Sen. Scott Surovell (D-Mount Vernon)

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Party: Democratic
District: 36: Fairfax County (Part), Prince William County (Part), Stafford County (Part) [map]
Took Office: January 2016
Next Election: November 2019
Committees: Commerce and Labor, Judiciary, Privileges and Elections, Rehabilitation and Social Services, Transportation
Age: 49
Website: scottsurovell.org
Twitter: @ssurovell
Copatroning Habits: 66% of bills he copatroned were introduced by Democrats. Of all of the copatrons of his bills, 86% of them are Democrats. Of all of the copatrons of all of the bills that he also copatroned, 56% of them are Democrats.
Partisanship
Tag Cloud: absentee voting alcohol children commendation constitution constitutional amendment court crime ctb custody divorce drivers license driving dss dui education election energy environment era marriage privacy regulation study sunlight tax transportation vehicle voting women
Bills Passed: 0% in 2021

Recent Mentions in the Media
Richmond.com: Virginia Senate committee backs bill to abolish the death penalty January 18, 2021 \| 1:31 pm
WFXRtv.com: Police: Man in custody in Virginia after Florida kidnapping January 18, 2021 \| 12:43 pm
8News: Bill to abolish the death penalty in Virginia passes Senate Judiciary Committee January 18, 2021 \| 12:32 pm
WFXRtv.com: Gun-rights group that brought thousands to Richmond for Lobby Day last year returns January 18, 2021 \| 12:07 pm
The Virginian-Pilot: Opinion: Virginia should seize this moment to abolish the death penaltyThe Virginian-Pilot January 16, 2021 \| 6:09 pm -
More Media Mentions >>

From the Legislator’s Website
This is Why We Need Limits on Qualified Immunity: My Bill to Make Police Officers Civilly Liable for Misconduct January 13, 2021 Last summer, several acts of police brutality against Black Americans and people of color forced Virginia to confront a long history of oppression and racial injustice. Although we have made substantial progress toward racial equality, implicit and explicit racism still persists in Virginia and across America. Last session we made significant progress modernizing the training, hiring, firing, discipline, and professional accountability for police departments. However, some issues were too complex to take up in a special session including enhancing civil court remedies for individuals who are harmed by law enforcement officers who violate constitutional and legal standards. This is often referred to as “qualified immunity,” although that is a very small part of the overall civil legal accountability framework. Qualified immunity shields government officials from consequences liability when they commit legal violations that are not well established in the law. Click Here to Read Overview of how the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled on qualified immunity cases In the special session, the House of Delegates passed a bill that purported to change the liability standards for law enforcement. I supported greater access to justice, but the proposed legislation was rife with unintended consequences. Basing liability on all constitutional violations provides a remedy for firearms rights or religious freedom advocates to challenge statutes such as our recently enacted firearm violence prevention laws. The Constitution of Virginia also contains rights that are not in the United States Bill of Rights including the right to hunt and fish or victims’ rights which create uncertain consequences. The special session was not long enough for us to fully consider the implications of this legislation and what comes next. In addition, during the special session, the Senate of Virginia passed legislation creating an officer Code of Conduct, prohibited chokeholds and shooting into moving motor vehicles, created a duty to intervene and set standards for use of deadly force. These standards will eliminate the applicability of any immunity defenses when those statutes apply. Click Here to Read through all the provisions of the Policing Reform Bill (SB 5030) Click Here to Read HB 5013 Introduced by Del. Jeffrey Bourne By establishing these standards, we can ensure that there are consequences for police officers who act outside of the line of duty. At the time, I said, “If there is any ambiguity of what the law is, qualified immunity kicks in. By making these changes to the Code of Virginia, by clarifying what is legal and what is not legal, we are taking qualified immunity out of the mix.” This bill established enforcement mechanisms within criminal law in the Code of Virginia. Full Statement from Senate Democrats after passing Policing Reform Package This session, I am bringing forward a bill that clearly states that police officers who violate the laws we passed last session and their employer will have civil liability. This will provide justice to victims of police and restore some balance to our justice system.
2021 COVID-19 Update Thread: Virginia’s Plan for COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution (In Progress), New Safety Measures During Surge, and Where to Get Tested December 18, 2020 *UPDATE Sunday, 1/17/21 at 11:00 A.M.* Fairfax County On Jan. 14, Governor Ralph Northam announced that people age 65 and older and people age 16-64 with a high-risk medical condition or disability that increases their risk of severe illness from COVID-19 will be moved into Phase 1b. This group, in addition to the 75+ year population, accounts for approximately 40% of all our residents over the age of 16. At this time the Fairfax County Health Department is unable to schedule appointments for everyone in these new groups while they continue to work through the large number of individuals who have registered over the last four days and are still awaiting appointment dates. Please note that due to limited supplies of vaccine, it may take months to get through Phase 1b. The ability to schedule appointments will depend on the supply of vaccine available. The vaccine supply in the U.S. is still very limited and is expected to increase gradually over the next few months. The Health Department will begin registering individuals in these new groups on Jan. 18. Click Here to Read the Full Article ‘Vaccination Registration Begins Jan. 18 for 65+ and People with Medical Conditions’ Fairfax County public and private school teachers and staff started receiving their COVID-19 vaccinations, Saturday, Jan. 16. The Health Department has partnered with Inova, which will administer the vaccine to this group. Here is the vaccination scheduling information for this third group: Public school teachers and staff have received scheduling information directly from Fairfax County Public Schools and Falls Church City Public Schools. Private school teachers and staff will receive scheduling information from the Health Department. Childcare staff will receive scheduling information from the Health Department. Click Here for Public and Private School Teachers and Staff to Register for a Vaccine Appointment For example, Fairfax County teachers and staff would click ‘Fairfax County Public School Employee’ then ‘Schedule an appointment.’ There will be a list of available days/times. The Fairfax County Health Department asks for your patience as it may take months to get through these priority groups. Click Here to Read the Full Article about ‘What You Need to Know if You Have Registered to Get a Vaccine Appointment’ Click Here for Status Updates about COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution for Priority Groups Waiting for First Dose Appointments If you have registered to get vaccinated and already have an appointment scheduled to receive your first dose, please keep your appointment. We have adequate vaccine supply for appointments that have already been scheduled. If you have already registered to get vaccinated but have not received an appointment, please note the following: First of all, do not worry. Vaccinating you is our priority and we will do so based on scheduling and supply availability. We will email you to schedule an appointment when we have vaccines available to do so. We are releasing these appointments as supply becomes available. You will remain registered for your vaccination and do not need to re-submit your information. Even though more groups are becoming eligible for vaccination, all appointments are being scheduled in the order that they are received. This means that adults age 75 and older who have already registered will have priority over those who register in the future. The Health Department will send you periodic updates while you are on the waitlist about your status. Second Dose Process While vaccine supply continues to remain very limited, we expect to receive enough doses each week to provide second doses to people who have already received their first dose. Individuals who received their first dose from the Health Department so far have received the Moderna vaccine. It is recommended that the same vaccine is given at least 28 days after the first dose. There is no maximum interval between the first and second doses. Soon, the Health Department will begin offering Pfizer vaccine, which requires that the second dose be given at least 21 days after the first dose. Other vaccine products may be used in the future, so it is important that you refer to your “CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card” when making a second dose appointment to match the manufacturer of your first dose. The Health Department will send you an invitation to schedule your second dose during the most appropriate window based on your first dose date. You do not need to contact the Health Department to schedule your second dose and you do not need to complete the registration form again. Individuals who received vaccines from Inova or Reston hospitals should reach out to their vaccinator for information on second dose scheduling. *UPDATE Tuesday, 1/12/21 4:00 P.M.* Fairfax and Prince William Counties to begin COVID-19 Vaccination Phase 1b on Monday, January 11 Beginning tomorrow, Fairfax and Prince William counties will be part of 11 health districts that the Virginia Department of Health will allow to add vaccination opportunities for the following groups in phase 1b including: frontline essential workers (i.e. police, fire, and hazmat workers), people age 75 and older, and people living in correctional facilities, homeless shelters or migrant labor camps. Meanwhile, these health districts will continue with phase 1a to ensure that people are vaccinated as quickly and efficiently as possible. This announcement comes several days after Governor Ralph Northam’s call to increase flexibility and speed up vaccination distribution in the Commonwealth. Click Here to Find Out Which Vaccine Phase You Are In And/Or How to Get Registered in Your County Click Here for More Information about the Press Release from the Virginia Department of HealthFairfax County The following chart guides each priority group on how to register for a vaccine. It also shows where they will be vaccinated. It is important to note that registering for a vaccine is different for each of the priority groups so please read the chart carefully. If you are not yet eligible, regular updates about vaccine rollment are published here. Click Here for an FAQ about Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine in Fairfax County Adults 75+ By phone: Call the Health Department’s vaccine hotline at 703-324-7404 (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.) to register for an appointment. Online Registration Step 1: Complete a Pre-Screen and Vaccine Appointment Questionnaire Click Here to Start Pre-Screen Step 2: Appointment Scheduling Within a few days, the Health Department will call or email you to schedule an appointment. Video from Fairfax County about Vaccine Phases: Prince William County The Prince William Health District’s normal business hours are from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m Monday – Friday. The Prince William Health District can be reached 24/7 by phone at 703-792-7300. I will update this blog post with more information how priority groups within phase 1b can schedule their vaccine as it becomes available. UPDATE FRIDAY, 1/8/21 12:00 P.M.* Virginia Cases (as of 5 pm on 1/5/21) Total cases = 37,730, new cases in the past 24-hour period= 5,387Total deaths = 5,226, new deaths in the past 24-hour period = 35 Virginia Department of Health Dashboard This dashboard will keep people informed about the number of vaccine doses distributed in Virginia and the number of doses administered. It is updated daily. The number of doses of vaccine administered shown on the vaccine dashboard will always lag slightly behind the actual number of doses administered. On January 6, Governor Northam announced new steps to accelerate the COVID-19 vaccination program. He is taking the following steps to help providers increase the rate of vaccinations as quickly, safely, and equitably as possible: Vaccination goal. Governor Northam set an initial goal of vaccinating 25,000 Virginians each day when supply allows. ‘Use it or lose it’ model. Medical facilities will be required to put the vaccine they receive into arms as soon as possible, or risk having future vaccine allotments reduced. Danny T.K. Avula to lead vaccination efforts in Virginia. Governor Northam appointed Dr. Avula, who serves as director of the Richmond City and Henrico County Health Departments to coordinate work between state officials, local health departments, hospitals, and private providers. Expanded priority groups. Governor Northam announced that K-12 teachers and child care workers will be among the next priority groups to receive vaccinations after Group A, and outlined the populations that will be included in Groups B and C. Elevating the Virginia National Guard. As the Commonwealth receives more doses, the Virginia National Guard will provide logistical support and help local health departments will administering vaccines. Group B includes frontline essential workers in specific industries, K-12 teachers and staff, childcare providers, adults age 75 and older, and people living in correctional facilities, homeless shelters, and migrant labor camps. Group C includes other essential workers, adults age 65 and older, and people age 16-64 with certain medical conditions or disabilities that increase their risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Click Here for Additional Information about the Governor Northam's Press Conference Click Here for Additional Information about Group B Click Here for Additional Information about Group C *UPDATE FRIDAY, 12/18/20 4:00 P.M.* The holiday season is in full swing and with it comes a surge of coronavirus cases due to holiday gatherings and travel. We are seeing longer lines to get tested across the country in an effort to gather safely. Testing laboratories have warned about supply shortages and delays because of increased demand. State and local officials are combating the recent surge of coronavirus cases by implementing new restrictions and expanding access to COVID-19 testing. The Virginia Department of Health has created a webpage dedicated solely to virus updates where you will find content that is updated daily. The CDC also has a dedicated website: Virginia Department of Health Center for Disease Control Here are some updates about the new restrictions and where you can get tested for COVID-19: New Statewide COVID-19 Restrictions Governor Ralph Northam held a press conference on December 10 about new safety measures to slow the spread of COVID-19 across the Commonwealth. “Executive Order Seventy-Two directs Virginians to stay at home between the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., implements a universal mask requirement, and lowers the limit on social gatherings from 25 people to 10 people. The order will take effect at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, December 14, and remain in place through January 31, 2021, unless rescinded or amended.” “Virginia restaurants must continue to adhere to strict social distancing and sanitization requirements. The on-site sale, consumption, and possession of alcohol remain prohibited after 10:00 p.m. in any restaurant, dining establishment, food court, brewery, microbrewery, distillery, winery, or tasting room. All restaurants, dining establishments, food courts, breweries, microbreweries, distilleries, wineries, and tasting rooms must close by midnight.” If you have been teleworking, you are encouraged to continue to do so if at all possible. As numbers are on the rise, consider talking to your boss about schedule rotations for in-office work as needed. Business owners should continue to consider additional ways to protect both their employees and customers. Click here to read Executive Order 72 Here is a link to all of the Governor's Executive Orders: COVID-19 Executive Orders Virginia Case Count At the moment, there are approximately 3,700 new COVID-19 cases per day in Virginia. This is over three times the statewide peak of 1,200 back in May. View Daily Case Counts by Locality New York Times How Virginia Plans to distribute the COVID-19 vaccine We have a responsibility to do our part to contain COVID-19. There is light at the end of the tunnel. The FDA has given emergency authorization for two COVID-19 vaccines with the first batch of 70,000 doses of Pfizer’s vaccine arriving across the country within weeks. December 4:Virginia Medical Disaster Advisory Committee decided how the COVID-19 vaccines would be prioritized. The committee’s resolution said, “The initial shipment of Pfizer vaccine should be distributed in its entirety to Virginia hospitals and health systems for administration to healthcare personnel who directly engage in the care of or interact with patients known or suspected of COVID-19, or who have direct exposure to potentially infectious materials from patients known or suspected to be infected with COVID-19.” December 12:Governor Northam said, “The first allotment of the vaccine will arrive in Virginia in the next 24 to 48 hours, and will be immediately dispersed to health care workers and residents of long-term care facilities. It will take several months to get all 8.5 million Virginians vaccinated. These measures are critical to limiting the number of positive cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.” December 14: The vaccine arrived in Virginia. A press release from the Governor’s office said, “Virginia health systems expect to receive an estimated 480,000 doses of vaccine from two manufacturers, Pfizer and Moderna, by the end of December.” Phased Approach to COVID-19 Vaccination: Phase 1: Health care workers, residents of long-term care facilities, and high-risk individuals Started on December 14, 2020 Phase 2: Frontline workers - ex: teachers, food preparers, police, firefighters, etc. Phase 3: General population Expected to begin early to midsummer 2021 Some groups may not be eligible until further safety tests are done, such as children and pregnant adults. Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination (CDC) Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions (FDA) COVID-19 Testing Sites in Fairfax and Prince William County Here is a list of testing locations in our region. Please follow the instructions listed as testing is often limited to those who have made appointments. A section of the Virginia Department of Health’s website is dedicated to providing information about known locations of various COVID-19 testing sites. It allows you to put in your zip code and find a testing location near you: COVID-19 Testing Sites Free Testing Locations (no proof of insurance required): Neighborhood Health @ South County Center 8350 Richmond Highway, Suite 301, Alexandria, VA 22309 By appointment only. Call to make an appointment. Phone: 703-704-5333 Neighborhood Health @ Richmond Highway 6677 Richmond Highway Alexandria, VA 22306 By appointment only. Call to make an appointment. Phone: 703-535-5568 Testing Locations (All major insurance plans accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid with no out-of-pocket costs): Patient First – Alexandria 6311 Richmond Highway, Alexandria VA 22306 Phone: 703-647-6087 By appointment only. Call the center and press “5” during the recording to speak with the front desk. Medical Access Alexandria 7598 Telegraph Road, Alexandria VA 22315 Phone: (703) 546-9881 Must take the Online Pre Screen Questionnaire and call ahead to schedule an appointment. Patients will be screened in their car. Accepts most major insurance plans Velocity Urgent Care – Woodbridge 16422 Navigation Dr. Woodbridge VA 22191 Phone: 571-297-1437 Criteria for Testing: Flights, Return to Work/School, Direct Exposure, and CDC guidelines. Must make an online appointment for COVID testing Spanish Language Materials and Forms Available Accepts most private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, and VA Benefits. We do not accept Kaiser. Walgreens – Jefferson Davis Hwy 14095 Jefferson Davis Hwy. Woodbridge VA 22191 Phone: 703-491-3630 By Appointment only. Appointments should be made online. Sample collection conducted by Drive-up. Testing available for those ages 3 or older. At this time, under HHS partnership (no charge to patient). Special Testing Events: Free COVID-19 testing is available for anyone who lives or works in Prince William County, the City of Manassas, or the City of Manassas Park. Participants must provide their full name, telephone number, and a home or work address in Prince William County, the City of Manassas, or the City of Manassas Park to obtain COVID testing and receive the results. Here is a list of the upcoming testing sites and locations. All sites can accommodate drive-thru or walk-up testing. To ensure you receive a test please arrive at the site as close as possible to the start time. Testing is only available until the allocated test kits are depleted at each site. Friday, December 18, 2020 Splashdown Water Park Start Time 11:00 AM \| Testing is only available until the allocated test kits are depleted at the site or until 1:30 PM, whichever comes first. 7500 Ben Lomond Park Rd. Manassas, VA 20109 Woodbridge Senior Center Start Time 4:00 PM \| Testing is only available until the allocated test kits are depleted at the site or until 6:00 PM, whichever comes first. 13850 Church Hill Dr. Woodbridge, VA 22191 Saturday, December 19, 2020 Enterprise Elementary School Start Time 9:00 AM \| Testing is only available until the allocated test kits are depleted at the site or until 12:00 PM, whichever comes first. 13900 Lindendale Rd. Woodbridge, VA 22193 Walk-up only, no drive-thru More information about testing and Prince William County's response to COVID-19 We will update this thread to include more testing locations as they become available. As always, please reach out to my office at 571-249-4484 or district36@senate.virginia.gov if you have questions or ideas about things we can do to serve the community better.
