Yesterday, Governor Northam signed Executive Order 55 (link) issuing a "Temporary Stay-At-Home-Order."
There are a few restrictions that Executive Order 55 adds to the original list created by Executive Order 53 (link), which was enacted on Monday, March 23rd.
They are the closing of:
Higher education institutions
Public beaches
Private campgrounds
Though this is not a statewide government mandate, a violation of these orders is deemed a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Executive Order 55 expires on June 10th.
People can still visit their family members and take care of individuals in need. This includes taking care of pets and mowing the lawn.
Restaurants are still allowed to operate curbside and delivery services.
Businesses other than "recreational and entertainment businesses" as defined by EO 53 can continue to operate with 10 patrons or less and with proper social distancing measures.
The full list of approved activities is below:
Activities allowed by Executive Order 53
a. Obtaining food, beverages, goods, or services as permitted in Executive Order 53;
b. Seeking medical attention, essential social services, governmental services, assistance from law enforcement, or emergency services;
c. Taking care of other individuals, animals, or visiting the home of a family member;
d. Traveling required by court order or to facilitate child custody, visitation, or child care;
e. Engaging in outdoor activity, including exercise, provided individuals comply with social distancing requirements;
f. Traveling to and from one’s residence, place of worship, or work;
g. Traveling to and from an educational institution;
h. Volunteering with organizations that provide charitable or social services; and
i. Leaving one’s residence due to a reasonable fear for health or safety, at the direction of law enforcement, or at the direction of another government agency.
As this virus progresses, it is imperative that we continue to do everything we can to slow its spread. This includes following the CDC guidelines to:
Avoid close contact with people (a minimum of six feet separation).
Wash your hands frequently.
Refrain from gathering in groups larger than 10.
Stay at home if you are sick.
Sincerely,
Delegate Terry Austin
19th House District
