Inslee Adds More Stay-At-Home Guidance For Businesses

OLYMPIA, WA — Gov. Jay Inslee's office released updated guidance Tuesday evening, classifying more categories of businesses deemed essential under the "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" order.

Don't miss the latest coronavirus updates from health and government officials in Washington. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters for what you need to know daily.

Car sales & repair

Under the governor's latest guidance, car repair facilities are essential and may continue operating with "the minimum number of workers required to support provide a service," while adhering to social distancing and sanitary requirements.

The updated guidance allows for limited sales and leasing at new and used dealerships, only if they are closing a transaction that began before the governor's proclamation, or if it is necessary to replace a heavily damaged vehicle. All visits must be scheduled in advance, and only one employee can be in the building at a time.

Fishing and recreation

Inslee's order allows for commercial fishing operations and work to support geoduck fisheries, but recreational shellfish harvesting and fishing are classified as non-essential activities.

While state campgrounds are closed until at least April 30, private campgrounds are considered essential and allowed to remain open, to ensure that long-term residents are not displaced. "To the greatest extent possible, avoid using this bulletin to justify vacationing in an unsafe manner," the order reads.

Real estate and moving

Companies that offer commercial and household goods moving services are deemed essential, "to ensure that people remain in housing, that contracts are fulfilled, or that vulnerable individuals are removed from danger."

The order requires all work is completed with the minimum number of employees possible and follows social distancing measures.

Childcare and nannies

According to the bulletin, nannies and other childcare providers are classified as essential workers if they are caring for children of other essential workers, including nurses, first responders, and all others whose occupation meets the standard.

Related: Inslee Outlines Potential Enforcement For Stay-At-Home Orders

You can find an updated list of business categories classified as essential in Washington here. Business owners can request a specific determination on their status using this form.

The governor's stay-at-home order, originally set to expire next week, is likely to be extended in the coming days, Inslee's chief of staff said Tuesday.