(Richmond, VA) – Virginia Governor Ralph Northam issued an executive stay at home order for all of Virginia Monday. The governor commended most Virginians for practicing social distancing and for taking other preventative measures to stop the spread of COVID-19. He expressed his frustrations with images and reports of beaches in the commonwealth being full of people not showing the concern the rest of the state is exhibiting.
The new executive order fifty-five which expands on last week’s order fifty-three will be in place until at least June 10th. Virginians are expected to remain at home unless they need to leave for food, work, exercise, or medical care. The new expansion has closed beaches as well as short term stays at campgrounds statewide. Today’s announcement also orders all institutions of higher learning to close in person classes and instruction. Businesses that have employees who can work remotely are recommended to allow those employees to do so.
The Governor made his message perfectly clear in his opening remarks saying, “Our message to Virginians is clear: stay home. We know this virus spreads primarily through human-to-human contact, and that’s why it’s so important that people follow this order and practice social distancing. I’m deeply grateful to everyone for their cooperation during this unprecedented and difficult time.”
During the course of the press conference Governor Northam announced that Virginia has been granted approval for federal coverage financially of all National Guard related activities in the state. Also, the USDA as approved the temporary expansion of the Virginia feeding program that will allow anyone in need of food assistance, not just those who met financial guidelines. The state will be completing the filing process for federal disaster relief in the near future. For individuals with other social service needs are asked to call 2-1-1.