Winter Storm Watch for Wednesday, December 15: Here’s What You Need to Know December 15, 2020 It’s that time of year again. Winter in Northern Virginia is often a surprising blend of chill winter weather and unseasonably warm temperatures. Occasionally, snow gets thrown into the mix. This Wednesday, we might be in for some potentially hazardous winter weather. Frozen mix precipitation is likely, and 2-4 inches of snow could accumulate in parts of the district. In light of this week’s forecast, I want to share some resources that you can use to ensure that you stay safe and informed during inclement weather.Weather Updates Like with most weather forecasts, there’s a decent amount of uncertainty surrounding the conditions we might see on Wednesday. Some parts of the district might only get rain or freezing rain, while others might experience more severe forms of wintery participation. The National Weather Service is a great resource for monitoring weather conditions. Click Here For Weather Forecast School Closures Fairfax County School buildings will be closed tomorrow but school will operate virtually. Click Here For Fairfax School Closures Important Resources Dominion Resources Power Outage Line 1-866-366-4357 Dominion Resources Storm Center Outage and Restoration Updates Northern Virginia Outages Map VDOT Street Problem Number1 (800) FOR-ROADVDOT REAL-TIME ONLINE PLOW MAP Other Resources Dominion NOVEC Washington Gas Fairfax County Police: 703-691-2131 Prince William County: 703-792-6500Stafford County: 540-658-4400 Winter Storm GuidanceWinter storms can range from freezing rain or ice, to a few hours of moderate snowfall, to a blizzard that lasts for several days. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures, power outages and unpredictable road conditions.Before, during and after a winter storm, roads and walkways may become extremely dangerous or impassable. Access to critical community services such as public transportation, child care, healthcare providers and schools may be limited. Preparing your home, car and family before cold weather and a winter storm arrives is critical. During a winter storm, stay off the roads as much as possible and only drive when absolutely necessary. Always give snow plows the right of way. Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal burning device inside your home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any other partially enclosed area. Snow shoveling is a known trigger for heart attacks! Always avoid overexertion when shoveling. When severe weather occurs, plan to check on elderly or disabled neighbors and relatives. If you must travel, know road conditions before you leave home. Visit 511Virginia.org or call 511 for road condition updates. Protect yourself from Frostbite! Hands, feet and face are the most commonly affected areas so wear a hat, mittens (which are warmer than gloves) and cover your mouth with a scarf to reduce heat loss. Keep dry! Change out of wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer or heavy clothing. Snow Removal Due to COVID-19 restrictions that protect the safety of plow workers, it’s possible that plowing might take longer than usual this year. To track when your neighborhood will be plowed, visit the Virginia Department of Transportation’s (VDOT) plowing website, which activates after 2 inches of snow have accumulated in your county. If you live on a private street, it is the responsibility of the developers or the homeowner’s association to arrange for the street to be cleared. Call 800-FOR-Road (800-367-7623) for information on snow removal or to inform VDOT of any snow removal problems. TTY users can call 711. While there’s no legal obligation to clear the sidewalk in front of your house, we rely on residents to help keep neighborhoods pedestrian-friendly during snowy winters. Now more than ever, we’re encouraging younger residents who are able to assist their elderly neighbors with clearing their residential sidewalks to do so in a safe and socially distanced manner. Preventing unnecessary hospitalizations due to icy conditions is especially important during the current COVID-19 pandemic.Remember to exercise caution when driving, stay home if you’re able to, and make sure you’re informed before leaving your home. The VDOT website provides guidelines for how to commute and travel safely during snowy and icy conditions. Again, if you’re able to shelter in place, that’s always the safest option. If you live in Fairfax County, the Fairfax County Emergency Information site provides up-to-date information on the forecast and how the weather could be affecting road conditions, traffic, and public transportation. If you live in Prince William County, you can access updates on weather and traffic conditions on their emergency event information site. If you live in Prince William County, more weather-related resources and updates can be found on the county website. Resources for Unsheltered and Homeless During COVID-19 Winter causes anxiety for the homeless. Shelters are facing unprecedented challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. They must reduce the number of guests allowed inside to limit virus exposure. The economic challenges brought on by the coronavirus pandemic have caused increased unemployment. Here is a list of resources in Fairfax and Prince William County that are providing accommodations to the homeless with safety measures in place. Shelters in Fairfax County: Since 2005, the Hypothermia Prevention Program has prevented death and serious injuries among Fairfax County's most vulnerable residents by ensuring that no one must sleep outside during the winter months.The Hypothermia Prevention Program shelters opened on Tuesday, December 1, 2020, and will remain available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week through the morning of April 1, 2021. Individual sites will have capacity limitations due to social distancing, but staff will work to ensure that everyone has access to accommodations at one of the county’s shelter locations: Eleanor Kennedy Shelter9155 Richmond Highway, Ft. Belvoir Gerry Hyland Government Center, Suite 3098350 Richmond Highway, AlexandriaShelter locations are managed by New Hope Housing. For program-related information, please contact Jason Munoz at jmunoz@newhopehousing.org or Steven Lonon slonon@newhopehousing.org, or call 703-799-0200. Shelters in Prince William County: The Overnight Shelter for adults is now located at the A. J. Ferlazzo Building Gymnasium (15941 Donald Curtis Dr., Woodbridge) in order to maintain social distancing. It is open from 6:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. for 48 participants. Meals are provided, and showers are available. Transportation is provided every day at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. from the permanent location of the Overnight Shelter to the Ferlazzo Gym; and at 6:45 a.m. from the Ferlazzo Gym to the Bill Mehr Drop-In Center. The Bill Mehr Drop-In Center is still operating at its permanent location, 14716 Potomac Mills Road, Woodbridge, from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Monday through Saturday. To help maintain social distancing, up to 10 participants are allowed into the center at one time. There is a waiting area outside that provides shelter from the outdoor elements that also is set up to maintain social distancing. Meals and self-serve laundry are available. Showers are available for those who were not at the Overnight Shelter. For other types of service, such as Homeless Prevention & Diversion, Emergency Shelter, Rapid Re-Housing, and Permanent Supportive Housing, contact the CES at 703-792-3366. -------------------- Stay warm, stay safe, and look out for your neighbors.
Sixth Annual Puller Institute - Applications are Open! December 9, 2020 While the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the cancellation of many traditions, I'm pleased to announce that the 2021 Puller Institute will go ahead virtually this year. Each year, the Puller Institute has allowed a small group of future leaders-- exceptional junior and senior high school students-- to explore their passions for creating change in the 36th district by engaging with the state legislative process. My hope is that this program inspires a lifelong interest in civic engagement from the participants. I grew up in this area and I graduated from West Potomac High School. I know that you have unique perspectives on local issues. The future of our democracy depends on young leaders like high school students who have the energy and passion for social change. In past years, the selected students have been able to sit in on sessions in both the Virginia State House of Delegates and the Senate. This year, the Puller institute program will be conducted virtually over zoom. While it will be a big change from previous years, I’m thrilled that we’ll be able to accommodate a greater number of students than we have in the past. In addition to viewing sessions, participants will have the opportunity to meet with Virginia policymakers and activists. In past years, students have met with Governor Ralph Northam, Secretary of Education Atif Qarni, reporter Michael Pope, Former Delegate Kris Amundson, and Former Delegate Chris Saxman. At the end of the program, students will present their own state policy proposals to me. Former participants advocated for a wide variety of topics, including making standardized testing more accessible to students with learning disabilities, establishing mandatory AED training for school officials, and improving pedestrian safety in the district by increasing crosswalks. Some of my best legislative ideas have been inspired by Puller Institute pitches! The sixth annual Puller Institute program will take place remotely: Tuesday, January 19th 8:00 AM- 6:00 PM. The deadline for the application for the 2021 session is Tuesday, December 15th 5:00 PM, EST. Apply here: scottsurovell.org/puller-institute-application If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact my office at 571.249.4484 or at scottsurovell@gmail.com. My Chief of Staff, Philip Scranage, will be happy to answer any questions.
River Farm Update #4 - Grassroots Group Forms, Gov Northam Weighs In & AG's Investigating November 28, 2020 Here is the latest status update on River Farm. We have continued to have meetings among our stakeholder group working out a strategy to maximize the potential that River Farm will remain in public ownership. Here is what's going on. Grassroots Group Organized The Northern Virginia Conservation Trust (NVCT) has generously agreed to organize and lead a grassroots effort called Save River Farm to build support and raise private funds to support the purchase of River Farm by the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA). The new website is here - Save River Farm Website If you care about saving River Farm, it is important that you do two things right now: #1 - Sign up for email updates from the new group: EMAIL SIGN UP HERE #2 - Donate funds to help build private support. 80% of funds will be used for land acquisition, 10% for public advocacy, and 10% for administration. Donations are 100% tax deductible. DONATE HERE The NVRPA has also begun the process of seeking up to $2 million in grants from various public sources such as Virginia's Land Conservation Fund, but private support will also be helpful and support from other land trusts will be necessary to complete the transaction. Governor Northam Chimes In Last week, Virginia Governor Ralph Northam wrote to the American Horticultural Society (AHS) Board of Directors and asked them to work with our group to place River Farm into public ownership. Letter From Governor Northa... by Scott A. Surovell Fairfax County to Restrict Development Options Supervisor Dan Storck and Chairman Jeff McKay also secured the unanimous approval of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to have staff develop options to place an historic zoning overlay district on River Farm to restrict demolition and development. It will take staff a few months to develop options to be advertised and voted upon but they are in process. Fairfax County Board of Sup... by Scott A. Surovell Attorney General Investigation The American Horticultural Society was located in Washington, D.C. before moving to River Farm in 1973 and is still incorporated there. The District of Columbia Attorney General has opened an investigation into the possible sale of River Farm and whether it violates the donation restrictions of Enid Haupt. I am working with Senator Adam Ebbin and Delegate Paul Krizek to ask Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring to do the same. At this point, nearly 2,900 people have signed our petition. Please continue ask friends and neighbors to sign as a show of grassroots power! Sign the petition! Thank you for your interest and all of your support.
Weekly Column: Legislators Revised the Budget to Address Many Needs November 2, 2020 The following is my column that will appear in the Mt. Vernon Gazette, Springfield Connection, The Prince William Times, The Fort Hunt Herald, and Potomac Local in the week of November 2, 2020. Legislators Revised the Budget to Address Many Needs The General Assembly met over the last few months in a special session to finalize our state budget. We had to revisit the budget because in the last week of our regular, winter session, the COVID-19 pandemic started to flare up, the shutdown began shortly after and the economic damage and uncertainty made it impossible to build a two-year budget. Governor Ralph Northam proposed amendments that the General Assembly approved in April putting all new spending on hold until we had reliable revenue estimates. Two weeks ago, we approved a revised budget that takes a more modest approach than our original budget, but it still has some significant investments. First, we balanced our budget as required by the state constitution. Second, the budget leaves over $1 billion unspent in reserves because of continued economic uncertainty. It is a very fiscally prudent budget. Confronting COVID-19 and More The budget allocates over $300 million in new dollars to K-12 education to help with COVID-19 related expenses, like short-term technology needs, and it provides new flexibility to spend funds on virtual education. We are investing $37.3 million to expand early childhood education for three and four year-old’s and $35 million for at-risk youngsters. Expanding preschool pays long-term dividends because giving children a strong start early is important to their lifetime success. We also provided $94 million in new funding for colleges and universities, including an additional $7 million for George Mason University. We funded dental benefits for Medicaid recipients for the first time and increased funding for mental health, Medicaid personal care attendants and Temporary Assistant to Needy Families (TANF). We included major mental health investments including nearly $100 million for community mental health services, safe discharge practices and supportive housing for Virginians with mental illnesses. The budget includes $105 million for rental relief from CARES Act funds. We also are making an $85 million deposit to the Housing Trust Fund, the largest ever, to help with affordable housing. We put into law a utility disconnection moratorium until 60 days after the end of our state of emergency and are requiring Dominion Energy to forgive $127 million of customer utility debt by crediting it against company over charges. The budget also provides $100 million from CARES Act funds for utility assistance for Virginians who are in arrears. The pandemic has truly highlighted our broadband shortcomings and we appropriated $85 million for new broadband infrastructure, plush $30 million short-term broadband projects. We provided the Commonwealth Transportation Board flexibility to reprogram up to $1.1 billion from existing projects and authorized temporarily shifting mass transit capital funds to ridership incentives. We authorized the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to extend the validity of drivers’ licenses and vehicle registrations for up to 90 days after the end of the state of emergency and authorized DMV customers over age 75 to obtain legally allowable services either electronically or through the mail. We also are providing $300,000 for additional staff at Mason Neck State Park, new funds for water quality improvement grants and $11 million for land conservation investments. The land conservation funds could potentially be used to help purchase and preserve River Farm, which, its owners have announced, will be sold. The criminal justice reforms that I reported on last week require an additional $22.8 million in implementation funds. We also allocated $14 million to a new body camera fund that will provided one-time grants to law enforcement agencies that have not purchased these cameras yet. The budget provides funding for a new General District Court judgeship in Fairfax County that was authorized two years ago and 120 new and desperately needed deputy clerks across the state. The budget also funds 59 new public defender positions. We also funded a $1,500 one-time bonus to all state employees and a $500 bonus to state-responsible law enforcement such as our Virginia State Police. Virginia is in better shape that many other states. We accomplished all of this without tapping our Reserve or “Rainy Day” Fund which could very well be needed in the future. Please share your views with me at scott@scottsurovell.org.
Weekly Column: Special Session Update #2 - Building Trust in our Police Officers October 25, 2020 The following is my column that will appear in the Mt. Vernon Gazette, Springfield Connection, The Prince William Times, The Fort Hunt Herald, and Potomac Local in the week of October 25, 2020. Building Trust in our Police Officers This column focuses on reforms to Virginia’s policing practices, legislation I helped craft with Senator Mamie Locke. Last week, I reported on the criminal justice reforms that the Virginia General Assembly approved in our recent special session. Next week, I will discuss changes in Virginia’s budget. The video capturing the chokehold and murder of George Floyd shocked America and was a painful example of abusive policing experienced by the African American community for too long. These images galvanized a grassroots movement that demanded changes. The General Assembly tried to respond with needed changes in our laws. Diverse Input Sought During the drafting process, I sought diverse views in at least a dozen meetings with state and local law enforcement leaders. We held meetings with local officers on the street, community advocates, and heard testimony from national experts and state law enforcement leaders in a public hearing. Despite some media reports, Virginia’s law enforcement agencies supported most of these measures because most larger departments already train to these standards. Sixty of Virginia’s 430 law enforcement agencies are accredited by state and national organizations that confirm they hold their officers to high standards and follow best practices. No department trains officers to use chokeholds or shoot at moving cars, and accredited departments already utilize a use of force continuum and train to use deadly force only as a last resort. Improvements in Policing Practices Under Virginia’s current laws, if an officer commits misconduct, resigns mid-investigation and is terminated, there is no requirement to share that officer’s employment records. This is how officers who use faulty judgment remain employed, by “hopping” or moving to another department. Our bill requires police or deputies switching jobs to sign employment file releases, requires record sharing and eliminates the law forcing termination of a decertification proceeding upon an officer’s resignation. It encourages departments to require psychological screening for new hires. The bill requires training in racial bias, mental health awareness, substance abuse disorders and cognitive disabilities and creates a statewide mandatory baseline training. The bill prohibits law enforcement agencies from acquiring military equipment like mine-resistant personnel carriers, 50-caliber rifles and weaponized drones. Today, officers can only be decertified for conviction of crimes or positive drug tests. Our legislation creates an officer code of conduct and use of force standards that can be grounds for decertification. We also allow decertification for lying in court and withholding “Brady materials,” evidence tending to show a person is innocent. Our legislation criminalizes sex between officers and people in custody and prohibits chokeholds or shooting at moving motor vehicles except in self-defense such as what occurred in the shooting of Bijan Ghaisar in the Mount Vernon area. We require warning before deadly force is used if feasible and created statutory standards for the use of deadly force. The bill creates an affirmative duty for officers to intervene when they see another officer using excessive force. Virginia will become the third state to ban “no knock” warrants. A national ban proposed by Kentucky Republican Senator Rand Paul is pending in Congress. We also prohibited officers from serving search warrants after dark unless specific authorization is requested, justified and approved by a Circuit Court judge. Earlier in 2020, we passed legislation requiring annual reports on the race of citizens and outcome of traffic stops. We recently built upon that law by also requiring annual reporting by all Virginia’s law enforcement agencies on use of force and expanded reporting to pedestrian encounters where a search or arrest occurs. Making Records Available Commonwealth’s attorneys were frustrated by localities’ refusal to provide records in cases of police shootings. For example, Fairfax County’s delay in providing records in the John Geer case stalled prosecution for two years. Our legislation requires localities to turn over records to prosecutors for all criminal cases involving a police officer if the officer is being investigated or is a witness in a case. We hope these reforms will make our law enforcement stronger by further professionalizing law enforcement agencies, building community trust through expanding transparency and ensuring that “bad apples” cannot jump departments. It is an honor to serve as your state senator. Please email me at scott@scottsurovell.org with your suggestions.
Weekly Column: Special Session Session Summary #1: Criminal Justice Reform Delivered October 19, 2020 The following is my column that will appear in the Mt. Vernon Gazette, Springfield Connection, The Prince William Times, The Fort Hunt Herald, and Potomac Local in the week of October 17, 2020. Special Session Session Summary #1: Criminal Justice Reform Delivered Last week, the General Assembly special session effectively ended. Governor Ralph Northam called the session to adjust the budget after the economic harm caused by the COVID-19 crisis. After George Floyd’s May 26, 2020 murder and citizens’ demands for change, we chose to broaden our work and focus on three areas: criminal justice, policing reform, and the budget. I will address criminal justice reform this week, policing reform next week and the budget changes last. In early June, the Senate Democratic Caucus determined a limited focus on only policing would not address the bulk of harm inflicted by our criminal justice system. We invited suggestions and created a committee of Senators to vet 150 ideas which we narrowed to 28 objectives and 11 bills. First, we passed a racial profiling bill that prohibits police from stopping vehicles for violations arising out of subjective unverifiable judgments such as window tint or loud exhaust violations, and prohibited searches based on an allegation of marijuana odor in light of the decriminalization of marijuana last session. This will reduce opportunities for racially-biased enforcement. We passed legislation creating a framework for every locality in Virginia to have access to emergency mental health response teams by 2026. Treating psychiatric emergencies as mental health crises instead of law enforcement problems will bring appropriate help to people in crisis instead of criminal charges. The U.S. Department of Justice has authority to investigate police departments for a pattern and practice of racially-biased policing and negotiate consent decrees to alter behavior and the Obama Administration has negotiated decrees after deaths such as Michael Brown, Tamir Rice and Freddie Gray. The Trump Administration has negotiated zero. We approved a bill giving the Virginia Attorney General the authority and staffing to investigate Virginia law enforcement agencies to pick up where the Trump Administration has refused to act. I carried legislation that restored discretion to Virginia’s prosecutors. In the 24 years I have practiced law, I have never seen a judge reject a prosecutor’s request to drop a case. Judges in Arlington and Norfolk now routinely refuse to grant government requests to dismiss marijuana possession charges. My legislation requires a judge to dismiss a criminal charge upon the agreement of the government and a defendant unless a victim can establish racial bias or bribery. My legislation also allows plea agreements to defer charges for dismissal or reduced charges after the accused completes steps such as drug treatment, mental health counseling, community service and good behavior. This had been Virginia law until the last 10 years after conservative legislators pressured judges to cease the practice and Virginia’s appellate courts altered 200 years of Virginia law finding that measures like this were not authorized by the legislature. We reformed Virginia’s jury sentencing law dating to 1796, enacted when felonies could only be punished by the death penalty. Today, Virginia is one of only two states in America in which prosecutors can demand a jury to recommend a sentence. Juries give sentences that often range far higher than sentencing guidelines recommend, causing many accused people to forego a trial, even when they are innocent, to avoid lengthy sentences. This will restore balance to our criminal justice system and make our constitutional promise of a right to trial by jury a reality. The General Assembly passed legislation that allows localities to set up civilian review boards with subpoena power and real authority. Currently, many jurisdictions, including Fairfax County, have civilian review boards for police, but they are only advisory. We expanded Virginia’s program to give inmates credit towards early release if they are of good behavior, engaged in education and follow through on rehabilitation programs. Today, Virginia has one of the most restrictive earned sentence programs in the country due to measures proposed by now-U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr in 1995. We hope that these reforms will bring broader, structural change to Virginia’s criminal justice system and mitigate 200 years of outdated policies that have caused unnecessary harm and fallen disproportionately upon low-income people and communities of color. I was proud to be part of this historic effort. I hope you will share your views by emailing me at scott@scottsurovell.org.
