Vaccination proof required at Olympic Peninsula restaurants

PORT ANGELES, Wash. (AP) — People who want to enter restaurants and bars on the north Olympic Peninsula in Jefferson and Clallam counties must provide proof that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 beginning Saturday. North Olympic Peninsula Health Officer Allison Berry issued the order Thursday as virus cases and hospitalizations surge throughout the state. Berry says the goal is to make the businesses safer places to be, reduce virus transmission and allow hospitals to keep functioning. Many restaurants, bars, and venues in Seattle and statewide are requiring customers to show proof of vaccination as a condition for entry. Public health experts and hospitals also fear upcoming Labor Day weekend group activities and travel could further drive up virus surges.