Governor issues new social gathering limit

OLYMPIA – Washington governor Jay Inslee announced July 16 a new 10-person limit on social gatherings, beyond the members of a household, for counties in Phase III of reopening – which includes Whitman County. The previous cap was 50.

The new limit does not apply to church services, weddings, funerals, businesses operating indoor or retail stores.

The new restrictions began Monday.

Face masks and social distancing are still required, no matter the size of a gathering.

Inslee also announced a ban on all indoor and outdoor live entertainment.

The governor was joined in a news conference July 16 by John Wiesman, Washington Secretary of Health, who reported on a surge in cases, particularly among young adults, traced to gatherings and celebrations from the Fourth of July weekend.

Inslee also indicated that further restrictions may be put in place (again) if the increase in cases does not subside.