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. Dow Constantine. Here are the latest mask and vaccine-verification policies in King County and Washington state. Anthony Anton, president and CEO of the Washington Hospitality Association, said in a statement Thursday that the announcement creates different standards for different types of eating places and no additional standards for most businesses. With new COVID-19 cases and hospitalization decreasing, and over 87% of King County residents over age 12 fully vaccinated, King County Executive Dow Constantine announced Public Health Seattle & King County is lifting the local health order requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination for entry into indoor recreational settings, or outdoor events. of Health, PDF), COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Doses Reference Guide for All Ages, Infographic about boosters if you are immuno-compromised, King County's Strategy for Vaccine Delivery, Principles for Equitable Vaccine Delivery, Data dashboard: Summary of COVID vaccination among King County residents. While the significant benefits of vaccination have not changed, the acute threat to our community and healthcare system has decreased. King County also dropped its vaccine-verification requirement for large outdoor events, like concerts and sporting events, as well as restaurants, bars, theaters and gyms on March 1. Today, nearly 80% of all King County residents are now fully vaccinated and among those who are eligible to get vaccinated, which are people ages 5 and older, 92% have started the vaccination series. Some local businesses throughout Seattle have been requiring proof of vaccination from customers for weeks. Having been on the front lines since the beginning, and now responding to this latest surge, we know this is not sustainable for our communities or our caregivers. It is the mission of public servants and those providing health care to serve our fellow Washingtonians. RELATED: State workers seek exemptions to Washington COVID-19 vaccine mandate. 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. Small restaurants, defined as those with seating capacity for fewer than 12 people, will phase into the mandate on December 6. Although our mandatory vaccine verification requirement is ending, COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations remain elevated and layered COVID-19 prevention remains important. Seattle, King County dropping COVID-19 vaccine mandate | king5.com 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. Individuals under 12 years of age, who are not eligible to be vaccinated, are not required to be tested for entry. Executive Constantine and Mayor Harrell also announced that restrictions on in-office work will be lifted, and remote employees will begin returning to the office in March. 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. Businesses and organizations may continue to implement their own vaccination verification rules for their establishments. The Delta virus is much more contagious, airborne, causes severe illness, and is seriously stressing our hospitals and healthcare providers," said Dr. Jeff Duchin, Health Officer for Public Health Seattle & King County. That's the plan of 14th District State Rep. Chris Corry of Yakima. Please note that while many industry sectors such as restaurants, bars, gyms, retails stores and other businesses have returned to normal capacity and operations, individual businesses may choose to maintain restrictions as they deem appropriate for the health and safety of their workers and customers. 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. The vaccine mandate for Washington, King County and Seattle city employees would go into effect in October. Read the full story on the governor's Medium page. King County Executive The vaccine mandate first went into effect mid-2021. 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. By clicking Sign Up, I confirmthat I have read and agreeto the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. After a year-and-a-half of COVID-19 controlling and taking away lives, vaccines are the only way to stop this pandemic, prevent more dangerous strains from developing, restore our freedoms and our safety, and return our society to normalcy. Together, we can help put an end to this pandemic and regain freedom from COVID-19. Public Health Seattle & King County COVID-19 resources Current guidance Vaccination verification Vaccination verification Beginning March 1, 2022, the vaccine verification requirement will no longer be in effect in King County. 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. King County, the City of Seattle, and Public Health developed the vaccine verification policy in consultation with Public Health's Pandemic and Racism Community Advisory Group, cities, small businesses, chambers of commerce, labor unions, trade associations, sports teams, entertainment venues, community groups, and faith-based leaders throughout the county to create a policy that aims to be workable, fair, and equitable for businesses and residents. Immunization program - King County - King County, Washington Vaccine mandate for King County - Washington Forum Learn more about vaccination for youth at kingcounty.gov/vaccine/youth. 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. But the overall mandate is temporary and will be re-evaluated for a possible extension in April 2022. To keep employees and the community safe and healthy, in mid-2021 that included requiring all county and city employees, contractors, and volunteers to show proof they had received the initial COVID-19 vaccination series. Guy Hudson, Chief Executive Officer, Swedish Health Services, Rachel Smith, President and CEO of the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, Nate Dwyer, Chief Operating Officer, Seattle Theatre Group, Find certified small business contractors and suppliers, vaccine verification policy at restaurants, bars, and gyms/fitness centers alone could have a significant positive impact, Local Health Officer Order Vaccine Verification (September 16, 2021), Health Order webpage, including Frequently Asked Questions, Public Health Insider Blog on Health Order, King County COVID-19 Vaccination Dashboard, Outdoor events with 500 people or more such as professional and collegiate sports and entertainment events. 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. King County reports losing about 2% of its workforce and the city of Seattle lost about 1% of workers who refused the vaccine. Current COVID-19 guidance - King County, Washington What you need to know about mask, vaccine rules at Seattle-area arts 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. 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. 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. A photo or photocopy of this card is also acceptable. Rescinding Vaccination Mandate for Contractors - King County Seattle was the first region in the country to feel the devastating effects of the COVID-19 virus, and we innovated and brought nation-leading testing and vaccination sites to our residents. Todays orders will not impact booking restrictions at King County correctional facilities originally adopted at the beginning of the pandemic, and that remain in effect due to staffing shortages at the correctional facilities. He was recently promoted from 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. This is the first coronavirus death reported in the U.S. "King County's vaccine verification program will prevent infections, hospitalizations and deaths, safeguard our healthcare system, and provide safer spaces for the public and for workers.". More people are now vaccinated and protected against severe COVID-19. