Small bars and restaurants in King County to require proof of vaccination starting Monday

KING COUNTY, Wash. — Proof of vaccination will be required in small bars and restaurants across King County starting Monday.

Although children ages 5 to 11 are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, the rules only apply to anyone 12 and older.

The county’s vaccination verification policy went into effect for larger establishments and certain indoor and outdoor events on Oct. 25.

At that time, smaller restaurants and bars with a seating capacity of 12 or fewer were not required to comply with the public health order.

The later implementation date for these businesses was intended to give them a longer preparation period to comply with the order.

Those who are unvaccinated or cannot prove vaccination status are required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within the last 72 hours.

The documentation must be from a laboratory, health care provider or pharmacy. Self-administered rapid tests or home tests will not be accepted.

The county’s order is not expected to be permanent. It is currently slated to last for six months starting Oct. 25, but it will be reviewed for possible extension based on future outbreak conditions.

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