COVID-19 Update 4

Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Dear Friend,

It has been another challenging week in the Commonwealth. To those of you who are working at the forefront to overcome this public health emergency, to our doctors, nurses, EMTs, firefighters, police, janitors, store clerks, supply truck drivers, and countless others: Thank You! 

Shelter In Place Order - On Monday, Governor Northam issued Executive Order 55 that orders all individuals in Virginia to remain at their place of residence until June 10, 2020. While this will disrupt our day to day lives, infectious disease experts tell us that abiding by this order is the key to flattening the curve of the COVID-19 spread. Each one of us has an obligation to honor this order. Our families, our friends, our neighbors, and our communities are depending on us. 

The order allows for:

• grocery shopping, 

• seeking medical and emergency services, 

• taking care of others and animals, 

• court ordered travel,

• outdoor exercise (provided social distancing is observed), and 

• limited other travel (see the full order here). 

The order prohibits all gatherings of more than ten individuals. Campgrounds are to be closed to reservations of less than 14 nights. Public beaches are closed to all activity except fishing and exercise (both with social distancing). All state agencies will work with housing partners to assist Virginians in avoiding evictions and foreclosures. Violations of the executive order are a Class 1 misdemeanor. 

May Elections - As of today, May elections are still scheduled. The Virginia Department of Elections is strongly encouraging all voters to use an absentee ballot rather than coming to the polls on Election Day. You can find out more on how to vote by absentee ballot here. 

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. We are all in this together. Stay safe.

Sincerely,