FACULT Y SHOWCA SE
Like countless other college campuses, Seattle University has enforced public health measures since the spring of 2020 to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
CORONAVIRUS AND KOREMATSU How meaningful judicial review can clarify the scope of national emergency measures BY MA RGA R E T C H ON
Since early 2020, when Washington state first reported cases and deaths from COVID-19, the pandemic has upended the entire country. Seattle University shifted to virtual instruction, and our campus, usually full of energy, became eerily empty. Governor Jay Inslee then issued stayat-home orders. These, and subsequent emergency orders, rest on states’ inherent police powers to protect public health and safety. Similar measures promulgated across the country have greatly reduced the number of COVID cases and deaths, but they also have run into political opposition here and elsewhere. Before becoming a law yer, I was trained in public health. This instilled in me a robust appreciation of the important government interests embedded in the current pandemic emergency measures. The emptiness of the campus a year ago effectively prevented needless sickness and even potential deaths. Washingtonians’ consistent private voluntary actions and observance of public mandates have contributed to our state’s current ranking of 49th lowest out of 56 U.S. states and territories for total reported cases of COVID per 100,000. Our shared sacrifices have made our state safer for all. 24
LAWYER MAGAZINE Spring 2021
Photo by Seattle University Photographer YOSEF CHAIM KALINKO