Barring a last-second change, tomorrow all of Virginia, including Northern Virginia, will enter phase three of the state's Forward Virginia re-opening plan. 

Under phase three, capacity limits on indoor retail will be limited entirely, so long as social distancing requirements can still be maintained. Please click here to view the state's phase three requirements and best practices; on page 13, you can view the terms for brick-and-mortar retail outlets. These guidelines will continue to be enforced by the Virginia Department of Health, which continues to have the authority to fine or close non-compliant businesses.

While retail capacity restrictions are being removed, masks continue to be required for employees and patrons, and businesses are required to post signage about safety -- these signs must inform patrons that anyone with COVID-like symptoms, or who have had contact with a known positive COVID case in the last 14 days, are barred from entering. 

Businesses must also continue making hand-sanitizing products available for patrons and employees, and they are also required to plot out floor space so that customers can easily maintain six feet of distance between one another at all times. Employees must also maintain at least six feet of distance, wherever possible, between themselves and customers.

While the looser restrictions, and the progress the state has made in reducing the  prevalence of COVID cases, are very good news, we must all remain vigilant. As we're seeing across the South and West right now, much of the progress we have all made in combating this virus is being rapidly undone. It is incumbent on all of us, for the health of our employees and our customers, as well as our businesses, to continue operating with safety at the top of mind. Please continue rigidly adhering to the state's guidelines, and all health-related best practices, and documenting your efforts to comply with them.

Sincerely,