WHAT SHOULD WASHINGTON WORKERS AND EMPLOYERS KNOW THIS WEEK?
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT...
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) forgiveness applications still being accepted.
There has been some confusion about whether applications for PPP loan forgiveness were due Oct. 31 but the U.S. Small Business Administration has reassured applicants there is no defined deadline. Business owners can still apply and use the simplified application which significantly reduces the time and paperwork needed for PPP loan forgiveness. Read the SBA’s “6 Things About PPP Loan Forgiveness You Should Know” for more info.
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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT...
COVID CASES SURGING, AGAIN
Wear a mask and continue to have fewer, smaller gatherings.
Last week the state Department of Health reported 1,047 new COVID cases in a single day, the highest daily number since July. DOH is urging people to continue wearing a mask and to continue having fewer, smaller and safer gatherings and interactions.
With the holidays approaching, the temptations to set aside these basic best practices will be hard to resist but we can all help each other by finding creative ways to maintain our connections with friends and family. Check out the state’s Safer Gatherings page for ideas and tips.
The current statewide rate of diagnosed COVID cases per 100,000 people over two weeks is more than 117. Public health officials say the goal is to be below 25. You can view county numbers on the state’s Risk Assessment Dashboard.
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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT...
VETERANS DAY
Veterans Day is next Wednesday, Nov. 11th.
Veterans Day – originally called Armistice Day – is an opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifice of military veterans. President Wilson, in proclaiming the first commemoration of this day in 1919, said: “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…"
“The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted life as we know it, forcing us to alter our behavior for the sake of public health. Veterans Day is no exception. Although many parades and public events have been cancelled for this year, there are still ways to honor those who have bravely served our state and our nation with dignity.
With COVID-19 transmission continuing to rise across our state, it’s now more important than ever to adhere to public health guidelines and to avoid increased risk during the holidays. The safest option is to observe the holiday with virtual events to protect yourself, family members, and the lives of those in your communities. I know that our veterans understand what it means to make personal sacrifices for the safety and well-being of others and I’m confident that they’re willing to rise to the challenge of defending Washingtonians from this disease.
In the days leading into Veterans Day, I urge you to continue wearing masks in public at all times, avoiding contact with others in large gatherings, washing your hands frequently, getting your flu shot (if possible), and staying home when you’re feeling ill. Together we will get through this. Again, I want to express my gratitude to the women and men who have served our nation honorably. I am grateful for your service. Have a safe and happy Veterans Day!” ~Governor Jay Inslee
Current openings for the Governor's Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee
Five positions are currently open on the Governor's Veteran's Advisory Committee. The committee serves advises the Governor and Director of the Department of Veterans Affairs on state programs related to veterans, their dependents and survivors. If you would like to apply or seek reappointment, please submit an application here.
Honoring our military heroes safely
Veteran’s Day may look different this year without the parades and large community events. But we know families and friends can be creative in finding safe ways to honor those who have served our country. Find a virtual event or plan a small gathering (ideally outdoors!) using this checklistto help everyone keep each other safe.
Resources from the Washington State Department of Veteran's Affairs
Our WDVA offers all kinds of resources for veterans and their families, from counseling and employment support to housing and veterans homes. Learn more about what they offer here.
Auburn Virtual Remembrance Ceremony - Learn more
Virtual Veterans Career Fair - Free for veterans and their spouses - Learn more
Resources from the SBA's Office of Veterans Business Development
The U.S. Small Business Administration has an Office of Veterans Business Development. Visit their site to learn more about the programs available to help veterans, service members and their families start or grow their business.
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Newsletter changes starting soon...
As COVID response and recovery efforts even out, we’re shifting from a weekly to a biweekly schedule. So don’t worry if you don’t see an update next week. We’ll continue showing up in your inbox every other week. Our Business Response Team remains committed to providing you the information you need to keep yourselves, your employees and your customers safe and healthy.
