This week, Governor Northam announced that, on July 1, Virginia will move into Phase Three of his Forward Virginia plan to slowly and safely reopen our Commonwealth.

While case numbers in Virginia continue to trend downwards, we are not entirely out of the woods yet. We must all continue to do our part to keep one another safe. That means staying home whenever possible and wearing a face mask when you do have to go out. 

In Phase Three, Virginia will maintain a Safer at Home strategy with continued recommendations for social distancing and teleworking, and the requirement that individuals wear face coverings in indoor public settings. The maximum number of individuals allowed in social gatherings will increase from 50 to 250 people. All businesses should continue to follow physical distancing guidelines, frequently clean and sanitize high contact surfaces, and keep enhanced workplace safety measures in place. 

Restaurant and beverage establishments are required to maintain six feet of distance between tables, fitness centers may open indoor areas at 75 percent occupancy, and recreation and entertainment venues at may operate at 50 percent occupancy, or a maximum of 1,000 persons. Swimming pools may also expand operations to free swim in addition to indoor and outdoor exercise, diving, and swim instruction. Overnight summer camps will remain closed in Phase Three.

Phase Three guidelines for specific sectors can be found here. Phase Two guidelines are available here.

You can read the Governor's full announcement here, and click here for more information and answers to frequently asked questions.

Please continue to take care of yourselves and each other, and remember that my office is here to help. Be sure to visit the COVID-19 page on my website for more information and resources. If you have any questions or concerns, or if you need assistance, please don't hesitate to call us at (703) 256-3071.   

Sincerely,

Gerald E. Connolly
Member of Congress