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Vaccine verification requirements loosened statewide and in King County on March 1. We are now in a different phase of the pandemic compared to where we were in 2021 and 2022 and it makes sense to remove any requirements for vaccination, said Dr. Faisal Khan, Director of Public Health Seattle & King County. 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. Too many people, adults and children, are ending up in hospitals across the state and here in our county, threatening to overwhelm the system. Treatments such as Paxlovid antiviral treatment are available for people who get infected and may be at higher risk. Editors note: This post is no longer being updated. COVID-19 vaccine verification requirements for most businesses in King County have been in effect since October of 2021. King County will end COVID vaccine requirements at restaurants, bars Indoor entertainment and recreational events or establishments such as professional and collegiate sports, entertainment, performing arts, museums, theatre, live music, gyms, and conferences/conventions. Employers should follow Washington State Labor & Industries (L&I) requirements for COVID-19 in the workplace: Although Washington States public health emergency proclamations for COVID-19 ended October 31, 2022, COVID19 is still a recognized workplace hazard that employers must address. 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. But local leaders announced Wednesday that those verification. Anyone needing COVID-19 vaccine can visit KingCounty.gov/vaccine to find a vaccine in their neighborhood. In addition, since this policy was adopted, over one-quarter of a million King County residents have gotten vaccinated, meaning nearly 80% of King County residents are now fully vaccinated and 92% of those eligible have started the vaccination series. We also know the COVID-19 vaccines remain one of the safest and most effective tools for preventing severe illness and hospitalizations, so we support the announcement today that we believe will help encourage everyone who can get vaccinated to get vaccinated. Rooted in our shared values of safety and health equity, we will continue to follow this approach as we respond to next steps in the pandemic and continue to advance efforts to ensure a thriving and equitable recovery for all Seattle residents and neighbors.. 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King County data shows that since the omicron surge began, residents who are unvaccinated are 27 times more likely to be hospitalized. However, providers cannot charge the vaccine recipient the balance of the bill. Members will have a partner in this every step of the way. COVID-19 vaccine is free and no insurance required. says. Ce bouton affiche le type de recherche actuellement slectionn. No appointment needed: most pharmacies, clinics, and Public Health centers now offer drop-in COVID-19 vaccination. The performing arts industry has been devastated by this pandemic. King Co proof of vaccine mandate starts Monday; Restaurants try - KOMO Multiple King County business owners and major sports teams had already implemented their own vaccination verification policies. 401 Fifth Ave, 3rd Floor Rooted in our shared values of safety and health equity, we will continue to follow this approach as we respond to next steps in the pandemic and continue to advance efforts to ensure a thriving and equitable recovery for all Seattle residents and neighbors. 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. The steady decline in positive cases is much needed positive news. 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. Less than 2% of employees were . The requirement applies to state workers, regardless of teleworking status. In an interview with Q13's Brandi Kruse, Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan discusses King County's indoor vaccine mandate. See L&I Requirements and Guidance for Preventing COVID19 and reporting cases. KING COUNTY, Wash. - Gov. Establishing a vaccine mandate for employees and contractors was critical to keeping employees and the public safe, and keeping services flowing. 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. Restaurants and bars (including indoor dining) this does not apply to outdoor dining, take-out customers, and places that aren't primarily used as a restaurant, such as grocery stores. Employees also must allow workers to continue wearing masks if they choose and cannot take adverse action against a worker who wears a mask or takes time off to get vaccinated or seek coronavirus-related treatment. 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. As a father, Neve says this requirement gives him piece of mind when he returns home to his three-year-old, who can't get the vaccine. The vaccination verification policy will no longer be in effect as of March 1. Treatments such as Paxlovid antiviral treatment are available for people who get infected and may be at higher risk. King County reaches deal with 'majority' of unions on vaccine mandate Washington to lift mask mandate in health care facilities King County, WA to end vaccine requirements at bars, restaurants - KOIN.com KING COUNTY, Wash. - Starting Monday, a new health order goes into effect across King County. "After extensive engagement with community partners, small businesses, venues, and hospitals, Seattle is proud to implement a vaccination verification policy.". Charge an office visit or other fee to the recipient if the only service provided is a COVID-19 vaccination. The Moderna vaccine is approved for anyone age 6 months to 5 years or age 18 and over. WA to end masking requirement in health care, correctional facilities, Fire on Lake City Way in Seattle raises smoke, flooding concerns, One Seattle business is taking a stand against tipping mania, Tacoma woman refusing tuberculosis treatment continues to face arrest, Be bolder to get light rail done, expert panel tells Sound Transit. Seattle and King County Thursday announced an indoor vaccine requirement for restaurants, bars, gyms, movie theaters, and other entertainment venues. Updated: 10:18 PM PST March 3, 2022. Starting February 6, the King County Executive terminated Executive Order ACO-8-28-EO pertaining to the vaccination mandate for contractors. Request an accommodation RELATED: Washington state troopers, other workers sue over vaccine mandate. 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. Today our experts advise that immunity has reached a level that allows these requirements to be relaxed, said Executive Constantine. Washington announces COVID vaccine mandate for state workers, health But Washington state health . To enter a restaurant you must now show proof of vaccination. Establishments will be responsible for checking vaccination proof or negative test status. The mandate says those who must now get vaccinated have until Oct. 18 to complete their vaccinations. UW's IHME projects our outbreak to worsen in the next six months with hundreds of thousands of additional cases, thousands of additional hospitalizations, and approximately a thousand additional deaths, with the majority among unvaccinated people. Private businesses can still require masks if they choose, and local governments can enact, continue or reimplement mandates. To protect customers and workers, preserve hospital capacity and help prevent business closures, King County will require verification of full vaccination status or a negative test to enter outdoor public events of 500 or more people and indoor entertainment and recreational establishments and events such as live music, performing arts, gyms, restaurants, and bars. 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.