Weekly Column: We Need a Better Redistricting Amendment October 5, 2020 The following is my column that will appear in the Mt. Vernon Gazette, Springfield Connection, The Prince William Times, The Fort Hunt Herald, and Potomac Local in the week of October 4, 2020. We Need a Better Redistricting Amendment Along with eliminating the Electoral College and reversing corporate contributions green-lighted by the Citizen’s United case, I consider the drawing of elected officials’ district lines to be one of the most significant, fundamental problems in American Democracy today. Question #1 on Virginia’s November 3 ballot is a proposed amendment to Virginia’s Constitution to create a decennial commission to establish districts for elected officials of the U.S. House of Representatives and the Virginia Senate and House of Delegates in 2021 and into the future. Our current system is flawed, but the proposed amendment is not the correct solution. The Redistricting Proposal Here is how the commission would work. The U. S. Constitution and Constitution of Virginia requires the state legislature to redraw congressional districts and state legislative districts after each census. The amendment would create the Virginia Redistricting Commission (VRC). The VRC would have 16 members - eight state legislators and eight citizens. The legislators would be equally split between the Virginia Senate and House of Delegates and further equally split between the majority and minority parties so that no party would have a majority. The citizen members would be chosen by a panel of five retired Circuit Court judges from lists submitted by the majority and minority caucuses in each chamber of the legislature. The amendment requires -- If no plan receives a majority vote within certain timeframes, the districts would be drawn by the Supreme Court of Virginia. A Flawed Proposal While I voted for this proposal in 2019 to keep the conversation going to 2020, upon further study, I have concluded it is not the correct approach and was one of two Senators to vote “no.” First, it is a bipartisan commission. It is not nonpartisan. Legislators would still be heavily involved in drawing their own districts. Citizen appointees would be chosen from lists likely created by legislators (that is still being negotiated). While one party could not steamroll the other, the language would force commission deal-making to preserve the electability of members unless the citizen members (probably picked by legislators) refuse to agree. My biggest concern is that the criteria for actually drawing the districts are not set forth in the proposed Constitutional amendment, so it can be changed by the state legislature because the criteria are in state law, a law that we adopted in the last session. Every Republican member of the General Assembly opposed it and when the legislature’s composition inevitably changes, the legislature will pass a bill creating new criteria that could require districts to be drawn to favor other partisan factors and effectively mandate a partisan gerrymander. A Better Approach Ideally, I believe apolitical redistricting can be more impartially done by computers using an agreed-upon algorithm that respects minority rights consistent with the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965, uses mathematical compactness and contiguity measures, and minimizes “wasted votes” or what is called the “voter efficiency gap,” a well-recognized mathematical model that objectively measures whether districts are drawn in a way that reflects the actual partisan make-up of the state. A slight deviation (e.g., 2 percent) could be authorized by a nonpartisan group to adjust lines to account for communities of interest, commuting patterns and other relevant factors. Such a process would come closer to removing political and human influences from the process. Laws can be changed by the legislature whenever the legislature chooses. The process to change the state Constitution takes more time and involves multiple steps. Provisions of the Constitution have longstanding effect and can remain there for generations. It is important that when we put language in our constitution that it be either written broadly enough to provide flexibility or if it is specific, it must be finely targeted and precise. The proposed constitutional amendment is neither. I will vote against it. Please email me at scott@scottsurovell.org if you have any feedback.
Virginia Lawyers Weekly Criminal Justice Reform Update September 22, 2020 Last week, I had the opportunity to sit down Peter Veith of Virginia Lawyers Weekly to discuss the status of the General Assembly Special Session and the status of Criminal Justice Reform in the session!
River Farm Update September 20, 2020 Last week, I met with Supervisor Dan Storck, Senator Adam Ebbin, Delegate Paul Krizek, representatives from the offices of Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, Congressman Don Beyer, and the Fairfax County, the National Park Service (NPS), and Northern Virginia Regional Park Authorities (NVRPA), and the Mount Vernon Ladies Association (MVLA). The purpose was to discuss a strategy to preserve River Farm. The NPS owns a conservation easement on the front two acres of the property closest to East Boulevard Drive. The American Horticultural Society (AHS) donated a conservation easement of seven acres along the river to the Virginia Outdoors Foundation. The remainder of the property appears to be unencumbered. We have not been able to determine whether Ms. Haupt's gift to AHS contained a condition to keep the property open to the public, but if she did, such a restriction was not recorded in land records. The NVRPA and the Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) are talking to their Boards about the feasibility of taking up this property as an operating unit. The NPS said the River Farm property fits within the mission of the Mount Vernon Memorial Parkway, but they would have many layers to work through before they could become involved and congressional legislation would help if that is the direction the community would like to take. The MVLA said that they do not have the capacity to take on another external property like this at this time and aside from being part of the Estate, it did not appear that this property had any specific historical uses other than farmland or forest. The Virginia State Park system likewise indicated that they have little experience operating a park unit like this and that it would be an entirely new experience for them. They are probably not interested. From the perspective of our group, the first order of business is to get AHS to consider selling the property to a public entity. We must then determine which agency would take lead on operating the property and then come up with a funding plan. The AHS Board is meeting this week to consider this entire situation. We are hopeful that after that meeting, we can initiate a discussion. We are having a second meeting this week and I have a meeting set up with the Acting Director of the AHS on Friday. Please continue to share our petition. We now have over 1,500 signatures and comments to share with AHS. Please continue to circulate the petition so we can get those numbers up as high as possible and show AHS that there is deep community support for a public use and opposition to private ownership. You can complete the petition here: www.scottsurovell.org/petition-to-save-river-farm/ Thank you for your support and let me know if you have any questions.
Weekly Column: Creating More Equitable Admissions Policies for Magnet Schools July 27, 2020 The following is my column that will appear in the Mt. Vernon Gazette, Springfield Connection, The Prince William Times, The Fort Hunt Herald, and Potomac Local in the week of July 27, 2020. Creating More Equitable Admissions Policies for Magnet Schools We need more equitable admissions practices in what are called “Governor’s Schools.” Earlier this month, Governor Ralph Northam appointed me to a task force with about 20 other individuals including Secretary of Education Atif Qarni to examine equity within our Governor’s Schools System. Governor’s Schools were created in 1973 to provide an intense, summer academic experience to high-achieving students and were later expanded to full-year programs, including Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) in Fairfax County which also serves Prince William and Arlington Counties. I have often expressed concerns about TJHSST’s admissions practices. Very few children from eastern Fairfax or Prince William Counties are admitted. When I reviewed data few years ago, fewer than five children had been admitted out of 125 applicants from Walt Whitman Intermediate School. In the most recent freshman class, there were none or there were so few African American students admitted that Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) was prohibited from releasing the actual number. This history means that the student population in these schools is very unrepresentative of Northern Virginia, a region with a very diverse population. TJHSST’s current student population has less than 2% “economically disadvantaged” students as measured by students that receive free and reduced lunches. The feeder, non-Fairfax County jurisdictions all are 27.3% economically disadvantaged. TJHSST’s current student population is now 70% Asian, 25% White and less than 2% Black and Hispanic, while its feeder jurisdictions are 18% Asian, 39% White, 11% Black, and 27% Hispanic. Over 25% of each class’s admissions come from two middle schools – Rachel Carson in Reston/Herndon and Longfellow in Falls Church. Most of the middle schools that are in eastern Fairfax and Prince William Counties have fewer than five students – often zero – admitted students. The problems leading to these results start in elementary school. There is well-documented research indicating that minority children are often not identified or encouraged to participate in elementary gifted and talented programs. There is also a strong correlation between recommendations and the race of the teacher. In other words, low numbers or the absence of minority teachers is associated with fewer minority children recommended for gifted programs. Economically disadvantaged families are not aware of such programs and do not advocate for their children to enroll in them. Schools with large economically disadvantaged student populations have fewer gifted programs. We also heard some surprising testimony. First, gifted and talented programs arose during the 1960s in response to school desegregation efforts and also have their roots in eugenics research. Admissions to gifted programs are also keyed solely to intelligence instead of other variables such as creativity, problem-solving ability or other talents. TJHSST’s principal pointed out that TJHSST’s success – measured by standardized test performance -- has brought international acclaim which has encouraged “Thomas” branded prep elementary schools to arise in foreign counties that feed students into specific Fairfax County middle schools for admissions after families obtain visas. She said that private test preparation programs pay students to remember certain questions and report them back so they can prepare students in $14,000/year TJHSST preparation programs that meet regularly with their own homework and curriculum. Many have been aware of these facts for over a decade and little action has been taken which is why the General Assembly needs to act. There are multiple admissions approaches that could be used. TJHSST currently uses an admissions test and an essay. According to the research, this type of admissions program is the mostly likely of any to favor family wealth over any other admissions factor, like a child’s ability. Let me be clear: We are not considering a racial quota system. That is unconstitutional. We will consider recommending alternate admissions processes that cannot be gamed by wealthy or advantaged families such as a lottery system with equitable scoring systems, middle school admissions minimums or caps, offering admission to top students of each middle school and allowing competition for remaining spots or other processes. We will also consider eliminating Governor’s Schools if they are unable to adopt more equitable admissions policies. I hope you will share your views with me. Please send me an email at scott@scottsurovell.org. It is an honor to serves as your state Senator.
COVID-19 Update Thread May 20, 2020 As you probably know, our region has confirmed multiple cases of COVID-19, the new coronavirus. The Virginia Department of Health has created a webpage dedicated solely to virus updates where you will find content that is updated daily. The CDC also has a dedicated website. Virginia Department Of Health Center For Disease Control If you are a healthcare professional evaluating a patient for suspected COVID-19, please contact your local health department immediately. Here is a link to all of the Governor's Executive Orders: COVID EXECUTIVE ORDERS As always, please reach out to my office at 571-249-4484 or district36@senate.virginia.gov if you have questions or ideas about things we can do to serve the community better. I will continue to add updates below. *UPDATE MONDAY, 6/29/20 2:30 P.M.* New Housing Assistance Program The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) will administer the $50 million program through a variety of partners, including nonprofit organizations and local governments, which will receive upfront funds that they will distribute on behalf of eligible households. Individuals and families receiving funding will also be connected to housing counseling and receive other technical assistance. Eligible households must demonstrate an inability to make rent or mortgage payments due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Monthly rent or mortgage must be at or below 150 percent Fair Market Rent (FMR), and eligible households must have a gross household income at or below 80 percent of area median income (AMI). Learn More And Determine Your Eligibility *UPDATE FRIDAY, 6/26/20 11:00 A.M.* DMV Credentials Extended Governor Northam announced an amendment to Executive Directive Seven (ED 7) to further extend the validity of credentials issued by DMV. The Fourth Amended ED 7 extends the validity of every driver, vehicle, and special identification credential due to expire on or before July 31, 2020 for up to an additional 90 days not to exceed October 31, 2020. This means that a customer whose credential expires between March 15 and April 30 has an additional 90 days added to the prior 90 days, effectively 180 days, beyond the expiration date to renew. Customers whose credential expires between May 1 and July 31 will have up to 180 days beyond the expiration date to renew, not to exceed October 31, 2020. Customers with a credential that expires after July 31 must renew the credential before its expiration date. This extension will give customers with expiring credentials more time to schedule appointments to complete their DMV business. Schedule A DMV Appointment *UPDATE TUESDAY, 6/23/20 2:30 P.M.* Phase 3 Reopening Guidelines Governor Northam released information about the 3rd phase of reopening. Virginia will enter Phase 3 next Wednesday, July 1. Full Guidance For Business Sectors Rental Assistance In PWC Update On Nursing Homes Nursing homes are able to open to visitation in Phase 3 of reopening. Data from Nursing home outbreaks is now available on the Virginia Dept. of Health website. Resources for Nursing Homes and Data on Outbreaks *UPDATE TUESDAY, 6/16/20 11:00 A.M.* Virginia Career Works Referral Portal On Friday, Governor Northam announced a new tool for Virginia workers and job seekers. The Virginia Career Works Referral Portal helps Virginians take full advantage of the support services available through the Commonwealth’s workforce system. The platform is designed to streamline intake processes across state agencies and connect individuals with training, certification, education, and employment services to help them find a job or advance a career path. Guide to navigating the portal DMV Openings On June 22, the Alexandria, Chesapeake, Fairfax Westfields, and Gate City CSCs will reopen. See the attached news release for more information. Constituents wishing to make an appointment for service at one of these offices can visit www.dmvNOW.com/appt. Appointments are available 30 days out. Confirm hours and view important DMV messages *UPDATE TUESDAY, 6/9/20 5:30 P.M.* Guidance For Reopening Schools Local school divisions will have discretion on how to operationalize within each phase and may choose to offer more limited in-person options than the phase permits, if local public health conditions necessitate. Entry into each phase is dependent on public health gating criteria, corresponding with the Forward Virginia plan. School divisions will have flexibility to implement plans based on the needs of their localities, within the parameters of the Commonwealth’s guidance. The opportunities for in-person instruction in each phase are as follows: Phase One: special education programs and child care for working families Phase Two: Phase One plus preschool through third grade students, English learners, and summer camps in school buildings Phase Three: all students may receive in-person instruction as can be accommodated with strict social distancing measures in place, which may require alternative schedules that blend in-person and remote learning for students Beyond Phase Three: divisions will resume “new-normal” operations under future guidance. More Information About The Reopening Process *UPDATE TUESDAY, 6/9/20 2:30 P.M.* Update On Eviction Moratorium The Chief Justice’s order issued today remains in effect through June 28 and modifies the Court’s earlier Declaration of Judicial Emergency in response to COVID-19. The temporary moratorium will halt all eviction proceedings for a period of nearly three weeks, as the Northam administration implements a comprehensive rent relief program for the thousands of Virginians facing housing insecurity in the midst of this public health crisis. Details of the Governor’s rent relief initiative, supported by federal CARES Act funding, will be announced in the coming weeks. Tenants are encouraged to know their rights and responsibilities and pay their rent on time if they are able. Please visit StayHomeVirginia.com for more information and resources on tenant rights. Read The Full Judicial Order *UPDATE TUESDAY, 6/2/20 9:00 P.M.* Update on Phase 2 Reopening Most of Virginia is expected to enter Phase Two on Friday, June 5, as key statewide health metrics continue to show positive signs. Virginia’s hospital bed capacity remains stable, the percentage of people hospitalized with a positive or pending COVID-19 test is trending downward, no hospitals are reporting PPE shortages, and the percent of positive tests continues to trend downward as testing increases. The Governor and Virginia public health officials will continue to evaluate data based on the indicators laid out in April. Under Phase Two, the Commonwealth will maintain a Safer at Home strategy with continued recommendations for social distancing, teleworking, and requiring individuals to wear face coverings in indoor public settings. The maximum number of individuals permitted in a social gathering will increase from 10 to 50 people. All businesses should still adhere to physical distancing guidelines, frequently clean and sanitize high contact surfaces, and continue enhanced workplace safety measures. Restaurant and beverage establishments may offer indoor dining at 50 percent occupancy, fitness centers may open indoor areas at 30 percent occupancy, and certain recreation and entertainment venues without shared equipment may open with restrictions. These venues include museums, zoos, aquariums, botanical gardens, and outdoor concert, sporting, and performing arts venues. Swimming pools may also expand operations to both indoor and outdoor exercise, diving, and swim instruction. The current guidelines for religious services, non-essential retail, and personal grooming services will largely remain the same in Phase Two. Overnight summer camps, most indoor entertainment venues, amusement parks, fairs, and carnivals will also remain closed in Phase Two. Visit virginia.gov/coronavirus/forwardvirginia for more information and answers to frequently asked questions. Phase Two guidelines for specific sectors Phase One guidelines sectors The full text of Executive Order Sixty-Five and Order of Public Health Emergency Six The full text of amended Executive Order Sixty-One *UPDATE MONDAY, 6/1/20 2:00 P.M.* Update from Metro In the interest of public safety and in light of an announced 7 p.m. citywide curfew in the District of Columbia, all Metrorail and Metrobus service will end earlier than normal today, Monday, June 1. The rail system will close one hour early, at 8 p.m., and Metrobus service will end two hours early, at 9 p.m. Customers are advised of the following service changes: Metrorail will close at 8 p.m. (one hour early). Last trains will depart downtown transfer stations at that time. Inbound service (toward downtown) will end earlier than 8 p.m. Please adjust your travel. Alternate transportation will not be provided. Metrobus service will be suspended systemwide at 9 p.m. Buses that are scheduled to begin service at or after 9 p.m. will not operate. However, buses that are already in service at 9 p.m. will continue operating to the end of the line before going out of service. MetroAccess will not begin any new trips (i.e. “outbound” service from customers’ residences) after 9 p.m. Customers with existing reservations will be contacted by the MetroAccess service center. These changes apply to Monday, June 1, only. Metro will announce any additional adjustments as necessary. As a reminder, current Metro service levels are reduced and capacity is extremely limited due to the Covid-19 pandemic and social distancing guidelines. Customers should consider alternate travel options whenever possible and use Metro only if necessary for essential needs. More Information From Metro *UPDATE FRIDAY, 5/29/20 3:30 P.M.* Food Distribution In Fairfax County *UPDATE FRIDAY, 5/29/20 1:30 P.M.* Limited Reopening of Public Beaches Governor Northam announced that Virginia’s public beaches and racetracks will be able to re-open on a limited basis, starting May 29. Public beaches have been restricted to fishing and exercise only. They will be allowed to open to other recreational activities, but social distancing and cleaning will be required. Other restrictions include no gatherings of more than ten people, no tents, no alcohol, and no group sports. Amended Executive Order 61 *UPDATE THURSDAY, 5/28/20 4:30 P.M.* DMV Credentials and Appointments Governor Northam amended Executive Directive Seven, extending the validity of DMV-issued credentials to accommodate Virginians with driver’s licenses, identification cards, and vehicle registrations expiring during the COVID-19 health emergency. The validity of driver’s licenses and identification cards expiring on or before July 31, 2020 is now extended 90 days, not to exceed August 31, 2020. A customer whose credential expires between March 15 and May 31 has 90 days beyond the expiration date to renew. Credentials expiring from June 1 to July 31 must be renewed no later than August 31, 2020. Vehicle registrations that expire in March, April, and May are also extended for 90 days, while those expiring in June are extended for 60 days, and those expiring in July are extended for 30 days. We are alerting customers of the extensions through our website, a news release issued to statewide news media, and social media. In addition to credential extensions, we continue to reopen customer service centers (CSC) across the state for appointment-only service for specific services. Tomorrow, the Richmond Central CSC and the Onancock CSC will reopen. On June 1, the Arlington, Franconia, Leesburg, Prince William/Manassas, and Tysons Corner CSCs will reopen. Constituents wishing to make an appointment for service at one of these offices can visit www.dmvNOW.com/appt Amended Executive Directive 7 *UPDATE THURSDAY, 5/28/20 12:00 P.M.