Washington loosens COVID farmworker housing rules

Following appeals by Washington state’s leading agricultural groups, state regulators said fully vaccinated farmworkers do not have to wear a mask or socially distance at work or in congregate housing facilities.

That makes the rules for farmworkers like all other vaccinated employees in the state, according to a news release.

The state had previously said they would let stand COVID-19 restrictions for farmers and their vaccinated workers.

The easing of farmworker housing was welcomed by farm groups.
“Farmers are gearing up for the start of the summer harvest season and these updated regulations will go a long way to putting them on the path to economic recovery,” Washington Farm Bureau chief executive John Stuhlmiller and wafla executive director Dan Fazio said in a joint statement. “Farmers have always made safety a top priority. We have done the right thing by enhancing worker safety through testing and achieving among the highest vaccination rates in the nation. We’re pleased state regulators recognized this by following the science in reversing their decision and are lifting these economically devastating restrictions.”

The groups vowed to “continue taking all steps necessary to protect the health and well-being of farmworkers.”

Farmers across the state have been leading a comprehensive worker safety program focused on widespread testing and vaccination of workers living in licensed housing facilities. Nearly 100% of the workers living in these facilities have been tested and vaccinated, according to the release.