As Spokane and our state continues to respond to COVID-19, my thoughts are with everybody in our community and statewide who are taking on new challenges and helping save lives.

Last night I joined leaders of the Washington State Legislature in a bipartisan statement of unity and support for Gov. Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. Here’s part of that statement:

“The weeks and months to come will test our will, our values and our courage, but our state is resilient. We will get through this. We must work together, support each other and stay positive. Ultimately we will emerge from this challenge more united than ever, prepared to build an even stronger Washington.”

I am proud our Legislature is united in our response to COVID-19. As the governor said yesterday, we need to hit this virus hard now with the only proven tool we have — social distancing.

I joined other leaders from Spokane to provide an update on the COVID-19 response today. Watch here.

More about Stay Home, Stay Healthy

The Stay Home, Stay Healthy order:

  • Requires every Washingtonian to stay home unless they need to pursue an essential activity
  • Allows outdoor recreational activities such as walking, gardening, bike riding on your own or with members of your household
  • Prohibits all gatherings for social, spiritual and recreational purposes
  • Temporarily closes businesses except essential businesses

I know the governor’s order to close non-essential businesses and further limit social interactions is difficult for our entire state. But we know this aggressive action now will help us control the virus and better prepare our state for an economic recovery.

In addition to the state and local response, I think we are all hoping to see action soon in Washington, D.C. on a federal stimulus package to help working families and small businesses. Today I joined my colleagues in a letter requesting the federal government unlock disaster unemployment assistance for thousands of independent contractors in Washington. Please see my last newsletter for more information about federal loan assistance for businesses and other important COVID-19 related links.