Inslee issues “Stay Safe – Vote Safe” proclamation

||| FROM GOVERNOR JAY INSLEE’S OFFICE |||

Gov. Jay Inslee issued a proclamation and guidance memo today clarifying application of COVID-19 requirements for voters and for voting service operations, including county elections offices, county voting centers and student engagement HUBs throughout the state.

“The right to vote is one of the cornerstones of our democracy,” Inslee said. “Even in the middle of a pandemic, it’s vital that everyone’s voices are heard. We are dedicated to ensuring that anyone can cast their ballot in a safe manner and we are protecting the crucial election personnel and volunteers that make this democratic process possible.”

Stay Safe – Vote Safe (20-75):

This proclamation temporarily suspends any COVID-related orders that could be interpreted to restrict access to voting centers and student engagement HUBS by persons intending to register to vote, obtain a ballot, receive assistance with a ballot, deposit a ballot or use other voting-related services.

Elections personnel are essential workers, and elections offices are essential facilities. In addition, voting, whether by mail or in person, is an essential activity.

Under this proclamation, gathering restrictions do not apply to voters who are in attendance at a voting center for the purpose of registering to vote or to cast his or her vote. All elections personnel and voters should practice physical distancing and use face coverings, as recommended by the Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control.

Individual voting and voting centers are protected under this proclamation, prohibiting any interpretations of “Stay Safe – Vote Safe” that would hinder access to and operations of voting facilities, access to in-person voter registration, ballot issuance and ballot deposit.

Read the memo here.

Read the full proclamation here.