6/9/20 Update
LEAD NEWS - Governor's Update: RVA & NoVa Enter Phase Two on Friday
 
During the Governor’s Press Conference today, he announced that both Northern Virginia and Richmond will be entering Phase Two of the reopening process this coming Friday. So, restaurants, lodging establishments, and attractions will all see additional restrictions lifted.

In addition, Governor Northam also stated that he is planning on calling back the Virginia General Assembly for a special session that will likely occur in early August. As we continue to learn more about when this special session will occur, we will be sure to alert you to any pertinent updates.

You can find the Phase 2 Guidelines here .
Virginia Business Coalition Letter to US Treasury and SBA regarding PPP Loan Forgiveness
 
Last week, VRLTA and several other business organizations in Virginia sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Treasury and the U.S. Small Business Administration. In the letter, we asked for the agencies to make the loan forgiveness process more streamlined, and easier and less cumbersome for small borrowers who lack the expertise to navigate the current process. You can view a copy of the letter here.
AHLA Releases Updated Safe Stay Guidelines
 
AHLA has released updated guidelines for the Safe Stay program. See the updated guidelines here .
VRLTA Statement on Supporting Local Businesses
 
VRLTA Members and Supporters,

The hospitality and tourism industries are built on making all feel welcome, and VRLTA’s primary role is to support these small and large businesses across Virginia, including those owned by minority entrepreneurs. These industries offer opportunities for an incredibly diverse employee base, as first jobs and for long-term career growth.

During this troubling time, the Association is working to support businesses and employees in a variety of ways. Through our Virginia Restaurant & Hospitality Relief Fund, we have contributed to the Holli Fund, WSLS Feed the Frontline, the BLK RVA Emergency Relief Fund, the Visit Loudoun Foundation Tourism & Hospitality Relief Fund among others. These current efforts are in addition to our ongoing support. We have always worked to actively engage diverse business owners and to recognize minority employees and businesses while creating an inclusive environment for all.

We are working on every front to help and support our members, as well as others in the hospitality and tourism industries, as they get back to business. We can’t wait to welcome all Virginians back.
VRLTA Press Release on ABC Regulation for Alcohol To-Go
 
Today, VRLTA sent out a press release indicating the importance of making alcohol to-go a permanent regulation. You can read a copy of that press release here.
Virginia Department of Health Update - Face Shields & Face Masks
 
We have received several inquiries from members asking if plastic face shields satisfy the face coverings requirement for staff. After consulting with the liaison at the Virginia Department of Health, we have been informed that face shields can be used, but it doesn’t satisy the requirement for face masks. 
Updated Virginia Restaurant Promise Printable Posters  

We've updated the Restaurant Promise Posters to reflect the changes for Phase Two. Links to print each size:


Continue to visit https://www.virginiaisforrestaurantlovers.com for updated information.