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Very significant announcements related to the COVID-19 pandemic came out this week:
- On Monday, we learned that the CDC and FDA authorized the emergency use of Pfizer vaccine to 12-15 year-olds. Read more from Public Health – Seattle & King County >>>
- Yesterday, the CDC announced that they are no longer recommending that fully-vaccinated people need to wear masks. Note: this guidance does not apply to health care settings like hospitals, long-term care, or doctor’s offices; correctional facilities, homeless shelters, schools, as well as public transit and air travel. Learn more about the new guidance from CDC >>>
- On Thursday, Washington’s Superintendent of Public Instruction announced that students will be learning from their school buildings full-time in the upcoming school year. Read Superintendent Reykdal’s message on plans for school in fall 2021 >>>
- Finally, yesterday, Gov. Jay Inslee announced plans to reopen the state and relax most COVID-19 precautions by June 30 if Washington achieves a 70% vaccination rate. Read more about Gov. Inslee’s announcement >>>
 These announcements provide hopeful news for the residents of King County and across Washington. I look forward to embracing the good things as we emerge from the depths of the pandemic: safe social gatherings, frequenting local businesses, community events. I also want to recognize that this sudden change will take some getting used to and we need to be kind to one another as we readjust to what the future brings.
We have done amazing work fighting back the pandemic for more than a year. Let’s keep up the good work so we not only see the state reopen on June 30 but stay open and healthy going forward.
Recognizing #AffordableHousingWeek
Advocates and caring neighbors across our region recognized this past week as Affordable Housing Week. This year’s theme highlighted the deep connections between healthcare and housing.
 Regional collaboration is critical to address our housing crisis. No one city can address it alone and government can’t address it alone either – it’s why community partners play such an integral role. As a regional government, we at the King County Council have the opportunity to help coordinate that collaboration. I’m proud of the work we’ve done so far to help build, preserve, and subsidize housing and look forward to working with my colleagues and my community to make King County more affordable and inclusive as we continue this work.
Learn more from the Housing Development Consortium and watch Affordable Housing Week event recordings >>>
Mental Health Awareness Month
We know that the COVID-19 pandemic has not only affected our community’s physical health and economy, but our mental health, as well. That’s why it’s especially important this year that we observe May as Mental Health Awareness Month. If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health, you are not alone and help is available.
Visit NAMI Eastside's website to find seminars and classes, online support groups, helplines, and more >>>
Spread the word!
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Sincerely,
 Claudia Balducci
King County Council
Council Chair
District 6
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