Q&A: Washington state’s reopening

WASHINGTON STATE — Washington state is reopening Wednesday, June 30 after more than a year of pandemic restrictions.

What does reopening mean?

Reopening means that, for the most part, the mask requirements, physical distancing requirements and capacity restrictions for venues and businesses will go away. Bars, churches, concert venues, restaurants, movie theaters and more can return to maximum capacity. Businesses are still allowed to set their own standards which can include continuing to require a mask or keeping capacity lower.

Do I still have to wear a mask?

The Washington State Department of Health adopted the CDC’s mask guidelines which states that people who have been fully vaccinated can safely stop wearing masks except when required by state or local rules. Exceptions include health care facilities, public transit, schools and shelters. Business can still require customers to wear masks.

Do I still need to practice social distancing?

There are no longer any statewide requirements for social distancing.

Is it safe to travel?

Washington is following CDC guidance for travel. Travel guidelines depend on if you are fully vaccinated.

Fully vaccinated people are required to wear a mask on planes, buses, trains and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and while indoors at airports and stations. Travelers are not required to wear a mask in outdoor areas, like a ferry or top deck of a bus.

People who are not full vaccinated must take a COVID-19 test 1-3 days before their trip and are encouraged to check in with the COVID-19 restrictions at their destination. The CDC recommends that travelers who are not fully vaccinated continue to wear a mask and maintain physical distancing when traveling.

Will I need to prove that I’m vaccinated?

There is no state mandate requiring you to prove your vaccination status, but private venues and businesses can ask you for proof of vaccination before allowing entry.

There is one requirement left in place past the June 30 opening for large indoor events. These spaces are defined as anything with more than 10,000 simultaneous participants in an enclosed space. Events of this kind are limited to 75% capacity unless everyone shows proof of vaccination until at least July 31 when the guidance will be reevaluated.

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