As of Feb. 15, all counties in Washington state had moved to Phase 2 in Gov. Jay Inslee’s Healthy Washington “Roadmap to Recovery” plan, including the North Central Region (Chelan, Douglas, Grant and Okanogan counties).

Since the governor’s announcement moving all counties to Phase 2, there have been no plans or guidelines announced for a Phase 3.

Rep. Keith Goehner, R-Dryden, who represents the 12th District, issued this statement:

“People in the 12th District and around Washington state have embraced the good news of being in Phase 2. However, it is important we do not get complacent. Folks have worked hard to follow the guidelines and restrictions put in place. They are lining up to get vaccinated and continue to mask up so we can get a sense of normalcy back in our lives.

“It is essential we keep moving forward. If we want folks to buy into a plan, we need one, a next step, an expectation of what is next — whether it is Phase 3 or a contingency plan to further open businesses, put people back to work and more kids in school.

“This is also an opportunity to limit the damage the closures and prolonged isolation has taken on our society and mental health. A new plan can offer hope for those who have been in despair and made significant personal sacrifices.

“No plan will be without risk during this pandemic, but we must continue to trust our citizens as they have worked hard and made many sacrifices to get to Phase 2. I look forward to a fair and equitable next step – hopefully sooner rather than later.”