doors open, while prioritizing safety. The Seattle Metro Chamber strongly and actively supports vaccination because we know it is the path out of this pandemic and toward an equitable economic recovery. Public Health continues to encourage everyone to be fully vaccinated and to be prudent about the use of masks in indoor settings., Chase Gallagher, Executive Office, 206-263-8537, Jamie Housen, Mayor's Office, 206-798-5002, Main phone: 206-263-9600 In-person customer service counters will continue to remain open. The mandate says those who must now get vaccinated have until Oct. 18 to complete their vaccinations. King County will stop requiring restaurants and bars to verify customers' vaccination statuses for indoor dining starting March 1, officials announced Wednesday, as case counts and. Public Health, King County, and City of Seattle will be working with partners to provide technical support and educational materials to businesses and organizations implementing the order. Local governments still have the authority to continue or reimplement mask mandates, and private businesses can still require employees and customers to wear masks, according to Inslees office. For City of Seattle employees, this means that departments will begin to bring more than 5,000 employees who have been remote back to the office based on business needs and work plans. The mandate requires most state employees, health care workers and school employees to get. COVID-19 information King County Executive Weve seen an 80% decrease in COVID-19 incidence rates and a 60% decrease in hospitalization rates since COVID-19 cases peaked locally in mid-January. Request an accommodation If you have a disability and need accommodation, email publichealthaccommodations@kingcounty.gov. Our aim in King County is to efficiently and equitably vaccinate as many eligible King County residents as possible in order to suppress the spread of COVID-19 and minimize the impact of the pandemic on our community. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 vaccination record card or photo of card. 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