Governor eases restrictions on Tuesday

Last Friday, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announced a four-phase plan to ease restrictions from the state's coronavirus stay-at-home order.

While more activities are allowed starting Tuesday, May 5, the stay-at-home order would be extended through at least May 31.

The first phase starting Tuesday allows retail curbside pickup, automobile sales and car washes by mid-May.

Ten counties such as Wahkiakum with a low numbers of cases and deaths may be able to open parts of their economy sooner if approved by the Department of Health.

Under the order announced last Friday:

High risk populations must continue to stay at home;

Recreation opens up hunting, fishing, golf, boating and hiking, subject to conditions;

Social and spiritual gatherings are still banned, but drive-in spiritual services are allowed with one household per vehicle;

Only essential travel is allowed, and

Essential businesses are open; others allowed to resume include existing contraction that meets criteria, landscaping, auto sales, retail curb-side pick-up orders, car washes, and pet walking.

There is a minimum of three weeks between each phase, with easing of restrictions dependent on a drop in the number of covid-19 cases.