Vaccinations are the ticket to getting Washington back in business. And if enough shots get in arms, we’re going to be seeing a lot more smiling faces soon.

On May 13, Gov. Inslee announced that COVID-19 restrictions across Washington State will be lifted by June 30. And on May 18, all the state’s counties shifted to Phase 3 of the Healthy Washington: Roadmap to Recovery plan, which allows 50 percent occupancy at businesses. Pierce County was rolled back to Phase 1 in April.

Reopening could come sooner

If 70 percent or more of Washington State residents 16 and older get at least their first vaccine, the reopening date could move up. At press time, nearly 62 percent had gotten at least one shot.

“We need to increase the vaccination rate in Pierce County to ensure our businesses survive and thrive as we battle the pandemic,” said EDB President Bruce Kendall. “The June 30 date is no guarantee. It’s a goal, and it could change if we don’t get more shots in arms.”

Read the story in this newsletter about how Pierce County businesses and organizations are working to ensure employees are fully vaccinated.