COVID-19 case numbers continue to rise in Washington state, but health leaders say it is a good idea to continue to ease restrictions on businesses and activities that have been hobbled because of the virus even as some ask when will counties be allowed to advance under Gov. Jay Inslee's Safe Start plan.
For the first several months of the pandemic, the Inslee Administration allowed counties to move between phases, but that has been placed on hold in favor opening up activities.
Health Secretary John Wiesman said although coronavirus case numbers are rising, the problem is not with organized activities and businesses, but in general gatherings. That is why the governor is loosening restrictions on activities such as restaurants, bars, movie theaters and some youth sports.
“I have to express a challenge," Inslee said Tuesday.