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Governor extends COVID-19 restrictions to Jan. 4, announces $50 million more in aid   

December 8, 2020

PowerPoint slide saying "Current restrictions extended to Jan. 4th"The governor today extended restrictions originally announced on Nov. 15 to Jan. 4, 2021. He stopped short of expanding restrictions even further, meaning residential construction in Washington may continue under Phase 2 Construction Safety Guidelines.

$50 million in additional economic relief

The governor also announced $50 million in new economic relief to small businesses, adding to the grants announced last week. Eligible small businesses should apply by Dec. 11, 2020, as the state needs to distribute these CARES Act funds by the end of December 2020. **UPDATE 12/14/2020: Applications received by 12/11/2020 received priority but applications received after 12/11/2020 may receive consideration if additional funds are available.**

Find additional information on the grants and the link to apply here: http://startup.choosewashingtonstate.com/working-washington-round-3/

Looking to the future

BIAW continues to work closely with the governor’s office on these developments. As the legislative session approaches, we are developing proposals to continue new processes like remote permitting and inspections. We’re also asking to extend some of the regulatory assistance and deadline extensions our industry has received so we can continue to provide family-wage jobs and valuable tax revenue as Washington recovers from COVID’s economic impacts. We will provide more information on our legislative package and how to help soon.

COVID recommendations remain in place

We know how important it is for us to continue to be able to build and remodel homes. Thank you for your commitment to keeping your jobsites, employees, clients, family and friends safe. Don’t forget:

  • Wash or sanitize your hands frequently and avoid shaking hands or sharing tools;
  • Wear your mask whenever you’re outside your home;
  • Follow the rules for in-person social gatherings;
  • Practice social distancing of at least six feet as much as possible;
  • Stay home if you don’t feel well; and
  • Limit unnecessary trips outside your home.

Thank you for your dedication to keeping everyone safe and healthy on every jobsite and at home!

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