Wenatchee Times

Gov. Jay Inslee instituted new restrictions for the next four weeks to help curb the spread of COVID-19.

The restrictions took effect on Nov. 16 and will remain in effect until Dec. 14. Restaurant restrictions go into effect on Nov. 18, Medium reported.

"This spike puts us in a more dangerous a position as we were in March,” Inslee said during a press conference Sunday, Medium reported. “And it means, unfortunately, the time has come to reinstate restrictions on activities statewide to preserve the public’s well-being, and to save lives. These were very difficult decisions that have very real consequences to people’s livelihoods. I recognize that and don’t take those impacts lightly, but we must act now and act quickly to slow the spread of this disease.”

The state is committing $50 million in short-term aid to help businesses and employees impacted by the restrictions. The state is providing $20 million for cash assistance to those that have been hit the hardest and the remaining funds will be used for recovery efforts via business loans.