Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - Governor Ralph Northam says Virginia will not be moving into "Phase 1" this week, when his order closing non-essential businesses was supposed to end. Northam insted extended the order a week, saying it is possible we could start reopening Virginia next week. The order runs through May 14th.
Northam says under Phase 1, social gatherings would be limited, but businesses could begin to open up again, albeit with restrictions. Social gatherings would still have to be 10 people or less. Face masks would be recommended, and teleworking would be encouraged. Northam expects that to last two to three weeks, and if the numbers support it, we could move into Phase 2.
Northam also backed off a regional approach to reopening, saying it could lead to travel and virus spread. Northam previously suggested he might be willing to go with a regional route.