* Information for Transit RidersIf you need to use transit for essential travel, PRTC prepared a list of helpful links with guidance on how to follow the new executive order as it relates to transit and other items.Useful Information for Transit Riders Faith Communities The CDC issued general considerations to help communities of faith discern how best to practice their beliefs while keeping their staff and congregations safe. CDC Guidance for Faith Communities Testing Available at CVS CVS Health will begin offering self-swab tests in the Commonwealth to individuals meeting Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria. Testing will be scheduled online and take place in Virginia at select CVS Pharmacy locations through the pharmacy drive-thru window; no testing will take place in-store. The following locations in our region are offering tests: CVS Pharmacy, 6400 Landsdowne Center, Alexandria, VA 22315 CVS Pharmacy, 16712 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Dumfries, VA 22026 CVS Pharmacy, 6360 Hoadly Road, Manassas, VA 20112 CVS Pharmacy, 902 Garrisonville Road, Stafford, VA 2255 Sign up for an appointment starting tomorrow here: Get an Appointment for COVID testing at CVS *UPDATE TUESDAY, 5/26/20 2:30 P.M.* Face Covering Requirements Face coverings will be required as explained in the graphic below and in the executive order linked above. Full Text of Executive Order 63 *UPDATE TUESDAY, 5/26/20 12:30 P.M.* PPE Supply Chain ManagementThe Virginia Emergency Support Team (VEST) has coordinated with Amazon to ensure organizations on the frontlines of the COVID-19 response in the Commonwealth can purchase critically needed personal protective equipment (PPE) through Amazon Business on a prioritized basis. This opportunity is available to hospitals, health clinics, doctor’s offices, and other medical care providers. In order to participate in this program, a business must first sign up on Amazon Business. Healthcare Provider PPE Sign Up As with many other supply chain routes, PPE supplies through Amazon are limited depending on current demand and inbound shipments. Nevertheless, this option can serve as a prioritized source of PPE for Virginia’s medical providers that are experiencing disruptions in their normal supply chain.There is another source for PPE that brings Virginia businesses together to both source and obtain PPE. The Virginia Manufacturer’s Association has partnered with Virginia businesses to create a website that serves as a clearinghouse for businesses seeking PPE.Access PPE Clearinghouse *UPDATE FRIDAY, 5/22/20 3:00 P.M.* Covid-19 Symptoms Self-CheckThe Virginia Department Of Health launched a new platform to help you determine whether you should get a test for the virus. You can find the new tool at the link below. There are also numerous community testing opportunities in our region.VDH Symptom Check Tool Find a Testing Site In Fairfax County Find a Testing Site in Prince William County Find a Testing Site in Stafford County *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 5/20/20 11:00 A.M.* PPE for PWC BusinessesThe Prince William Department of Economic Development has partnered with the county’s Emergency Operations Center to ensure public safety takes precedence as we prepare for Phase 1. A limited supply of cloth masks and hand sanitizer are available for businesses in need. While we invite all businesses to submit a request, high-risk businesses and those in essential industries will take priority.All requests must be submitted no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, 2020.SUBMIT A REQUEST NOTE: Distribution is limited to one mask per working employee and a maximum of one five-gallon container of hand sanitizer per business.If supplies are available for your business, you will receive an email with a date, time and location to pick up your supplies. *UPDATE MONDAY, 5/18/20 5:30 P.M.* Testing The state is tracking both diagnostic, antibody, antigen tests Initially, they were reporting them out in one bucket There were no antibody tests until 3-4 weeks ago They didn't realize they were being combined until about 8-9 days ago As soon as that was known, they separated them - it took a few days Now they are reported as total tests and PCR tests Antibody tests are increasing and will continue to improve going forward Remdesevir FDA has approved it for inpatient people with severe COVID disease (low O2 saturation) There was an initial distribution by HHS to hospitals with a high COVID census Virginia got 33 cases of the drug and then another 10 cases on May 11 and then 99 cases on May 15 VDH holds those and the distribution plan was informed by a subcommittee of the Virginia Emergency Support Team Activiies for Phase I were determined by the JHU Risk Matrix It looks at number of contact, closeness of contacts, etc. which is why restaurants were impacted VDEM has put together an emergency vendor list for small businesses to use to get back up and running Guidance for Private Beaches and Pools They are allowed to be open by 10+ person limitation applies Personal pools - open but gathering ban applies Communities in Phase I, community pools are under the same restrictions, lane swimming only for outdoor pools Diversity/Inclusion Update They are making extra efforts to disburse PPE and testing in communities of color They have partnered with Richmond, Harrisonburg and Cheseapeake to do successful pilots distributing 20,000 masks and 20,000 hand santiziers to those localities They are prioritizing Roanoke, Petersburg, and NOVA localities There was a donation of 200,000 masks to go to correctional facilities Public Beaches Only Virginia Beach would like more access in advance of Phase II Administration is working separately with Phase II The City came forward with a proposal for enhanced beach access - enhanced law enforcement presence, beach ambassadors, etc. Governor announced VA Beach will open on Friday Not all activities will be allowed We will look at other jurisdictions for Phase II Education Update Today, Governor announced a COVID-19 Education and Recovery Group Short goals is continuation of learning Long term they plan on being around 12-18 months In the next two weeks hoping to roll out some very detailed plans for reopening Many schools are doing drive-by graduations - they are issuing guidance on that Elections Update Localities cannot proactively mail ballots A voter must request the ballot first A PR campaign is beingin 2016/2018 we saw 16,000 absentee ballots in local elections, as of noon today we have 55,000 *UPDATE MONDAY, 5/18/20 1:15 P.M.* Relief for Fairfax County Non-ProfitsThe Fairfax County Board of Supervisors has established a $5 million fund to support 501(c)3 and 501(c)19 nonprofit organizations, whose primary work currently supports social safety net services to vulnerable populations within Fairfax County. The program will be funded with stimulus funds from the federal CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Fund. Learn More and Apply For Relief *UPDATE SATURDAY, 5/16/20 10:20 A.M.* Information for homeowners, renters, landlords, and homelessVirginia Housing Development Authority has partnered with Governor Northam to create StayHomeVirginia.com, a website for housing-centered information about programs, services and resources to help those who have experienced job or income loss and other impacts due to COVID-19. This includes guidance on how to work with landlords, financial institutions and others to sustainably utilize temporary eviction and foreclosure protections during this crisis.Learn more about Resources for Virginians *UPDATE FRIDAY, 5/15/20 12:30 P.M.* PWC Mutual AidPrince William County Mutual Aid is a collaborative effort by former and current PWCS students and residents looking to bring community members in need of resources and services to community members who can offer them. Make a Donation Offer Make a Request Learn More about PWC Mutual Aid *UPDATE THURSDAY, 5/14/20 12:00 P.M.* Update on Hiring Contact TracersThe Virginia Department of Health is recruiting for 1,300 contractors in these areas: COVID-19 case investigator (district) - 200 positions COVID-19 contact tracer (district) - 1,000 positions COVID-19 testing coordinator (regional) - 10 positions COVID-19 contact tracing supervisor (regional) - 10 positions COVID-19 data manager (district) - 70 positions COVID-19 analytics coordinator (regional) - 5 positions If you are interested in any of these positions, please click the link below for a list of staffing agencies where you can apply. You should indicate that you want to apply for a COVID-19 position through the Virginia Department of Health.Contact Information For Staffing Agencies Relief for Fairfax Small Businesses and Non-Profits Next month, Fairfax County will open a grant program to provide immediate relief assistance to small businesses and non-profits affected by COVID-19. Criteria is primarily based on an organization's size, location, and time in operation. Learn More About Grant Program Sign Up for Notifications When Program Opens At least 30% of the program's funds will be allocated to minority-, veteran-, and women-owned businesses. Historically these kinds of businesses have faced difficulty obtaining financing.Update on Cases Per Capita by Zip CodeThe Virginia Public Access Project is now posting zip-code-level per-capita Covid case counts on their website. You can view the map on their Covid-19 dedicated page. Covid-19 Data on VPAPTesting in Prince William County Two COVID-19 drive-thru testing sites are opening May 15, 2020, in the Walmart parking lot located at: 17041 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Dumfries, VA 22026 8386 Sudley Rd., Manassas, VA 20109 The sites are supported by Walmart, eTrueNorth, state and local officials to test anyone who meets Centers for Disease Control (CDC), state and local guidelines on who should be tested, including first responders, health care providers, and others with symptoms of COVID-19, and those in high-risk groups without symptoms. Those interested must visit www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com to see if eligible for testing and to make an appointment. Learn More About Getting Tested for COVID-19 at the Locations Above Additional Testing Locations *UPDATE TUESDAY, 5/12/20 3:00 P.M.* Update on Re-opening in Northern VirginiaGovernor Ralph Northam today issued Executive Order Sixty-Two, allowing specific localities in Northern Virginia to delay entering Phase One of the “Forward Virginia” plan to ease restrictions on certain business operations that were put in place in response to the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19.Governor Northam has said that Virginia as a whole may enter Phase One on Friday, May 15, as outlined in Executive Order Sixty-One, based on achieving certain health metrics. Executive Order Sixty-Two allows the Northern Virginia localities to delay implementation of Phase One until midnight on Thursday, May 28, to allow those localities more time to meet the health metrics.In conjunction with this executive order, Governor Northam and State Health Commissioner M. Norman Oliver, MD, MA also issued Order of Public Health Emergency Number Four.Governor Northam had directed those jurisdictions to formally request approval to remain in Phase Zero. Officials in Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William; the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, and Manassas Park; and the towns of Dumfries, Herndon, and Vienna (Northern Virginia Region) requested to remain in Phase Zero. The city of Manassas and the town of Leesburg are included in the delayed implementation as well.Data show that Northern Virginia is substantially higher than the rest of the Commonwealth in percentage of positive tests for COVID-19, for example. The Northern Virginia Region has about a 25 percent positivity rate, while the rest of the Commonwealth is closer to 10 percent. Further, in the last 24 hours, the Northern Virginia Region reported over 700 cases, while the rest of the Commonwealth reported approximately 270. On any given day, 70 percent of the Commonwealth’s positive cases are attributable to the Northern Virginia Region.Full Text of Executive Order 62 and Public Health Emergency 4 *UPDATE MONDAY, 5/11/20 6:00 P.M.* This is an update from our regular conference call with the Governor's staff,. Phase I Reopening Discussion - Starting hopefully Friday depending on how data comes in this week Non-essential retail - Currently has a 10-person limit. Starting Friday we will move to up to 50% capcacity Restaurants can move to outdoor seating Limited outdoor fitness is allowed Personal care studios - can reopen with appointment only service with face coverings required Campgrounds can open for short-term stays State Parks can open for overnights The Governor has issued this 22-page FAQ for Phase I FAQ for Phase I Reopening Testing Update We're trying to make clear on people know when to come forward Working on information to help clinicians understand how to get tests Virginia has contracted with outside labs to ensure that we can process tests We are sending health kits to all of the free clinics in the state The Administration thinks we're at 10,000 tests per day, but the lab delays make it look a little lower VDH Office now has a unit to provide point prevalent testing at congregrate care facilities School Reopening The Governor has assembled a group of people to give recommendations Unemployment 60,000 new unemployment applications 625,000 total If someone feels unsafe in call back do they have to go back - The U.S. DOL has issued guidance that if you are called back and don't go back, you lose benefitsVirginia has hired 25 new adjudicators and is working on revising guidelines to provide more flexbility for paying benefits in these situations *UPDATE MONDAY, 5/11/20 1:00 P.M.* Job Postings for Contact TracersPlease see below for the contact tracer jobs that the Commonwealth is currently hiring:Contact Tracers: https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/187236 & https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Virginia-Department-of-Health/jobsRegional Contact Tracer Supervisors: https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/187235 & https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Virginia-Department-of-Health/jobsRegional Testing Supervisor: https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/187232 & https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Virginia-Department-of-Health/jobsCase Investigator: https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/187231 & https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Virginia-Department-of-Health/jobsData Manager: https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/187234 & https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Virginia-Department-of-Health/jobsData Analytics Coordinator: https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/187233 & https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Virginia-Department-of-Health/jobsPhase 1 Business GuidelinesOn Friday, Governor Northam rolled out an overview of guidelines applicable to businesses when Virginia enters Phase 1 of the Virginia Forward Blueprint. You can find detailed guidance for businesses here. Guidance for Businesses Review Full Text of E.O. 61 *UPDATE SATURDAY, 5/9/20 3:30 P.M.* Update on Re-OpeningGovernor Northam issued Executive Order 61 which includes detailed guidance on Phase 1 regulations for individuals, businesses, and places of worship. Review Full Text of E.O. 61 *UPDATE FRIDAY, 5/8/20 3:00 P.M.* Support for Chronic Disease PatientsThe coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is especially stressful for people with chronic diseases. The Global Healthy Living Foundation (GHLF) has developed a FREE program for patients and their families to access updated information, community support, and other resources tailored specifically to your health and safety. Join the millions of people who are #HighRiskCovid19 by signing up for the latest information about the virus that is a special threat to you -- delivered straight to your inbox.Sign up for Support Update on Phase One of Reopening The governor announced more details regarding the proposed reopening to begin May 15. Counties in Northern Virginia may choose to delay these measures depending on local case levels. *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 5/6/20 12:00 P.M.* Pandemic EBT BenefitsThe Virginia Department of Social Services announced federal approval for Virginia to provide Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) benefits to families of school-age children who no longer have access to free or reduced-price school meals due to public school closures. Eligible Virginia households include students who receive free or reduced-price school meals, as well as students enrolled in schools that provide free meals to all students through the Community Eligibility Provision. Families are not required to be current SNAP participants or complete an application to qualify for P-EBT assistance.Apply for benefits here Donating Plasma Sentara Healthcare has joined the FDA-approved COVID-19 plasma donation program as a potential treatment for COVID-19. If you have recovered from COVID-19, you may be able to help patients currently fighting the disease by donating your plasma. Your plasma is now known as convalescent plasma.Sentara has partnered with the American Red Cross to help those interested in donating plasma. If interested, you must register as a donor through the American Red Cross website.Sign up to Donate Plasma *UPDATE MONDAY, 5/4/20 6:00 P.M.* Governor's Phased Reopening Plan At 2 pm, the Governor announced we're extending the Executive Order restricting non-essential businesses based on public health data We're looking for downward trends still - we're moving in the right directions but not there yet We are encouraging people to continue staying at home especially if they have respiratory symptoms We're continuing the 10-person gathering limitations We're recommending face coverings in public The guidelines we've worked on with public health and business task force is 2 sets of guidelines - will be released in next few days 1 applicable to all businesses Three things - physical distancing (6 feet), sanitation methods using in buildings on high contact services (e.g. door handles, cleaning hands ever two hours, separate break areas, severing shifts, self monitoring temperature) Specific guidance for specific businesses - restaurants, breweries, beverage services, fitness centers, exercise facilities, personal care, entertainment/public amusement, campgrounds Phase II will happen after a continued downward trend absent evidence of a rebound Phase II easing business restrictions recommended face covering, physical distancing Gatherings of 50 people or less Vulnerable people staying at home Phase III Vulnerable populations take precautions Heightened cleaning Continued face coverings Full guidance document will be public in the next day or two Testing Status We're trying to expand testing rapidly We were able to start doing testing to high risk individuals quickly It's being run through the Health Department and just signed a contract last week In the private sector (clinicians offices), a test is different components We first need a patient. We need to change message from isolate to come forward if you're symptomatic. We'll be reaching out to providers in the next week to spread information. Necessary PPE A testing site - we're now up to 156 sites. Our website will give you sites by zip code. https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus/covid-19-testing/covid-19-testing-sites/ We will have an app soon where people can enter symptoms and use a CDC algorithm to determine what steps you should take. App will also follow up if you choose and send you reminders. PPE Update FEMA is providing a 2 week supply to Virginia's 284 nursing homes shortly Masks, gloves and gowns We have 4.6 million masks, 700 surgical masks, 700 face shields arriving later this week Virginia has put out a PPE guide for suppliers to provide information to Virginia Virginia just put three PPE decontamination units in place that can decontaminate 800,000 units per day at full capacity We will have one in Blacksburg, one in Hampton Roads and one in Richmond There is one in the District of Columbia that NOVA facilities can access Unemployment/Workforce Update 72,400 Virginians file for unemployment last week - 565,989 so far Virginia had the 10th lowest rate in the USA We were one of the first 10 states to have an online system up to process unemployment to 1099 workers/1099 workers Since we launched that system 4/19/20, we've had 65,000 qualified (about 10% don't qualify) Checks will be issued tomorrow Back pay will come later For constituents without technology skills We have a third party call center coming on board and another one coming We have a 3,000 call limit on our call centers - many have been running at capacity We are working on reopening VEC Offices Long Term Care Facilities We have a long term care taskforce that's been meeting several weeks We've been getting questions about point prevalence testing We are increasing our community capacity, but VDH has increased it's point prevalence project where all residents/staff are tested at the same time and same day to determine presence at that time VDH has created a team to coordinate with the National Guard to reach as many as they can (nursing homes, killed nursing, corrections, local jails, homeless shelters, and assisted living facilities) Up to this point, our program has been by request through local health departments, we are expanding it to where we're going to be proactively reaching out based on epidemiological risk Nursing home alerting families when someone tests positive or publicizing names with ongoing outbreak CMS (federal govt) was getting ready to publish new rules regarding notification for families New rule has been published effective 5/1 They must now reporte weekly only - suspected/confirmed COVID among residents/staff, total deaths, PPE and hand hygene supplies, ventilator supplies, residents beds, census, access to COVID testing and staffing CMS will publicly post this information CMS says it's their intent that the first weekly report will be submitted 5/8 LTC facilities must also inform residents and families of suspected cases among residents by 5 pm the next calendar day when they have single confirmed infection case or 3 or more with new onset of respiratory systems within 72 hours of each other Updates cannot include PII and mitigation actions and whether they will alter activities or access to facilities Facilities are not expected to make individual phone calls, but can make electronic notifications *UPDATE MONDAY, 5/4/20 10:30 A.M.* Update on TestingVirginia now has increased our testing capacity. The Commonwealth is issuing more broad-based guidance to providers to test more of their patients, in accordance with our increasing capacity to test. To learn more about testing, ask your provider and click below. Where Do I Get Tested For COVID-19 VDH infographics *UPDATE THURSDAY, 4/30/20 10:30 A.M.* Update on Student Loan ReliefGovernor Ralph Northam today announced that Virginia has secured relief options for more than 200,000 Virginians with privately held student loans. The payment relief is the result of a new initiative by Virginia and several other states to work with the major private student loan servicers to expand on protections for federal student loan borrowers through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.The federal CARES Act provided much-needed relief for students with federal loans, including the suspension of monthly payments, interest, and involuntary collection activity until September 30, 2020. However, millions of student loan borrowers with loans made by private lenders and federal loans not owned by the U.S. Government were left out. Under this initiative, Virginians with commercially-owned Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) loans, Perkins loans, or privately held student loans who are struggling to make their payments due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic will be eligible for expanded relief. Borrowers in need of assistance must immediately contact their student loan servicer to identify the options that are appropriate to their circumstances. Relief options include: Providing a minimum of 90 days of forbearance Waiving late payment fees Ensuring that no borrower is subject to negative credit reporting Ceasing debt collection lawsuits for 90 days Working with borrower to enroll them in other borrower assistance programs, such as income-based repayment These options will provide short-term relief for borrowers with significant changes in their income, which is advisable over the option of non-payment which can lead to default. Borrowers should note that these solutions will impact the terms and conditions of the loans. Before exercising these options, carefully consider the impact of the interest that accrues during the 90-day forbearance and how it will extend the repayment schedule for the loans.For additional information about relief options for federal loan borrowers, visit schev.edu/studentloan.Request Assistance from The Student Loan Advocate *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 4/29/20 10:30 A.M.