There are three different directives that compel use of masks to prevent coronavirus transmission that effect Jefferson County residents:
1) Governor Inslee’s proclamation that covers employers and employees,
2) the Jefferson County Health Officer’s directive on mask use, and
3) the requirements of individuals businesses for public access to their private business (“No shirt, no shoes, no mask, no service”).
The Governor’s proclamation requires that employers and employees wear cloth masks in indoor settings (unless alone in a separate room) and in outdoor settings where a 6-foot physical distance cannot be maintained. Enforcement is through Labor and Industries occupational health regulations and penalties are strict.
The Health Officer’s directive of May 28, 2020 requires individuals not meeting one of its 5 exemptions to wear a face covering when in indoor public settings or outdoor public locations when a 6-foot physical separation cannot be maintained. Additionally, businesses are directed to not allow non-employees to enter or remain inside a building without a mask, except under certain circumstances.
And finally, businesses are free to set reasonable health criteria for people entering their buildings. Costco and Goodwill require customers to wear masks as a matter of corporate policy. Hospitals and clinics require patient and visitors to wear facial masks. This is a growing trend.