Starting today, Feb. 18, the mask mandate for outdoor events and gatherings has been lifted by Gov. Inslee. We know lifting the outdoor mask mandate can give our community a glimpse of hope that the pandemic is nearing its end. However, it's important to remember that cases of COVID-19 are still being reported in Spokane County, and healthcare workers are continuing to provide critical care to those in the COVID-19 ICU.

Last month, the outdoor mask mandate was lifted by Governor Jay Inslee. Starting tomorrow, the indoor mask mandate will be lifted as well. However, there are still places in our community where masks will be required, including locations mandated at the federal level, healthcare settings, and some private businesses.