* Update from Fairfax County Parks AuthorityThe Fairfax County Park Authority will reopen garden plots and some seasonal Farmers Markets with conditions that allow for compliance with the Governor’s orders on social distancing and safety guidelines. All garden plots will reopen on Wed., April 29. Gardeners will be notified of the opening and guidelines via email. Gardeners will be expected to comply with all COVID-19 health and social distancing requirements. The gradual re-opening of Farmers Markets will begin May 9, in a phased approach for the markets. Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne Shopping Center will open on Sat., May 9, from 8am-12pm. Burke Farmers Market will open on Sat., May 16, at Burke VRE Parking Lot from 8am-12pm Mount Vernon/McCutcheon Farmers Market will open on Wed., May 13, from 8am-12pm. More operational details such as pre-orders, limited contact sales and distribution, and other safety procedures will be announced later this week. Farmers market information can be found online below. All other park amenities currently closed (like visitors centers and restrooms) will remain closed. Details about Mt. Vernon Farmers Market *UPDATE MONDAY, 4/27/20 5:30 P.M.* We also had our regular elected officials update today at 5:00 p.m.565 New Cases, 13,000 cases so far, 10 new deaths for 458 total This was a 4.4% increase The rate of increase has been falling the last couple days We're watching that rate of change New cases has been down the last couple days We also look at healthcare utilization We have 389 in the ICU today The number of ventilators has been climbing and utilization is about 1/3rd of intubated patients are COVID suspect Ventilator use continues to call Testing continues to be very important in Virginia We've had a significant increase in testing We've also seen an uptick in testing because the provider community is getting better turnaround times We've had about a 40% increase in testing PPE Status We've evolved significantly and now found reliable suppliers The Governor has incorporated a PPE chart into his press conferences Majority of material we've procured has not arrived yet There is still more unmet needs around the Commonwealth We've shipped out PPE to 120 localities We are prioritizing long term care facilities and first responders FEMA has suggested that we recycle some of these masks and we've procured those to minimize need for PPE We're scheduled to receive 14,000 swabs from FEMA - we requested 100,000 Poultry Update We are getting more concerns about the numbers we are seeing on the Eastern Shore On the Eastern Shore we've seen an increase in numbers in Accomack County from people who work at two poultry facilities there We've been needed to coordinate with DE and MD because the Delmarva Peninsula industries are all very integrated We've jointly requested more support from the CDC for poultry industry and there is a CDC team arriving there Governor Northam laid out his Moving Forward Blueprint on Friday We're developing a phased approach We're not yet at Phase I We get there based on some metrics 14 days of declining numbers of cases 14 days of declining numbers of hospitalizations Additional metrics we are working toward are increased testing, access to PPE and increasing our public health workforce for contact tracing, etc. We're trying to provide clarity and consistency to the public, the establishments and the employees One will be broad guidance for all businesses The second set of guidance will be public spacing guidance for businesses as their expand operations in five areas Restaurant/beverage Brick and mortar Personal care Citizen exercise facilities Entertainment and Public Amusement Venues (theatres, concerts, bowling alleys) Administration is outreaching to dozens of groups of stakeholders Also conducting outreach thru the Governor's new Business Task Force Fairfax County is showing that Hispanics are being disproportionately impacted Releasing data by zip code could violate patient anonymity - I don't agree with is The health equity workgroup has asked for LatinX and African America media to run PSAs They are also launching a campaign There is also a disproportionate number of death in Richmond among Black residents *UPDATE MONDAY, 4/27/20 4:30 P.M.* Update on Transit FundingThe Commonwealth Transportation Board approved the allocation of nearly $100 million of the $456 million in federal public transportation funding apportioned to Virginia by the CARES Act. The stimulus funds will enable local governments, small urban, and rural transit agencies throughout the Commonwealth to offset the substantial revenue losses, as well as sustain essential mobility functions related to the prevention, preparation, and response to the COVID-19 pandemic.The Commonwealth of Virginia was apportioned $456 million as follows: $356.6 million distributed directly to urban public transit agencies. $47.2 million to the Commonwealth of Virginia for discretionary allocation to small urban transit agencies. $52.5 million to the Commonwealth of Virginia for discretionary allocation to rural transit agencies, the Virginia Breeze intercity bus service, and the Appalachian Development Public Transportation Program. The CTB amended DRPT’s FY 2020-2025 Six Year Improvement Program (SYIP) to reflect the nearly $100 million in discretionary funding as follows: 100% of small urban transit agency funding according to the existing formula utilized by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Small urban agencies can apply directly to the FTA for their share of funding (CARES Act Section 5307 Apportionment Split Letter). 50% of rural transit agency funding according to the FY2020 allocation formula for FTA rural operating funding. (CARES Act Section 5311 Initial Distribution) 15% of rural transit agency funding to the Virginia Breeze intercity bus program. 35% of remaining rural transit agency and Appalachian Development Public Transportation Program funding to be held in reserve to address critical transit agency needs and administrative support for management of the CARES Act program. The federal CARES Act funding does not require a state or local match, and is nearly three times the amount of federal transit funding appropriated to Virginia transit agencies in FY 2020. All operating and capital uses are eligible, retroactive to January 20, 2020, and include purchases of personal protective equipment (PPE), cleaning equipment, and payment of administrative leave for employees.More Detailed Information on Case CountsFairfax County released an updated tracker with more detailed information on cases in our region. This is a helpful step, and I continue to push for more granular data to be released. You can now see: Total Case Numbers, Deceased and Hospitalizations Cases by Locality. Includes the number of cases and rates per 100,000 residents for Fairfax County, and the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church. Case Rates by Combined Zip Code. To protect confidential health information, case rates are being presented in combined ZIP Codes grouped by the first three digits. Rates per 100,000 residents in a zip code to provide comparable information across zip codes. Cases only represent a place of residence and not where transmission may have occurred. This information should not be used to measure individual risk. Cases by Age Group. Rates are per 100,000 residents and indicate the age distribution of cases and deaths while taking into account the size differences of the age groups. Cases by Racial and Ethnic Groups. A side-by-side percent comparison of racial and ethnic group percentage among all Fairfax Health District residents and racial and ethnic group percentage only among Fairfax Health District residents that have been reported as being infected with COVID-19. Race and ethnicity data are not routinely reported by laboratories. This means that race and ethnicity data is missing and caution should be used when interpreting these results. Trajectory of Cases. This graph helps visualize if the number of cases are growing or slowing. Epidemic Curve. This curve shows the number of new cases that occur by week of onset. Information from the past 3 weeks may be incomplete due to the time between exposure and laboratory results. New Covid-19 Case Dashboard from Fairfax County Local May ElectionsGovernor Northam announced that he is using his executive authority to delay the May 5 local elections by 14 days to May 19. Given health concerns, the Governor is strongly encouraging anyone who plans to vote in that election to vote absentee by mail. Apply to vote by mail online *UPDATE THURSDAY, 4/23/20 3:30 P.M.* Prescription Drug ReliefPfizer RxPathways connects eligible patients to a range of assistance programs that offer insurance support, co-pay help, and medicines for free or at a savings.One of these programs is the Pfizer Patient Assistance Program, which provides eligible patients with their Pfizer medicines for free. If you are interested in applying to the Pfizer Patient Assistance Program, please follow the prompts below to tell us a little bit more about yourself. You will then be able to start filling out a program application online.Sign up for Prescription Drug Relief Request for Telework for Federal Employees Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, and Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser have sent a letter urging the Trump administration to continue to keep telework policies in place for the federal workforce. More than one-fifth of the nation’s federal workforce lives in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Full Text of Letter List of providers offering mental health/substance use disorder treatment to Medicaid members and othersIn order to ensure Virginia’s most vulnerable populations are able to access the mental health and substance use disorder treatment they need, Virginia's Community-Based Providers have adapted under flexibilities authorized by DMAS to be able to deliver behavioral health services via telehealth and telephone, as clinically appropriate. While all providers provide Medicaid services, many also accept commercial insurance. As a resource to you as you become aware of Virginians in need of behavioral health treatment, we have created a comprehensive list of providers, locations, jurisdictions served, services provided, insurance accepted and contact information for referrals. This list is organized by health district.List of Mental Health Resources Supreme Court Extends Judicial Emergency Virginia’s ongoing judicial emergency status, which limits, modifies or postpones most in-person court hearings as a precaution against the COVID-19 pandemic, will continue at least through May 17. The state Supreme Court announced Wednesday it will extend the emergency — which was declared March 16 and later renewed through April 26 — for a third period of 21 days.Full Judicial Order Internet Access With the help of local officials, schools, and libraries across Virginia, the Commonwealth Connect team and Virginia Tech have developed an interactive map of free, publicly available wifi hotspots that Virginians can access from a vehicle. Virginia WiFi Hotspot MapWMATA update Making the most of historically low ridership and traffic-free highways, Metro today announced plans to combine the schedules of its two biggest capital priorities in Virginia: rebuilding platforms and connecting the Silver Line to Metro's existing network. Under the expanded plan, Metro will combine this summer's work demolishing and reconstructing platforms at four Orange Line stations with a separate project on the Silver Line to connect Metrorail to the new "phase II" stations, which are being constructed by the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA). The resulting summer shutdown will close a total of nine stations from Memorial Day weekend through the fall. Under the new plan: All stations west of Ballston on the Orange and Silver lines will be closed beginning Saturday, May 23: Orange Line: East Falls Church, West Falls Church, Dunn Loring, Vienna Silver Line: McLean, Tysons, Greensboro, Spring Hill, Wiehle-Reston East All trains will begin/end service at Ballston. Orange Line service will run from Ballston to New Carrollton. There will be no Silver Line service. Free express and local shuttle bus service will be available to provide alternative travel options for essential workers. As a result of the COVID-19 public health emergency, ridership at stations west of Ballston totals about 1,200 customers per weekday – less than 5% of normal ridership. Extended Closure at DMV Gov. Northam extended the closure of Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) public-facing offices by two weeks, until May 11. Virginia State Police are directed to continue suspending the enforcement of motor vehicle inspections and take several additional measures through July 31. Amendment to Executive Directive 7 Ban on Elective Surgeries Gov. Northam extended the current ban on elective surgeries by one week, until May 1. The ban on elective surgeries will continue while the Governor and State Health Commissioner M. Norman Oliver, MD, MA continue to evaluate, in conjunction with hospitals and other medical facilities, how to safely ease restrictions on non-essential medical procedures, and the availability of personal protective equipment. The public health emergency order does not apply to any procedure if the delay would cause harm to a patient. The order also does not apply to outpatient visits in hospital-based clinics, family planning services, or emergency needs. Amendment to Public Health Emergency Order 2 *UPDATE TUESDAY, 4/21/20 7:00 P.M.* Testing WorkgroupYesterday, Governor Northam announced the creation of a Testing Workgroup, to make sure all of Virginia’s public and private testing efforts are coordinated. Dr Karen Remley and Dr. Lillian Peake will head up the workgroup. Dr. Remley is the former Virginia Commissioner of Health, and Dr. Peake is our state epidemiologist.Dr. Oliver Clinicians LetterYesterday, Dr. Oliver sent a letter to clinicians, outlining expanded testing guidelines. It will encourage doctors to test all of their symptomatic patients. That letter is available below.Dr. Oliver's Letter to Providers Health Data reportingGovernor Northam announced during his press conference yesterday that VDH will expand the health data that is being reported. This will include cases, hospitalizations and fatalities by locality; as well as the number of cases, hospitalizations, and fatalities at the health district level with demographic information, such as age or race.Unemployment UpdateThe CARES Act includes a provision of temporary benefits for individuals who are not eligible for regular/traditional unemployment insurance. These individuals may include those who are self-employed, independent contractors, gig economy workers, clergy and those working for religious organizations as well as others who may not be covered by the regular/traditional UI program. The first step was to apply for unemployment insurance (UI) by visiting www.vec.virginia.gov or www.vawc.virginia.gov or by calling 866-832-2363 You received (or will receive) a Monetary Determination from the Virginia Employment Commission that indicates that you do not qualify for unemployment benefits (UI). Apply here *UPDATE MONDAY, 4/20/20 5:30 P.M.* Monday afternoon, we held our regular call with the Administration regarding the Commonwealth's response to the COVID crisis. 453 new cases, 5% increase 23 new deaths Sunday at 6% increase, Saturday 7%, Friday 8.7% Percentage is down, but absolute numbers are flat which we think is positive Medical resources are not overwhelmed Secretary Carey is cautiously optimistic Some health systems have 150 COVID patients, some have 3 The state is monitoring the protests planned for Wednesday FEMA has approved request for funding for hotel stays for first responders Non-congregated shelder for Fire, EMF, law enforcement, and certain health workers PPE - we have some deliveries coming in from Northfield (VA Company) We received 25,000 maskes 50,000 gowns 50,000 face shields The state is continuing to attempt to expand efforts We have a committed focus on testing The needs for swabs is apparently - we don't have enough We've made another request of FEMA - 200,000 swabs Detailed patients information/Data issues State Health Commissioners is required to preserve the anonymity of any patient examined Identity and disease date is confidential We cannot release facility level data because it would compromise anonymity of the individual 32.1-3 also means the facility is included if they make a disease report VDH is looking into developing some milestones or graphics that could show where we need to be to revisit business restrictions Data/Modeling Analysis The IHME Model Reset on Friday It didn't change much but showed that we are 5 days from peak UVA model is updated weekly - that will come out Thursday That data is more about what happens when we relax We don't expect to change much The Health Systems are using CHIMES data It still shows a May peak It's better at showing their burn rate of PPE CARES Act Update New law made 3 changes 26 weeks to 39 weeks Added $600 to weekly benefits up to 4 months Added gig workers/independent contractors/sole proprietors We just launched our new portal for this on Friday because we had to build a new portal Benefits are continuing to roll out Independent contractors are now being processed Inmate Status We have testing occurring in prisons and with staff Physical visitation is cancelled Video visitation is available to offenders Every DOC facility offers offsite visitation *UPDATE FRIDAY, 4/17/20 4:00 P.M.* Update on Incarcerated PopulationOn March 19, Governor Northam issued guidance to local criminal justice officials, calling for them to consider proactive measures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 while ensuring public safety. The Northam administration issued a joint statement with local public safety agencies, including the Virginia Sheriffs Association (VSA), the Virginia Association of Commonwealth’s Attorneys (VACA), the Virginia Indigent Defense Commission (IDC), and the Virginia Association of Regional Jails (VARJ).Governor Northam recommended the following: Allowing sentence modifications that can reduce populations within the jails, as outlined in § 19.2-303 of the Code of Virginia. Diverting offenders from being admitted into jails prior to trial, including the use of summonses by law enforcement in lieu of arrest pursuant to § 19.2-74 of the Code of Virginia, and use of local pretrial programs as available and with consideration to local capacity. Considering ways to decrease the number of low-risk offenders being held without bail in jails. Utilizing alternative solutions to incarceration such as home electronic monitoring, pursuant to § 53.1-131.2 of the Code of Virginia. Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran sent a letter to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia, Donald Lemons, on March 25 requesting his assistance in encouraging all magistrates and other judicial officers determining bail to consider the health and safety of those that appear before them and the residents and employees in local and regional jails.Since late February, the number of new commitments to local and regional jails has decreased from approximately 10,000 during a two-week period to just over 4,000. On April 7, the jail population in the Commonwealth was 24,000, which is a 17 percent decrease from March 1. Virginia has also seen a 67 percent decline in the number of new commitments for misdemeanors across the Commonwealth.Tips for safe grocery shoppingThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued the tips below to stay safe around your food. To help protect yourself, grocery store workers, and other shoppers, it is important to keep a few things in mind: Prepare a shopping list in advance. Buy just 1 to 2 weeks-worth of groceries at a time. Buying more than you need can create unnecessary demand and temporary shortages. Wear a face covering or mask while you are in the store. Some stores and localities may require it. Check your state, county or city guidelines for any other requirements. Carry your own wipes, or use one provided by the store to wipe down the handles of the shopping cart or basket. If you use reusable shopping bags, ensure they are cleaned or washed before each use. Practice social distancing while shopping – keeping at least 6 feet between you, other shoppers, and store employees. Keep your hands away from your face. Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds when you return home and again after you put away your groceries. Again, there is no evidence of food packaging being associated with the transmission of COVID-19. However, if you wish, you can wipe down product packaging and allow it to air dry, as an extra precaution. More Food Safety Tips From the FDA Healthcare Personnel The Governor announced Executive Order 57, which adds physician offices and other health care facilities to the section in Executive Order Fifty-Two allowing hospitals, nursing facilities, and dialysis facilities to have out-of-state licensees provide in-state care. It allows Virginia-licensed nurse practitioners with two or more years of clinical experience to practice without a collaborative agreement. It provides additional flexibility to hospitals in the supervision of interns, residents, and fellows, and allows hospitals to use fourth year medical students in the provision of care. Executive Order Fifty-Seven also allows for expanded use of telehealth. Physicians with licenses from another state who have current Virginia patients may continue to treat their patients via telehealth, which will help ensure Virginians who live in border communities do not have to travel out-of-state for care. The order is in effect through June 10, 2020, unless amended or rescinded by a further executive order. Full Text of EO-57 Tuition-free college-level classes for High School Students Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) is using institutional dollars from the Federal stimulus to launch a new summer schedule of tuition-free online classes for approximately 70,000 qualified Northern Virginia high school students. This is an opportunity for rising seniors through graduating seniors to JumpStart their summers and earn college credit by attending up to two online courses that will run from June 1 to July 15. The online courses have been selected because they fulfill not only NOVA degree requirements but also transfer to most colleges and universities. Also, in partnership with Amazon Web Services, the JumpStart offerings will include an online course in Cloud Computing, providing students with their first step onto an in-demand local tech pathway. Sign up to start taking classes Updates on business closures The Governor extended Executive Order 53 until May 8 which defined closures for essential and non-essential businesses. The stay-at-home order is still in effect until June 10. Northam also promised that he is working with Maryland, DC, and North Carolina to coordinate the appropriate time for any future re-openings. FAQ on Business Closure and Stay-At-Home Order Update from the Fairfax Office to Prevent and End Homelessness Contracts will be signed shortly to secure three hotels with a total of 223 rooms to serve people experiencing homelessness who either: Tested positive for COVID-19 Are symptomatic and pursuing testing or are awaiting testing for COVID-19 Have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 Are at high risk of serious illness Additional services are being procured this week for transportation, meal delivery, cleaning services, security, and more. People at the highest risk have begun transitioning. Update from Prince William County Human Services The Human Services Alliance of Greater Prince William partnered with Prince William County Government and the cities of Manassas, and Manassas Park to collect donations for the Prince William Area Disaster Fund. This is a combined disaster relief and recovery fund to respond to the effects of COVID-19 on the community. The fund is supported mostly by donations from private citizens, businesses, faith-based organizations, and other community groups. People who would like to donate can text the word “IMPACT” to 36413, send a check, or give online. Funding priorities include food security, housing, human services, employment assistance and other critical assistance. Through monies donated, The Alliance will provide funding to emergency networks, community groups, and agencies that are working to meet critical unmet needs. Funding priorities include food security, housing, and human services, employment assistance and other critical needs. The Alliance will administer funds to community groups that can show collaboration, efficiency in their plans to serve Prince William Area residents in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis. Five percent of the funds raised will go toward administrative costs associated with managing the initiative. Learn more about the fund *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 4/15/20 5:30 P.M.