2 gyms defying state shutdown order threatened with hefty fines
https://komonews.com/news/local/2-gyms-defying-state-shutdown-order-threatened-with-lawsuit-fine
WA AG Ferguson. Inslees henchman, is going to pursue a civil suit under 'Consumer Protection" Laws
OLYMPIA, Wash. – Two gyms that have been ignoring the state's shutdown order and have been repeatedly warned by state officials are now facing a lawsuit and hefty fine.
State Attorney General Bob Ferguson is giving the owners of Northwest Fitness Company in Puyallup and PA Fitness in Arlington one last chance to shut down within 24 hours of Tuesday morning or he will go forward with the civil suit alleging violations against the Consumer Protection Act.
Both gyms were given formal Cease & Desist orders on Friday and both were found to remain in operations Monday.
The state contends that not only is violating the shutdown order risking the health of its customers and employees but creates an unfair advantage against those gyms that are complying with the order.
“We understand the financial impact of Stay Home, Stay Healthy on small businesses, but that does not exempt you from the requirement to remain closed,” the Cease & Desist letters read. “It is also unfair to your competitors for you to be open for business while they are complying with the Proclamation and making sacrifices for the benefit of the community. Opening your business when competing fitness centers have closed as required by law to protect the health of all Washingtonians gives you an unfair advantage over your competitors. In order to level the playing field and ensure the market is fair for all, you must close your doors.”
Ferguson says the court can impose $2,000 fines per violation of the Consumer Protection Act. Any criminal charges would have to be filed by local prosecutors.
WHERE IS BILL BARR???