Statewide COVID-19 restrictions begin to relax

With data showing a decline in cases and COVID-related hospitalizations, the state is entering a period when restrictions can be lifted, Gov. Jay Inslee said last week. A date to end the indoor mask requirement hasn’t been set, but Inslee said the pause on elective surgeries and procedures at hospitals will end today.

Additionally, requiring people to wear masks at outdoor events with 500 people or more will expire Friday.

“I think it would be helpful for Washingtonians to have a goal and helpful for them to do whatever planning is necessary for that transition,” Inslee said.

The an...