* Today, we have our regular COVID update with legislators. We are now over 6,000 confirmed cases The increase of 329 over the previous day's amount has slowed our curve We also look at hospitalizations This morning there were 1298 confirmed/suspected COVID cases 802 with positive test and 492 with pending test That ratio used to be higher (2:1) and that has reversed with increased testing capacity 234 COVID suspects are on ventilators - that's been relatively stable NYS has offered us ventilators because our request from the national stockpile got diverted to NY Use of ventilators has been steadily falling PPE Update Governor announced a big $27M order placed last week First shipment has arrived and is at the VDEM warehouse The are prioritizing hot spots Governor extended the order for non-essential businesses by 2 weeks to 5/8/20 Workforce Update In the first three weeks there were over 300,000 claims That's more than the last 3 years combined Last year we issued 191,000 benefit checks Last Friday, anyone who qualified for unemployment benefits would get an extra $600 for four months per USDOL guidance It's also retroactive and we will pay it back depending on application Retroactive will come next Tuesday We are processing anyone who did not qualify for unemployment because they were 1099/gig workers/sole proprietors This is new Had to create a whole new system We will request further information because we don't have payroll data on them Congress made the paperwork requirements tricky and it requires verification which will slow benefits down If someone is partially unemployed and make more than $428/week on partial unemployment then you don't qualify for any unemployment Some people are calling unhappy that if they made $420/wk v. $428/wk, they get an extra $600 - they're saying then I'll just full unemployed and get the full $600 - our hands are tied by federal law UVA Modeling Data The UVA Model says there's an initial phase where we peak now 4/23 It also shows the dramatic impact of the social impacting implementation What's important from the UVA model is that the vast majority of Virginians have not been infected, if we simply release the social distancing intervention and don't have some baseline of masks, avoiding masks gatherings, etc., then we would have a secondary peak in August, 2020 We need to have triggers in place in terms of going forwards/backwards with implementation National Guard Being used in MD, but in VA they are part of the consultation/support team but not part of the medical intervention in Virginia We're using them when we have outbreaks and other immediate response measures for certain non-medical measures Paycheck Protection Program Our initial numbers are that VA is slightly outpacing states of our size We've had 27,000 Virginia businesses approved for $6.5 billion in loans The Federal Reserve is issuing guidance for their program for companies over 500 employees *UPDATE MONDAY, 4/13/20 5:30 P.M.* Today, we have our regular COVID update with legislators. They have received 419 Vendor leads and have completed 219 reviews They have received lots of donations also PPE Status continues to be an urgent issue Department of Corrections DoC is isolating COVID positive inmates We are still trying to come up with a robust testing process in the Commonwealth Wearing of facemasks in public The Governor has endorsed everyone wearing a cloth facial covering but he has not mandated it and does not have plans at the present time to make that an executive order VDH and VHHA website has new data transparency in the last 24 hours They are working on additional measures so that it might be possible to break down data by localit *UPDATE MONDAY, 4/13/20 4:30 P.M.* COVID-19 MythsAs many communities struggle with the Coronavirus, several myths are starting to circulate. The World Health Organization compiled a list of these common myths and and reputable research to bust them. These are published at the link below.WHO Coronavirus Mythbusters Updates on Modeling and the Virginia PeakResearchers from the University of Virginia presented research today. The main takeaways from that briefing are as follows:1. Social distancing is working. Keep adhering to the Executive Orders and associated guidance.2. Virginia is collaborating with some of the best minds in the nation to understand and apply science and data for sound policy.3. Models are developing as the data grows. There is not one definitive model. Virginia will continue to base our decisions on the best available science and data.More information is available below.Information about UVA Modeling Federal Resources Congressman Don Beyer released summaries of federal resources available to provide housing, food, and financial relief for Virginians. Financial Assistance Housing Assistance Food Assistance *UPDATE FRIDAY, 4/10/20 5:30 P.M.* Update on Incarcerated IndividualsThe Governor asked the General Assembly to pass emergency legislation at our April 22 meeting to allow the Dept. of Public Safety to release individuals at their discretion if the individual has less than one year remaining on their sentence. We will consider this as an amendment to the budget bill.The state does not have jurisdiction over Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities in the Commonwealth.The juvenile justice facility at Bon Air has several confirmed cases. The facility was built for 500+ offenders but only houses 205 currently so they are able to space them out to a greater extent than other prisons.Update on Unemployment InsuranceBeginning next week, individuals who were self-employed will be able to claim benefits. People who were rejected before the change to federal law will be reached back out to so they can now claim their benefits. The additional $600 under the CARES act will also be added in to the weekly benefit amount. More information from the Virginia Employment Commission is below:Information from Virginia Employment Commission Virginia Medical Reserve Corps The Governor stressed the continued need for medical volunteers. If you are able to volunteer, please do so at the link below. The Virginia Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a force of dedicated volunteers who stand ready to support the community in the event of a public health emergency. Each of the 22 local MRC units is comprised of teams medical and public health professionals who, along with interested community members, volunteer their skills, expertise and time to support ongoing public health initiatives and assist during emergencies throughout Virginia. Volunteer for the Virginia Medical Reserve Corps Long-Term Care Facilities Today, Governor Northam announced that Dr. Laurie Forlano, Deputy Commissioner at the VA Dept of Health, will head up a task force to oversee the Commonwealth's COVID mitigation efforts in long-term care facilities. This task force will ensure that nursing homes and long-term care facilities have the necessary financial resources, strengthen their staffing and infection control measures, and ensure access to information on where the virus is appearing. VDEM Information Portal The Virginia Department of Emergency Management has established a portal through which you can find a wide variety of COVID-related material. It encompasses waivers, memoranda and guidance; available disaster grants and loan programs; and instructions for private sector partners who seek to aid the Commonwealth in our COVID response. Those resources can all be found here. Emergency Management Resources VDH Frequently Asked Questions The Virginia Dept of Health website has published a comprehensive page of health-related FAQs. Please distribute this link to any constituents with relevant questions. Health FAQs *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 4/8/20 5:30 P.M.* Infection Update 3645 positive cases in VA 312 or 9% increase We can't do point-of-care testing at doctor's offices yet because we don't have access to such testing in the USA yet There are some tests that haven't been validated by the FDA because they aren't sensitive enough and are giving false negatives which can cause more disease spread So far FEMA has only distributed 50,000 tests from Abbott Labs although the goal is to manufacture 40,000 per day They are having the same experience in other states There is a national set of eyes on these issues We're working with other some contractors on best practices from other areas as to how to do better Modeling There are a number of models Secretary Carey recommends the Institute for Healthcare That moved one month over the weekend - said Late May, not April 20 (2 weeks away) And a relatively low spike That is not the only model The CHIMES U of Pa model based on health systems and PPE burn rate says a peak in May or as late as June There is the UVA Model - they updated yesterday and we'll have a report tomorrow We've got the RAND corporation trying to integrate all of them to give us better information We have models, but they are all over the place HHR Update Delays in testing results are attributable to the commercial labs Quest has a system in place to prioritize hospitalized patients Labcorps is doing the same. Some members have requested more robust data Some weekly data is available on the VDH website That has more information than the general dashboard updated daily There is some demographic data by health region There is data by ER visits and other treatment sites like nursing homes We've contracted with RAND corporation to try to make visualizations of data more available Ventilator status We're gathering from health systems 2,400 we have 665 in use on Friday 73% available We've requsted 300 from the National Stockpile and FEMA says we will receive 7 days prior to estimated date needed Face masks Governor has endorsed cloth based covering in places where social distancing is difficult to avoid like grocery stores in areas with significant COVID spread Can be purchased or made at home We should not use N95 masks Hydrocholoriquine The state is not stockpiling There is no national recommendation on this The state has recommended against hoarding Teletherapy Many insurers are offering telemedicine without cost sharing The VA Assoc of Health Plans has info on their website about how insurers have expanded coverage - Google VA Healthcare teleprovisions Scope of Practice Nurse Practitioners are requesting full practice authority Some requirements are in Code and can't be waived, but we are in discussions Elections Update The Governor is going to recommend Emergency legislation to move the May, 2020 local elections to November The Governor is concerned about the health and safety of workers and voters Novembers qualified in November can vote in those elections - not just voters qualified in May If passed, votes already submitted for the May election will be discarded The Governor is also going to move the primary date to June 23, 2020 These are difficult choices but the best option to protect the health of Virginians and the integrity of the elections Anyone's whose term expires will be extended ABC Update ABC Board has approved temporary regulations allowing take out mixed drink orders More info Here: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/all-releases/2020/april/headline-856007-en.html Unemployment All unemployment applications really need to go through the state website We are trying to upgrade a system that takes 1900 claims per week to 10,000 claims per day We are also getting guidance from the U.S. Department of Labor to determine how to process this information *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 4/8/20 3:00 P.M.* Update on PPEThe Commonwealth has distributed over a million gloves and several hundred thousand masks. There is still a huge gap in federal leadership. No hospital is out of PPE but many are concerned. The hospitals put up data here:Data From Virginia Hospitals Update on Elections The Governor proposed moving the May election general elections to the fall. The General Assembly will have to act on this proposal when we meet later this month. The Governor also used his statutory authority to postpone congressional primaries from June 9 to June 23. Update on Bills Before The Governor The budget will be heavily amended. The Governor is committed to meeting his deadline to act on all bills by Saturday. Cocktails to-go Virginia ABC will begin licencing restaurants on Thursday to serve cocktails to-go.Monetary Policy Update From Fed of RichmondTom Barkin, President & CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, explained what the Fed has done to address this crisis and how he sees that dovetailing with other government intervention.Summary and Video of Remarks *UPDATE TUESDAY, 4/7/20 4:30 P.M.* Update regarding waste collectionBeginning last week, the Solid Waste Management Program in Fairfax County changed collection requirements for trash and recycling haulers and changing service levels at the county’s two disposal sites. These changes will remain in effect until the public health emergency passes. Additional changes may be announced if the situation worsens in our area.“These were tough decisions, but the health and safety of our hardworking men and women is paramount. We know some of these changes will be inconvenient for residents. We ask for patience and understanding as we do our part to protect our people. Everyone is making sacrifices to get through this extraordinary public health crisis. Our staff is looking forward to returning to normal as soon as possible,” said John Kellas, Solid Waste Management Program director.Details Regarding Waste Collection Changes Genetic Technology to Combat COVID-19Governor Northam announced yesterday that the Department of General Services’ (DGS) Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS) is one of the first public health labs in the nation to use genetic technology to help public health officials better understand and track the scope of the COVID-19 pandemic to strengthen prevention and response efforts.DCLS is using next-generation sequencing to genetically decode some Virginia samples that contain the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19. Looking at this genetic fingerprint can help public health officials track how the virus is changing and provide insights into how it is being transmitted. A full press release on this announcement can be found here.Information About Genetic Testing Virginia Dept of EducationThe Virginia Department of Education (DOE) has published an in-depth FAQ page regarding special education and student services. That FAQ page can be found here.Student Services FAQ Small Business Administration LoansThe SBA continues to put out information on their Coronavirus Relief Options for small businesses. Small Business Federal Relief Portal Employee Retention Tax CreditThe IRS has published an informational page on the Employee Retention Tax Credit. This program is a component of the CARES Act, and more information on it can be found here.IRS Small Business Relief *UPDATE MONDAY, 4/6/20 6:00 P.M.* At 5:00 p.m. today, we had our regular conference call with the Governor's staff. 1.3 million confirmed cases worldwide 357,000 in the USA NY has 131,000 cases Hubei has 68,000 NJ 41,000 MI 13,000 NYC 72,000 confirmed cases Virginia 241 new cases 2878 Virginians tested positive - 9% increase Represented a decrease in slope, but we don't know if that's a trend yet 24,500 Virginians have been tested We have 497 hospitalizations 538 confirmed positive hospitalized patients right now with 1,100 total with those in and those pending results due to lack of rapid turnaround in testing nationwide 2560 ventilators, 600 higher than reported 2 weeks ago 666 people on them 26% of ventilators is being used right now - same as last week, but supply has gone up 5,500 beds are available The biggest issue remains testing capacity which is increasing Many hospitals now have in hospital labs Point of care testing is helpful Abbott is shipping 40,000 per day but few was coming to the US Governor has raised it on his conference call with the President PPE We've been in a mad scramble We did secure a $27M purchase from a Norfolk company First shipment will come soon That's just the beginning and we're still locating and finding other members They appreciate the leads we've provided Notarizations Issues They've been getting a lot of calls about remote online notarizations Other states have put out emergency orders allowing traditional notaries to provide online notaries We've put together a guidance document Traditional notaries can apply to be an electronic notary We have prioritized those applications Questions/concerns contact the Secretary of the Commonwealth Chief Workforce Adviser USDOL is providing continued guidance on (1) 1099's applying for unemployment, (2) the additional $600/week of the original amount (is also retroactive) and (3) expanding to 39 weeks of benefits The hardest part is the gig contractor rule because we can't do a payroll match like we can on existing employees If you work in DC - you need to apply in DC Our unemployment system is regulated by the Federal Government and we can only give insurance to workers who live in VA We actually pay unemployment today to about 2,000 people who do not live in VA because of the same rule They are also coordinating with OSHA on safe work environments for people continuing to work We are trying to push complaints to OSHA - we've received 1,000's of complaints and OSHA is following through with calls to employers Healthcare workforce Working with hospitals regarding levels of need and staffing patterns We are also working with our Medical Reserve Corps - we're going to need 30,000 volunteers Some have suggested home healthcare workers could help They're trying to figure out the best way to bring people in We've also lost a lot of workers to NYC because they paid high bonuses and there's some concern people might not come back The state is also working to have measures in place in case we need to utilize these alternative treatment locations - convention centers, etc. Public Safety Questions Gun stores are not essential, but are allowed to be open provided they can honor social distancing DJJ has one positive test - resident is asymptomatic and doing well Inmates have been provide masks Security staff has gloves Law enforcement has been advised not to enforce the Commonwealth's mask statute ABC continues to be a topic of discussion Beer and wine off premises has been authorized Cocktails is more complicated because it's prohibited by statute and not regulation Virginia distilleries have now been authorized to make home deliveries The Parole Board is working overtime They release 95 people last month which is a big increase There are 2,500 people eligible for geriatric or pre-1995 release, but the problem is that most are violent offenders Most non-violent offenders don't fit into any statutory box where we can release them The Governor's only authority is clemency, but Governor has to review each case individually The Sheriff's have reduced their populations and have stopped booking as many people via arrests Of the campgrounds - the Gov's order is specific All overnight stays less than 14 stays need to stop We did close State Parks to overnight Some people were trying to come down here to camp out and get out of NY Farmer's Markets VDAC issued guidelines for Farmer's Markets to work consistent with restaurants We have about 287 registered Farmer's Markets Some have as many as 40-50 vendors, some are 4-5, some are in food deserts We did not recommend that they close, but that they convert to take out or delivery and establish a system of ordering ahead if possible LuLu's Local, MarketMaker platforms are available We've given guidance for social distancing guidelines, no touch/low touch opportunities, others are doing pre-boxing We wanted to make sure there were mobile markets allowed There was some initial confusion - we never asked anyone to close *UPDATE MONDAY, 4/6/20 3:00 P.M.* Update on Hospital ResourcesThe Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association (VHHA) has launched a new online data dashboard to provide up-to-date statistics on the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations across the Commonwealth, ventilator usage, current hospital bed availability, and metrics on the number of hospitals experiencing challenges obtaining or replenishing critical inventories of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other needed medical supplies.The publication of this dashboard, which is updated daily, provides a resource to the public, state and federal partners, and the media to share valuable, accurate data that offers insight into the work being done by Virginia hospitals and health systems, and the thousands of dedicated health care professionals they employ, who are combatting COVID-19.In addition to the new data dashboard, VHHA also maintains a COVID-19 webpage with resources, documents, video content, and more. That page is also a portal through which people with supplies to donate can find information on hospitals seeking supply donations.Data From Virginia Hospitals More Resources From Virginia Hospitals Update from Fairfax County Public Schools Any FCPS parent may schedule a 30-minute phone consultation with a school psychologist or school social worker, for either themselves or their middle or high school student. This consultation provides an opportunity for parents to receive guidance on how to support their child’s emotional well-being during their time away from school. Student consultations will provide support and strategies to students who may be experiencing difficulties with anxiety, mood, behavior, or peer or family interactions during this unprecedented and challenging time. Information about community resources will also be made available. Parents can schedule a phone consultation online. This service is not intended for mental health emergencies. If an emergency is suspected or indicated, please call 911. Additionally, students and families can access mental health support online if there is a crisis of emergency during the time of the closure.Schedule a Phone Consultation Update on Face Covering The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. Governor Northam echoed that recommendation today in his press conference.CDC also advises the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Cloth face coverings fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials at low cost can be used as an additional, voluntary public health measure.Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance. CDC Guidance on Face CoveringHousing Relief Links from Virginia Poverty Law Center · Eviction Legal Helpline: 833-NoEvict · FAQs About Evictions During the COVID-19 Crisis · Your Rights as a Tenant During COVID-19 Outbreak · Unlawful Eviction Toolkit: What to Do if Your Landlord Evicts You Without a Court Order · Information on Evictions from Hotels, Motels, Boarding Houses, etc. · Your Rights as a Mortgage Borrower During the COVID-19 Emergency · Federal Eviction Moratorium Fact Sheet · Flow Chart: Can I Be Evicted During the COVID-19 Crisis? · CARES Act Fact Sheet · Asking Your Landlord for Rent Payment Plans All of these can be found on our website here as well as on valegalaid.org. We will also have these available in Spanish soon. While we hope these will prove useful for you, we want to stress that these resources provide general legal information, not legal advice about a specific case. If you are dealing with a specific issue related to housing or any other civil legal issue, please call 866-LEGLAID to be connected to your local legal aid office. You can also call any of our free helplines: · ENROLL Virginia! Helpline: (888) 392-5132 · Eviction Helpline: 833-NOEVICT (833-663-8428) · Predatory Loan Helpline: (866) 830-4501 · Senior Legal Helpline: (844) 802-5910 *UPDATE SATURDAY, 4/4/20 12:00 P.M.