Dear neighbor,
See you in November
Because of election year restrictions, this will be my last newsletter until after the results of the November election are certified. These election restrictions not apply to office services. Please do not hesitate to reach out if I can serve you in any way. You can reach me by email at Keith.Wagoner@leg.wa.gov or on my cell at 360-545-2820.
Taiwan citizens donate masks to United States
Friday, Secretary of State Kim Wyman and I met at the with Taipei Economic and Cultural Office Director General Fan and Tony, Nien Tzu Hu, who delivered 100,000 medical masks to the state of Washington to be used by medical personnel and first responders. In total, citizens of Taiwan have donated 4 million to the United States in the fight against COVID-19. I was honored to accept these masks on behalf of the medical professionals of Washington state and appreciate the citizens of Taiwan, who donated these masks to us during this pandemic. It is heartwarming to know in troubled times friends who share our democratic values can be counted upon to assist us. There is much to learned from Taiwan which has three times Washington’s population yet experienced only six COVID-19 deaths and did not shut down its businesses or schools.
It’s time to be counted!
Every 10 years, The US Census Bureau conducts a Population and Housing census, in which every resident is counted. Your participation is vital! I filled out mine; can I count on you to fill out yours? To date, an estimated 53% of 39th district households have returned their census forms, which is several points below the statewide average.
By now, you should have received an invitation to participate. If you haven’t already, be sure to respond to the Census Bureau with your information. I know these are trying times, but please take 10 minutes and go to www.2020census.gov and answer about a dozen questions. The impact on our communities is tremendous.
Reopening Washington state
Last week, Governor Inslee extended his Stay Home, Stay Healthy order through May 31. I know many of us are anxious to return to work and social activities but, it is important that we resume these activities in a safe, thoughtful manner to prevent future outbreaks. While I am please the governor finally release his plan, I am disappointed that it does little to recognize the regional differences across our state or to release decision making to local jurisdictions. Weeks ago, Republicans released a plan to jump-start our economy and get Washington working. Our plan received no acknowledgement from the governor’s office and during the most recent senate briefing by the governor’s office, no questions or comments were entertained. This is not how representative government is supposed to work.
The governor’s plan outlines four phases (detailed below) of reopening businesses and resuming activities involving group gatherings, travel, shopping and recreation. Businesses and activities that have recently reopened include retail curbside pickup, automobile sales, car washes, landscaping and house cleaning services, and drive-in spiritual services with one household per vehicle. All reopening activities depend on continued success in slowing the spread of COVID-19.
Our state is currently in phase 1. Some construction has resumed, recreational activities including day use at state parks, playing golf, fishing and hunting reopened on May 5. Officials are working with industries to develop new protocols that could soon also allow for retail curbside pickup, car washes, landscaping and house cleaning services and drive-in spiritual services with one household per vehicle.
Phase 2 will allow expansions of outdoor recreation activities would be allowed, as well as small gatherings of five or fewer people, new construction and in-store retail purchases with health restrictions. Barber shops and salons could reopen. Restaurants could reopen with 50% capacity. Some professional services and offices could open as well, even though teleworking would remain strongly encouraged. Pet care services including grooming could resume.
Phase 3 will allow gatherings of 50 people or less, including sports activities, and non-essential travel could resume. Restaurants could move up to 75% capacity and bars at 25% capacity; gyms and movie theaters could reopen at 50% capacity; retail, libraries, museums and government buildings could reopen. Recreational facilities like pools could open at 50% capacity. Nightclubs and entertainment venues would still not be able to reopen.
Phase 4 will involve resuming most public interactions. Gatherings of more than 50 people would be allowed, but still while practicing physical distancing.
As I said above, my office is here for you during this unprecedented time. If there is anything I can do for you, please call or send me an email.
Email: Keith.Wagoner@leg.wa.gov
Phone: 360-545-2820.
It is an honor and privilege to serve as your state senator.
Sincerely,
 
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