Washington businesses face $10,000 fines, closure for not following coronavirus rules

Businesses and employers could be fined more than $10,000 and forced to close if they don’t comply with Stay Home, Stay Safe plans, according to the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Wednesday, May 27.

Many businesses were forced to close or restrict operations in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic as Gov. Jay Inslee’s ordered people to stay at home apart from conducting essential business. But as many counties move towards Phase 2 of the Safe Start plan, guidelines were issued to businesses on how to operate and what restrictions would remain.

The Department of Labor and Industries, at the request of Inslee, created and enacted a set of emergency rules that give the department the authority to cite places that aren’t following the established guidelines.

“We’re all in this together, and most businesses are doing the right thing for our state and our communities. Unfortunately, there are some that are choosing not to,” Labor and Industries Director Joel Sacks said. “The coronavirus is a known workplace hazard and businesses must follow the requirements to keep their workers and the public safe.”

Businesses found to be in violation will be informed by the department and ordered to adjust or close immediately. If they do not comply with that order, they will be issued a workplace safety citation that carries a fine of nearly $10,000 or more.

The department will also conduct in-person inspections of some businesses in addition to contacting them via writing or phone call.

People can report businesses not following the rules by using the state form at bit.ly/2Xzif3i.

This story was originally published May 28, 2020 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Washington businesses face $10,000 fines, closure for not following coronavirus rules."