* Update from MetroMetrorailMon-Fri 5 a.m. – 9 p.m. Trains every 20 min/line (15 min on Red Line)Sat-Sun 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. Trains every 30 min/line (20 min on Red Line)• 19 rail stations are closed (no alternate transportation provided)• Each train’s first and last cars are out of service to protect train operatorsMetrobusMon-Fri Buses operate using a Modified Sunday Schedule. Please consult wmata.com to check weekday bus routes to make sure your bus is running. Buses will run at Sunday service levels. No service after 11 p.m.Sat-Sun Buses service on 27 routes only. Check weekend bus routes before traveling. No service on other routes. Buses will run every 30 minutes. No service after 11 p.m.MetroAccess: All subscription trips remain canceled. Please limit travel to only the most essential trips. *UPDATE FRIDAY, 4/3/20 4:00 P.M.Emergency Shelter for the Homeless Governor Northam today announced an initial $2.5 million in emergency funding to shelter Virginia’s statewide homeless population during the COVID-19 pandemic. This emergency support will provide temporary housing for the approximately 1,500 Virginians who are currently unsheltered or rely on shelters that require them to leave every day. The funding will also provide housing for individuals in shelters that may need to be quarantined, or where social distancing is not feasible.Press Release About Emergency Shelter Emergency Care SitesIn Northern Virginia, the Dulles Expo Center will be the site for an alternative care facility. This center can accommodate 315 acute, or 510 non-acute beds. The Hampton Roads Convention Center will serve the Hampton Roads region, with an increased capacity of 360 acute, or 580 non-acute beds. The Richmond Convention Center will serve the greater Richmond area, with an increased capacity of 432 acute or 758 non-acute beds. The Northam Administration is working closely with the Army Corps of Engineers to complete contracts, approve designs, and move towards construction. The goal is for the alternative care facilities to be ready in 6 weeks, to correspond with the projected peak of the virus in mid-May.Unemployment BenefitsIn the previous week, over 114,000 individuals have filed unemployment claims in Virginia. The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) is moving swiftly to expand its capacity to deal with the surge in claims. The VEC has upgraded its website, expanded server capacity, and will be increasing call center staffing by 20%.Frequently Asked Questions from WorkersGiven the substantial economic impact that COVID-19 has had on Virginia's workforce, the Northam Administration has released a comprehensive FAQ document to address questions that workers may have. FAQ For Workers Federal Major Disaster DesignationVirginia has received a Major Disaster Declaration to aid in the Commonwealth’s response to the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. Governor Northam requested this federal disaster assistance on Monday, March 30.A Major Disaster Declaration designation provides federal public assistance for all areas in the Commonwealth of Virginia affected by COVID-19 at a federal cost share of 75 percent. The full press release on the Major Disaster Designation can be found here. Virginia Declared Major Disaster Area Update from MetroJoin WMATA on Sunday, April 5 at 2 p.m. for our next Facebook Live Conversation regarding COVID-19 and Metro's response. During this live event, the questions employees submit will be addressed by the Pandemic Task Force, union leadership representing Local 922 and Local 2, and the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP).What: Facebook Live Conversation When: Sunday, April 5 at 2 p.m. Where: Metro Forward Facebook If you are using a mobile device, enter "Metro Forward" in the search bar on the Facebook homepage to view our profile. This event will continue to focus on addressing employee concerns about the ongoing, dynamic COVID-19 situation. Please email your questions to metroemployeenews@wmata.com by noon on Friday, April 3.This is a live event, and will be recorded and posted online within 48 hours with closed captioning. Follow our Facebook page to receive a notification when we go live on Sunday, April 5 at 2 p.m. UPDATE THURSDAY, 4/2/20 4:00 P.M.* COVID-19 Medicaid PagesBoth English and Spanish COVID-19 informational pages are live on their respective CoverVirginia websites. CoverVirginia is the home for information on Virginia's Medicaid and FAMIS programs.Medicaid Information Portal Federal Agency ResourcesUSA.gov is cataloging all U.S. government activities related to coronavirus. From actions on health and safety to travel, immigration, and transportation to education, find pertinent actions here.Federal Assistance Portal Mental Health ResourcesThe Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration’s (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline – 1-800-985-5990 (or text TalkWithUs to 66746) – provides 24/7 crisis counseling and support to anyone who is seeking help in coping with the mental or emotional effects caused by developments related to the coronavirus pandemic. Access Mental Health Resources U.S. Dept of Treasury CARES Act ImplementationThe U.S. Department of the Treasury has set up a website with up-to-date guidance on CARES Act implementation.Information From Treasury Distribution of Economic PaymentsDistribution of economic impact payments to individuals will begin in the next three weeks and will be distributed automatically, with no action required for most people. Social security recipients, who are not typically required to file a tax return, will automatically receive economic impact payments. Information About COVID-19 Relief Payments to Individuals Federal and State Coronavirus Tax ReliefThe Internal Revenue Service and Virginia Dept. of Taxation have set up websites with up-to-date guidance to help taxpayers, businesses and others affected by the coronavirus.Federal Taxpayer Relief Information State Taxpayer Relief Information Update for Businesses Governor Northam and cabinet members hosted a Webinar for business leaders today and discussed resources available to help recovery efforts as well as policy issues of interest to the business community. The video is available online. Video of Webinar For Business Leaders *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 4/1/20 6:00 P.M.* 911,000 cases in the world 200,000+ confirmed in the U.S.A. We are the COVID-19 center of the world where the growth is occurring NY has 83,000 VA today reported 1,484 cases, 234 new cases today, 19% increase 7 new deaths for a total of 34 1 in Arlington, 3 in Fairfax, 1 in Mt. Rodgers District, 1 in PWC and 1 in Va. Beach We're focused on social distancing and the levers we have Today, the Governor and staff addressed the models we're looking at All show a peak in the first week of May The University of Washington Model is the most optimistic and the most sensitive to our day to day count We also look at the University of Pennsylvania/CHIMES model We also have the UVA/DITRA model using UVA data We also look at FEMA modeling Models tell us: They all say we need to increase our ventilators by a significant factor We're also working our health systems to surge our capacity We are communicating to FEMA regularly All of that is a function of PPE and PPE is now the #1 issue on a Virginia and National level We've distributed what we have from the National Stockpile CDC says it should be prioritized for people who are treating COVID-19 patients where they are intubated or they are doing invasive procedures that creates airborne COVID-19 risk - primarily in ICU's It's a moving target based on supplies and burn rates We do not have enough We have done over 15,000 COVID-19 tests the growth in testing are in the commercial laboratories The rise at UVA/VCU/Health Systems to focus on hospitalized patients The capacity that's been used by public health lab is directed by the priorities of the health districts and the VDH Most of it is post-acute They are also focused on nursing homes and symptomatic health workers, first responders, and patients in hospitals without a lab What is on the horizon? Turn around time is getting gradually better The other thing we're looking for is that for commercial testing kids from shipped by Abbott Labs 50,000 went out today, but we need 500,000 per day and not 50,000 per day nationally We don't have the same testing availabilty in the USA that they have in Europe and Asia Budget/Finance Update Can the Commonwealth ask the feds to fill a budget gap and push our filing deadlines? No. The U.S. Treasury has made clear that's not an allowable use Even if we were to borrow from a bank, it would not change the legal implications - automatic cuts to the budget if we changed our payment deadline The Virginia State Society of CPA's now understand and will advocate our position but will be asking use to abate interest, but the General Assembly will need to approve that Also important to note that there is a difference between the filing date and the payment date The filing date without penalties with an extension is November 1 However, if you have any obligation, the payment date used to be 5/1, now it's 6/1 We will assess no penalties if you pay by 6/1 Localities are also pushing us not to delay sales tax remittance revenues as well Elections Update The Department of Elections/Registrars is urging everyone voting in May to vote by Absentee Everyone can use reason 2A - disability/illness Virginia is also aware of the June Primary You can also use the 2A reason for that election Candidate/voting deadlines are all in the Code and cannot be modified by the Governor Economic Update The Commonwealth has been in conversation with private banks, community banks, credit unions to consider default programs - most are offering the same or similar deferral terms Typically 3 months where you pay it back over 12 months waiving late fees We are still waiting for guidance from the SBA for the paycheck protection loans Banks and credit unions that participate in the 7A program can make those loans The Economic Injury Disaster Program is still ongoing There are some new terms under that the stimulus act businesses who need an emergency bridge loan can get a $10K advance within 3 days It should come within 3 days of a completed application There's a bridge loan program - the SBA Express Bridge Loan Small businesses can get those from 7A lenders Up to $25,000 Both are available for qualifying expenses - payroll, rent, mortgage, etc. Housing Virginia Housing Development Authority is offering for all loans they are backing for 3 months deferral with payments made back over 12 months with waived late fees Individuals needs to show hardship due to COVID-19 Unemployment The new stimulus act we have expanded benefits Our numbers will come out tomorrow at 830 AM We have increased availability to independent contractors and the increased weekly benefit checks are going out Highest benefit is $948 for 4 months We've seen more furloughs and government closures this week System is running low, but we've upgrade server capacity to move it along Does an employer have to notify other employees if a worker tests positive? We're looking into it We encourage it without revealing who it was due to the ADA If an employee is furloughed for two weeks is he eligible for unemployment? Yes If a work week is cut back - e.g. cut from 5 days to 3 days - can you claim? Yes, we pay a partial benefit Email for questions is workforce@governor.virginia.gov Public Safety We've had positive tests among workers and inmates at a prison facility in Goochland HB264 - People are asking for online concealed weapon permit testing during emergencies The bill has delayed effectiveness so it's not an issue right now The Commonwealth is looking at possibly allowing curbside mixed drink sales News on that will be forthcoming Human Services/Benefits Everyone needs to understand there is a statewide shortage of PPE Hospitals are competing against other states There have been questions about elective surgeries It's meant to prevent procedures that can wait a couple of months It is based on CDC guidance Dentists and Primary Care Physicians - the most important thing to know is that clinicians have discretion about making decisions are necessary to prevent a bad patient outcome It's important to remember is the only way to get to the downside is to adhere to the Executive Orders Anyone who has financial circumstances that have changed should apply for SNAP benefits through www.commonhealth.virginia.gov Options for children with significant disabilities supported by private day schools Governor's order to close K-12 applies to public/private Some private day schools provide medical care in addition to K-12 The Children Services Act provides funding for the states share of this The decision to provide services under the closure order is a LOCAL decision The Secretary has made it clear to localities and that we will continue to reimburse them if the local government is paying them In the last 48 hours, we're improving our data gathering and trying to get consistency in reporting from health systems We have 208 current hospitalizations, 145 are in an ICU bed, 108 on a ventilator - that's with 2000 ventilators Currently we are using 540 ventilators around the Commonwealth which is 25% of what we have (other non-COVID illnesses require ventilators) *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 4/1/20 1:30 P.M.* Update from DMVUntil at least April 23, all Virginia DMV customer service centers will remain closed due to ongoing concerns about COVID-19. The validity of driver and vehicle credentials, including Commercial Driver Licenses and Medical Examiner Certificates, has been extended.Learn More Update for Economically-Impacted FamiliesThe Campaign for a Family Friendly Economy (CFFE) is hosting a tele-townhall meeting with Governor Northam THIS Thursday, April 2 at 10:00AM. It will be moderated by Tara Gibson, Executive Director of the CFFE. The Governor will share his vision for meeting the challenges ahead, and allow time for Virginians to share their personal experiences directly with him about how the pandemic is directly impacting their families and jobs across the Commonwealth. You can RSVP below:Tele-townhall with Governor Northam and Campaign For a Family Friendly EconomyThursday, April 2, 10:00 A.M. RSVP FOR TELE-TOWN HALL Update for Homeowners Recent federal legislation included a 120-day eviction moratorium on certain properties. More information is linked below. Information from National Housing Law ProjectUpdate for Mt. Vernon Residents THIS SATURDAY, April 4, join Supervisor Dan Storck, School Board Member and Chair Karen Corbett Sanders, School Superintendent Scott Brabrand and County Health Director Dr. Gloria Addo-Ayensu at 10 a.m. for a virtual Town Meeting on Coronavirus (COVID-19). The meeting will include the latest updates from the Mount Vernon District, FCPS and the Health Department, and viewers will have the opportunity to get their questions answered. The program will air live on Facebook, Channel 16, Cox Channel 16, Verizon/Comcast Channel 16 and FCPS Channel 21. RSVP and Tune In To Mt. Vernon Fairfax County and FCPS Town Hall YOU can ask questions in a variety of ways. In advance of Saturday, send email questions to MtVernon@fairfaxcounty.gov. During the program, you can email, post questions to our Facebook Live Feed, Tweet us @DanStorck or call the call-in line at 703-324-1114. *UPDATE TUESDAY, 3/31/20 12:00 P.M.USDA Commodity Food ProgramVDACS has received a USDA waiver to allow for seniors over 60 participating in the USDA Commodity Food Program to receive their monthly food and to minimize physical contact during the COVID-19 outbreak. Participants are no longer required to sign for the food they receive. Additionally, participants are able to receive 2 boxes every other month rather than one box monthly. This will minimize the number of distributions without limiting the amount of food.For seniors who may have limited access to internet-based information, they can call 211 to talk with an operator who can share nutrition and food assistance information based on their address or visit 211virginia.org.Food InsecurityIndividuals in the Commonwealth who are experiencing food insecurity are encouraged to visit https://vafoodbanks.org/ to locate a food bank nearest to them.Domestic Violence HotlineA reminder that the Department of Social Services is maintaining its Domestic Violence Hotline. Victims of domestic violence are encouraged to report their case to the hotline: 1-800-838-8238U.S. Census BureauThe U.S. Census Bureau has suspended its 2020 Census field operations for an additional two weeks to April 15, 2020. Further information on the 2020 Census and a link to fill yours out can be found here:Information from U.S. Census UPDATE MONDAY, 3/30/20 5:40 P.M.* The following is my update from today's conference call with the Governor's staff: We have 1,020 confirmed Virginia cases 25 Deaths 136 hospitalizations 104 hospitalized patients have been discharged 547 ICU beds in Virginia are currently in use of 2083 - most are non-COVID patients They haven't perceived a ton of non-compliance problems - a couple restaurants, but the beaches were the big problem The Federal Major Declaration request was signed and has been submitted. The Governor issued a new Executive Order today Nothing the new order affects anything other than recreation and entertainment businesses There's been some questions about lawn and garden businesses - Florists are non-essential, but it selling dirt, mulch, materials, then you are essential Governor at this time is not requiring people to carry documentation that they are travelling to an essential employment type job The stay at home order says you can continue to travel into work to the extent you cannot telecommute The Governor has not closed down short term stays at hotels or AirBnB's yet, but they have limited temporary stays at campgrounds They are working on VHDA to require modifications on some of their loans - they are also requiring property owners to pass along their benefits to tenants as well Are working on help for other home owners - the Act passed by Congress last week will allow some new programs for eviction abatement They are working on funding with FEMA for homeless people who cannot maintain social distancing in their existing housing They are also working on updated guidance for people who use housing vouchers Testing capacity is improving every week Lack of access to testing resources is the biggest problem DMAS will also allow Medicaid reimbursement for telehealth happening at home and allowing for telephone only consultations They are working on food insecurity issues - SNAP benefits are still available, but also due to a new federal law, they can also administer the maximum SNAP benefit to families based on household size. This is in effect for the next 2 months. Text Food to 877877 - to find a drop off site for food for children Guidance for maternal health Still trying to figure out how it affects different populations Expectant mothers are deemed higher risk because we don't know if the virus can be passed to infants yet The Governor's Order was extended to June 10 because that was consistent with the prior order - Executive Order No. 53 It could be lifted between now and then if the curve flattens *UPDATE MONDAY, 3/30/20 2:30 P.M.* Updated Social Distancing Order Here's the text of Governor Northam's Order: Executive Order No. 55 - Full Text Governor Northam ordered all Virginia residents to stay at home unless they need to leave for the following necessary purposes: a. Obtaining food, beverages, goods, or services as permitted in Executive Order 53; b. Seeking medical attention, essential social services, governmental services, assistance from law enforcement, or emergency services; c. Taking care of other individuals, animals, or visiting the home of a family member; d. Traveling required by court order or to facilitate child custody, visitation, or child care; e. Engaging in outdoor activity, including exercise, provided individuals comply with social distancing requirements; f. Traveling to and from one’s residence, place of worship, or work; g. Traveling to and from an educational institution; h. Volunteering with organizations that provide charitable or social services; i. Leaving one’s residence due to a reasonable fear for health or safety, at the direction of law enforcement, or at the direction of another government agency. Update for Small Businesses The U.S. Chamber of Commerce released the short fact sheet below to help small businesses apply for loans established by the recent federal legislation: U.S. Chamber of Commerce Loan Fact Sheet *UPDATE SUNDAY, 3/29/20 11:30 A.M.* Update for ParentsThe Virginia Public Access Project published civics education material on their website below. VPAP is also regularly updating data about the COVID-19 crisis.VPAP Civics Whiz VPAP COVID-19 Coverage WMATA Town Hall Today Join us on Sunday, March 29 at noon for our first Virtual Town Hall regarding COVID-19 and Metro's response to the pandemic. The questions employees submitted will be addressed live by General Manager/CEO Paul J. Wiedefeld, Chief Operating Officer Joe Leader, Chief Safety Officer Theresa Impastato, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Amy Espy-Smith, and ATU Local 689 President Raymond Jackson.Event Details What: Virtual Town Hall When: Sunday, March 29 at 12 p.m. Where: Metro Forward Facebook If you are using a mobile device, enter "Metro Forward" in the search bar on your Facebook homepage to view our profile.*UPDATE FRIDAY, 3/27/20 6:00 P.M.* Today, we had our regular conference call with the Governor's team regarding the status of the COVID-19 outbreak. Testing results are lagging actual tests largely by 4-6 days. The Supreme Court has extended the Judicial Emergency previously declared to April 20, 2020. I missed the first 15 minutes of the call and will try to get and update on what I missed. All Virginians have an extension for filing taxes until November 1, but you still need to pay estimated monies owed by June 1, 2020 in order to abate interest. We cannot extend the payment until July 1 because it is a different fiscal year and would have significant legal implications. The federal funds coming are not going to be taxable under Virginia law because they will be treated as federal refunds. This will cause a negative fiscal impact to the Virginia budget in the future. The Administration is working on guidance for graduating seniors to ensure this interruption will not interfere with timely graduation. We're likely to receive over $60M of relief for our schools from the federal relief They are looking into whether additional flexibility might be needed for homeschooled kids About half of childcare centers have temporarily closed voluntarily. The Commonwealth is working on guidance on funding emergency childcare for essential workers. The number for emergency childcare information is 866.KIDS.LC Every public college/private college has moved to online learning. There are monies for higher education in the Federal Stimulus bill. The Governor will also be receiving $3 billion that the state will have to allocate to higher education institutions. All of the universities are working on their refund policies. Masks in public should be ok because the intent to conceal identity is required. The next order might lift the prohibition on wearing masks in public Administration is working with localities to encourage release from local jails. Parole Board and Corrections are reviewing their authority to release inmates who might be susceptible to COVID infections and they are considering whether to act. ABC Sales are way up. ABC stores will stay open as long as its safe for employees and the public. There will be authority in the federal Stimulus bill for unemployment assistance for independent contractors. The Commonwealth is waiting for guidance on how to implement. They hope to have authority on Monday. The Commonwealth is bolstering its website and staffing to help handle the volume. They are encouraging everyone to apply through the Commonwealth's website instead of going in person. The VEC will update their FAQ on their website on Monday after their get better guidance from the U.S. Department of Labor. Update for Small Businesses The state has introduced several measures to combat the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, including the release of Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Rapid Response funding to support Northern Virginia employers to remain open during this emergency. These funds are intended to assist local employers to avert layoffs and support other operational needs. These strategies and activities are designed to prevent, or minimize the duration of, unemployment resulting from layoffs due to the COVID-19 crisis. How it Works: A business with employees located in Northern Virginia (Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties and the cities of Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas and Manassas Park) that has 250 or fewer employees is eligible. Fill out the COVID-19 Rapid Response funding application and budget spreadsheet. Submit your completed application to Seema Jain, VP of Operations, at seema.jain@vcwnorthern.com. Application requests shall not exceed $25,000. Smaller requests are encouraged. Decisions for funding approval for applications will be made within two (2) business days of submission. Approved employers are required to enter into an agreement with the SkillSource Group, Inc. that will outline the project deliverables and outcomes. For all grant contracts, SkillSource will reimburse the company for expenses, up to the approved contract amount. Examples of Acceptable Use of Funding: Layoff aversion funds could be used for innovative strategies to maintain business operations, such as: a cleaning/sanitization service. the purchase of software/programs that employees would need to use from home to support their work. the purchase of remote access supplies, including laptop computers and/or smart phones, which the employees would need to use from home to support their work. other innovative methods that keep businesses open and workers employed Funding cannot be used for employee payroll and fringe benefit expenses. Update on Federal Legislation From Virginia Chamber and Congressman Don Beyer Small businesses $349B for the “Paycheck Protection Program” to directly assist small businesses, self-employed individuals, and independent contractors. Businesses can receive a loan equal to 2.5 times their average monthly payroll (up to $10M). Applies to businesses with fewer than 500 employees at one worksite (or applicable Small Business Administration (SBA) size standards). Employers that maintain payroll will have the portion of the loan used for payroll costs, interest on mortgage obligations, rent, and utilities forgiven. Loans are potentially 100% forgivable grants. Even forgiven loans will not be taxable. Loans can be used on rent, expenses and payroll for employees up to $100k annual salary. Retroactive to February 15 and extends to June 30, 2020. 