Inslee Outlines Economic Relief Plans For Workers And Businesses

OLYMPIA, WA — Gov. Jay Inslee announced a series of statewide relief measures Wednesday as part of an ongoing effort to offset some of the economic fallout of the new coronavirus outbreak.

"We know that we are heading for some really choppy economic waters," Inslee said. "When we face any squall, we know we're going to get through that squall and that storm."

The governor said more than $75 million of the $200 million in state funding has already been distributed to assist in the COVID-19 response across Washington. State health officials have confirmed nearly 1,200 illnesses and at least 66 deaths linked to the outbreak.

An emergency order signed by Inslee Monday mandated the closure of all bars, gyms and other recreational facilities, allowing restaurants to remain open only if they narrow services to take-out or delivery. Under the governor's directive, all public gatherings with 50 or more people are prohibited, and smaller gatherings are heavily discouraged.

A report commissioned by the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce found an estimated 40 percent of all jobs in the Puget Sound region face severe impacts in the near-term, with many likely to feel the economic ramifications of the outbreak for much longer.

Protections for renters

Inslee announced Wednesday that residential landlords are barred from serving eviction notices, or issuing 20-day notices, based solely on non-payment of rent. The governor's office said the order excludes other circumstances, including crimes, nuisance issues or provable health and safety concerns for tenants.

The governor's order is effective for 30 days but could be extended.

Inslee's statewide eviction moratorium follows several recent local actions, including in Seattle and Tacoma. The King County Sheriff's Office announced Tuesday its deputies would not enforce any court-ordered eviction until further notice.

On the federal level, the Housing and Finance Agency directed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to cease all foreclosures and evictions for at least two months during the outbreak. Trump signed a coronavirus relief bill Wednesday, including partial pay for workers who are tested for or treated for the illness. Congressional economic stimulus plans are still being negotiated.

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Public utility assistance

The governor asked all public utilities in the state to suspend disconnection over nonpayment, waive late fees for people who are out of work, and offer payment plans while expanding other bill assistance programs. Major energy providers in the area, including Puget Sound Energy, Seattle City Light and Tacoma Public Utilities have already enacted similar steps.

Expanded unemployment insurance

Inslee said the normal one-week waiting period to receive unemployment insurance was waived, speeding up the process for money to arrive for people who have recently lost their jobs. The governor said his office has asked the White House and the state's congressional delegation to officially declare a disaster in Washington, which would give the state authority to provide unemployment assistance for people who would not typically be covered.

Under normal rules, workers need to have worked at least 680 hours in the last 12 to 18 months to qualify.

Suzi LeVine, commissioner of the Employment Security Department, said unemployment claims were 150 percent higher last week, while claims from workers still getting part-time hours jumped 500 percent.

Learn more about unemployment options in Washington here.

Steps to assist small businesses

Washington tapped $5 million for grants to help small businesses impacted by COVID-19 through the state Department of Commerce, according to Inslee. Congress recently approved several billion dollars in disaster loans for businesses.

According to the governor, the Department of Revenue will also waive or suspend penalties and interest for certain late tax payments, including property tax exemption renewals, business license renewals and real estate sales.

Family Emergency Assistance Program expanded

Inslee directed the Department of Social and Health Services to broaden eligibility for the Family Emergency Assistance Program to include families without children. According to DSHS, funds can help assist with things like back rent, deposits, home repairs and short-term lodging.

Behavioral and mental health options

Inslee said anyone who is seeking emotional or mental health support, or treatment for substance abuse, during the health crisis can contact the Washington Recovery Help Line at 1-866-789-1511.