501(c)3 organizations, churches, and other non-profits are eligible for assistance through this program; however, 501(c)6 organizations (chambers of commerce) are not. $17B for the SBA to pay principal, interest, and fees on all existing SBA loan products (7(a), Community Advantage, 504, and Microloan programs) for six months. 10-year amortization period. 5-year lookback to recover taxes based on losses this year. In other words, you can get money back from your 2016 taxes due based on losses this year. The loans are federally guaranteed - no need for collateral. Loans will be distributed by your regular bank. Any bank or credit union can quickly sign up to be part of the 7A program. This means the SBA should not hold anything up with unnecessary paperwork. Businesses over 500 employees per worksite $500B to Treasury’s Exchange Stabilization Fund for emergency relief. $454B for loans and loan guarantees in support of facilities established by the Fed under 13(3) authority to provide liquidity to businesses, states, and municipalities. $17B set aside in loans and loan guarantees for businesses important to “maintaining national security.” The duration of loans and loan guarantees cannot exceed five years. Labor Provisions Increases the maximum unemployment benefit by $600/week (in addition to what states pay) through July 2020. Includes individuals who are part-time and independent contractors (“gig workers”). Extends UI by 13 weeks beyond what states typically allow. Tax Provisions Employers (regardless of size) that continue paying employees who are furloughed may be eligible for a 50% refundable payroll tax credit on up to $10,000 of wages paid to those employees, known as the “employee retention tax credit". Businesses that file for the employee retention tax credit are not eligible to receive SBA loan assistance via the “Paycheck Protection Program.” Employers can delay the payment of their 2020 payroll taxes until 2021 and 2022. Health Care Provisions +$140B for the national health care system. $100B for a new grant fund for hospitals, public entities, and nonprofit entities to cover unreimbursed health care related expenses or lost revenues from the COVID-19 outbreak. Cancelling elective surgeries dries up the revenue stream for hospitals. $16B for the Strategic National Stockpile to procure medical supplies for federal and state response efforts. $11B for R&D of vaccines and diagnostics to address COVID-19. $4.3B for the Centers for Disease Control. $185M for rural health programs (hospitals and telehealth programs). Individual Provisions Establishes a one-time tax rebate check of $1,200 per individual(s) with an adjusted gross income of ≤$75,000 for single filers and ≤$150,000 for joint filers, with an additional $500 per child. Rebate checks would phase down for individuals above those salary thresholds and would phase out for single filers earning above $99,000 and joint filers with no children earning above $198,000. Waives the 10% penalty for early distributions from 401(k)s and IRAs made at any time during 2020. Government Provisions $150B for state and local governments, with an $8B set aside for large locality local governments - Fairfax County is the only locality in Virginia which will receive money from this fund. Each state would receive a minimum of $1.25B - DC is only getting $500M The U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship also produced a thorough guide for small businesses. The Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act *UPDATE THURSDAY, 3/26/20 6:30 P.M.* Update on GW ParkwayOutdoor areas of the George Washington Memorial Parkway including Great Falls Park, Theodore Roosevelt Island and Fort Hunt Park are open including trails, picnic areas, overlooks and green-spaces. In effort to slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and encourage social distancing, the George Washington Memorial Parkway is limiting access to the following parking areas; Great Falls Park, Theodore Roosevelt Island, and Belle Haven Park on Saturdays and Sundays. Parking lots at Theodore Roosevelt Island, and Belle Haven Park are temporarily closed on Saturdays and Sunday. The parking lot at Great Falls Park is restricted to only 2/3 capacity on Saturdays and Sundays. All restrooms and porta-johns in the park are temporarily closed.Park staff continue to monitor conditions and may make operational changes. The NPS is focused on ensuring employees, their families, volunteers, and visitors are following the most current guidance from the CDC, OPM, OEM, and other federal, state, and local health authorities.Park Rangers remind you to: Observe CDC’s guidance of maintaining a distance of six feet from people if you choose to visit a park, go for a hike, or exercise outside. Be prepared before you leave and time outings so that you are not dependent on public restrooms —park users will find that all public restrooms are closed. Do not use trails if you have symptoms, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and wash your hands frequently. Bring water or drinks—public drinking fountains may be disabled and should not be used, even if operable. Bring a suitable trash bag. Leave no trash, take everything out to protect park workers. Carry hand sanitizer. Signs will be posted at affected locations. Park visitors are asked to adhere to all closure notices and current social distancing recommendations.Hiking trails are open at Great Falls Park but following guidance from the CDC and recommendations from state and local public health officials, Great Falls Park Visitor Center is temporarily closed, and fee operations have been suspended. Clara Barton NHS is also temporarily closed.Information for Small BusinessesThe National Federation of Independent Businesses prepared information below about about preliminary understanding about the small business forgivable loans included in the stimulus bill coming through Congress. This information is new and still pending so things could change.Who is Eligible? Businesses of 500 employees or fewer, businesses within the SBA small business size threshold, self-employed individuals (sole-proprietors and independent contractors), and accommodation and food services businesses (NAICS Code 72) with 500 or fewer employees per location and less than $500 million in gross annual receipts in 2019, any business assigned a franchise operator code from , and any business that receives assistance under the Small Business Investment Act. If you had employees, you had to have been in business on 2/15/2020 and paid taxes on your employees or paid independent contractors. All applications must certify the following: The uncertainty of current economic conditions makes necessary the loan request to support the ongoing operations of the eligible recipient. Acknowledging that funds will be used to retain workers and maintain payroll or make mortgage payments, lease payments, and utility payments. What Can You Use the Loan On? Payroll costs - Which include salary or wages, family and sick leave, allowance for dismissal or separation, health care benefits, retirement benefits, payment of state and local tax assessed on the compensation of an employee, the sum of payments to an independent contractor. Salaries in excess of 100k are not covered, compensation of employees outside of the US are not covered, and sick or family leave where a payroll tax credit is already taken are not covered. Payments on a mortgage obligation Rent Utilities Interest on any other debt obligations that were incurred before 2/15/2020. The loan can only be used on these expenses incurred between 2/15/2020 and June 30, 2020 Where Do You Get the Loan? Loans would be available immediately through more than 800 existing SBA-certified lenders, including banks, credit unions and other financial institutions, and SBA would be required to streamline the process to bring additional lenders into the program. The Treasury Secretary would be authorized to expedite the addition of new lenders and make further enhancements to quickly expedite delivery of capital to small employers. Maximum Size of the Loan Multiply the average total monthly payments for payroll costs incurred during the one-year period before the date the loan was made by 2.5 or $10,000,000. The recipient shall receive the lesser of the two. In the case of seasonal employers the average total employees shall be calculated for the period between 2/15/19 and 6/30/19. Payment DefermentsPayments on principal, interest, and fees will be deferred for at least six months and up to one year after the loan is issued. Interest RatesShall not exceed 4% Loan Maturity10 years CollateralThere is no personal/individual guarantee on the loan. The SBA guarantees 100% of the loan. Prepayment PenaltyNone, all prepayment penalties are waived. Loan Forgiveness The following costs will be forgiven during the eight-week period starting the day the loan is issued and ending in eight weeks. Payroll costs (including everything listed above) Payments on interest of any mortgage obligation Rent Utilities Forgiveness amount may not exceed principal amount of the loan The amount forgiven will be reduced proportionally by any reduction in employees retained compared to the prior year and reduced by the reduction in pay of any employee beyond 25 percent of their prior year compensation. To encourage employers to rehire any employees who have already been laid off due to the COVID-19 crisis, borrowers that re-hire workers previously laid off will not be penalized for having a reduced payroll at the beginning of the period. GrantsAll those applying for a loan will be eligible for a $10,000 emergency grant to be issued within three days of the application being received. Applicants must certify under threat of perjury that they believe they are eligible for the loan.The emergency EIDL grant award of up to $10,000 would be subtracted from the amount forgiven under the Paycheck Protection Program. Interaction With Previous SBA Loans The SBA Administrator has the authority to purchase loans made before the date of enactment of this act and cover payments for up to six months for the borrower. If an applicant has an SBA loan taken out on or after 1/31/20 they have the option to refinance the loan in to a PPL loan. Congressman Beyer is also hosting a webinar about how the bill will affect business tomorrow:Business Webinar with Congressman Don Beyer Friday, March 27th 4:00pm-5:00pm Join the webinar UPDATE THURSDAY, 3/26/20 10:30 A.M.* Personal Protective Equipment in Virginia HospitalsDuring this difficult time, Virginia hospitals appreciate any and all assistance to help protect healthcare workers and prevent the further spread of the virus. If you or someone you know would like to donate to hospitals, please click below to find a link to our hospitals that are taking donations.Donate Supplies Hospitals currently have need for the following supplies: N95s (standard and surgical) Gowns (surgical, isolation) Masks Gloves (latex free) Face shield Hand sanitizer (>60% alcohol), all size containers Disinfectant supplies Nasopharyngeal swabs oropharyngeal swab (OP or NP) If you have needed PPE to sell, please fill out this form and it will be forwarded to supply chain leads at hospitals.Vendor Form Hospital CapacityYesterday, the Governor announced a new order prohibiting inpatient and outpatient surgical hospitals, free-standing endoscopy centers, physicians’ offices, and dental, orthodontic, and endodontic offices in the Commonwealth from providing procedures and non-emergency surgeries that require PPE. Currently, hospitals have the capacity to treat patients with COVID-19 as well as patients with other conditions. Additionally, our hospitals have plans to address emergencies that result in a surge of patients, and those plans have been updated to respond to the COVID-19 crisis.As a reminder, hospitals, blood donation centers, and the American Red Cross are urging healthy people to donate blood because social distancing has resulted in the cancellation of thousands of blood drives, leading to a serious blood shortage. Please consider donating blood if you are able.Information from Virginia Hospitals Information for Small BusinessesThe U.S. Small Business Administration declared Virginia an Economic Disaster Zone which makes our businesses eligible for loans. Applicants are encouraged to apply online at the link below. If you do not have access to a computer or smartphone, please call SBA at 1-800-659-2955 for assistance. Apply for Relief Online Contact your local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for assistance with applying for the Economic Injury Loan Disaster(EILD).Disaster Office Hours of Operation1-800-659-2955-Disaster Assistance (EILD)Monday-Friday8:00 am-8:00 pmWeekendsSaturday & Sunday9:00 am-5:00 pmSBA Virginia Richmond District Office 804-771-2400Email: richmond.va@sba.gov COVID-19 Small Business & Loan Resources *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 3/25/20 6:00 P.M.* First, the Department of Health has prohibited all non-urgent elective medical procedures that cannot be performed without Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). That will last 30 days and be re-evaluated. His order can be found here: Governor's Public Health Order Prohibiting Elective Procedures In other updates: As expected, 101 new cases of COVID-19 reported yesterday Testing: We are continuing to see challenges with testing, but we see increased capacity at UVA, VCU, and independent labs are continuing to take tests with a 4-6 day turnaround which works with patients who are not critical Testing Criteria We do adjust criteria based on factors in communication with the state laboratory which can turn around tests in 6-12 hours - testing capacity (increased capacity over the last 2 weeks), but focus is on rapid turnaround Request for labs go through local district director first The second wave is the increase in the medical centers and large health system standing up their own tests. Once that happens criteria will be broadened. We're also getting better supplies of viral transport media so people can be tested. We have not been able to expand to sentinel testing yet - asymptomatic people - we need high quantities of tests that we don't have yet. Personal Protective Equipment We've received two alloquats from the National Stockpile that have been very small compared with demand and we're not optimistic that the National Stockpile will help meet demand. We requested 1.6 million items and got 15% of the request. Our second allocation will come next week and will be woefully short - 6,020 masks and the need is in the millions. We have received 50% of what they have. New York is demanding that they should receive all of it. Virginia competing with other states for the same stuff. FEMA is trying to coordinate it. We're hopeful that the Commonwealth will be the supplied of last resorts and to coordinate federal supplies We are scouring the Commonwealth that can convert materials into PPE and looking for new sources in Virginia We are continuing to focus on containment and social distancing. Unemployment Is heavily regulated by the Federal Government. About 83% of employers pay in to the unemployment trust. We've been strong today. Unemployment until now was 2.3-2.7% so the trust is well-funded. Employers pay in a basic tax and an experience tax based on layoffs. Currently, we've received expanded eligibility - businesses close, need to stay home with sick child or sick loved one if we have payroll data on them. If you are a 1099 independent contractors, gig workers, cab drivers, consultants, and religious faith based you do not get benefits because you do not pay into the trust We're encouraging anyone who has "lack of work" (check that box) to apply so we can be fully aware of the need People need to apply online and the Commonwealth is hiring people to staff call centers due to call volume in South Boston and Grundy and back office in Lynchburg and Covington where they are hiring We used to get 2,000 claims per day, but report is coming out tomorrow, but we have never seen claims like this It takes 1-2 weeks for deposits to start Largest amount today per worker is $378/week Possible Federal Stimulus Package - Not Passed by Congress Yet Currently looks like the largest benefit may go up to $600/week on top of the $378/week We are fixing our technology system to handle that We've heard we might be able to give 1099 or sole proprietors benefits, but it might be only the $600/week benefit and not the $378 If you layoff your employees, your prospective premiums will could go up, but we are still assessing how the new federal benefit packages will work If employers can get through this, the sticker shock of replenishing the trust fund will be dramatic and we're going to continuing talking to our Congressional delegation for federal support for that They are examining whether employers can pay health benefits, but cut off salaries while maintaining employee's eligibility for unemployment benefits Barbershops - if you have 1-2 chairs in your office you cannot continue to operate. We're trying to keep people away from each other. Professionals may go to individual homes and provides those services in customer's homes Pest Control Industry - They are not affected by the executive order. They can continue to operate. Dental Services - Routine dental services are not covered under the order, but many dentists have stopped routine procedures but provide emergency procedures. Dental services are some of the high risk services to cause disease spread. CDC has recommended to shut down so Commonwealth followed. Commerce Updates The Virginia Department of Commerce is spearheading Virginia-based development of PPE A number of businesses have stepped up - Micron, Home Depot, Dominion, McKesson There are many scammers out there trying to sell the Commonwealth PPE We're assessing businesses based on severe, moderate or minor impacts Restaurants and travel have major impacts We haven't seen impacts in manufacturing and construction yet, but it's probably coming - Volvo Truck in Dublin, VA has ceased Some businesses are doing better - Grocery, internet sales, delivery We expect all businesses to exercise care, social distancing, and santization Worker safety is paramount concern to everyone Stimulus Package Loan package is looking around $350 billion to small businesses. Some percentages might be converted into grants upon keeping workers on payroll one year through the SBA. $500 billion corporate aide package for larger corporations. Some will be administered through the Federal Reserve. There is $130-$150 billion for our healthcare systems. There's another $150 billion to state/local governments for Corona virus costs. Each state gets a minimum of $1.5 billion, but states with larger impacts will participate more broadly. Tax Returns We cannot move our filing date the same as the federal date due to our tax year. It would result in a $2.5 billion change to our budget which would trigger all kinds of issues. *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 3/25/20 2:45 P.M.* Virginia Medical Reserve CorpsDuring his press conference today, Governor Northam urged Virginians with medical experience to volunteer for the Medical Reserve Corps. The Virginia Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a force of dedicated volunteers who stand ready to support the community in the event of a public health emergency. Each of the 27 local MRC units is comprised of teams of medical and public health professionals who, along with interested community members, volunteer their skills, expertise and time to support ongoing public health initiatives and assist during emergencies throughout Virginia.The success of our response to a large-scale public health event, such as a pandemic or bioterrorism attack, depends on how quickly and effectively we can mobilize MRC volunteers.MRC units throughout the state actively improve and protect their community’s public health by supporting: Health education and preventative health screenings. Efforts to provide medical services to at-risk populations. Communicable disease outbreak response. Volunteer emergency preparedness training and exercises. Local, state and national response to terrorism attacks and disasters; providing staffing support for medical services, emergency shelters, mental health outreach, dispensing sites for medications and vaccinations, disease investigations and environmental health efforts for food and human safety. To become a VA Medical Reserve Corps Volunteer, please submit an application in the Virginia Volunteer Health System. Apply to Join The Virginia Medical Corps Update on State Parks State parks will remain open for day use only. Campgrounds and bathhouses are closing on Friday.More Information from State Parks Relief for Businesses and Employees Secretary Layne shared top lines information about the federal COVID-19 stimulus package. A few items included are: Direct payments of $1,200 to most individuals making up to $75,000, or $2,400 for couples making up to $150,000. The amount decreases for individuals with incomes above $75,000, and payments cut off for those above $99,000. Expanded unemployment benefits that boost the maximum benefit by $600 per week and provides laid-off workers their full pay for four months. This includes gig and part-time workers. $150 billion for state and local governments $367 billion in loans for small businesses that can be converted into grants if certain conditions are met Update from Metro On March 26, Metro will close 17 additional stations following the closures of Smithsonian and Arlington Cemetery stations last week. The 19 stations will remain closed until further notice and trains will pass through without stopping. Eisenhower Ave and Van Dorn St are among the stations that will close. The full list and more information is available at the link below. Station Closings and Metro Operation Status Updates *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 3/25/20 9:45A.M.* Information for Realtors Virginia REALTORS® created a resource page with information on handling the impacts of Coronavirus/COVID-19 on real estate. Information for Realtors Information for Independent BusinessesInfo on paid sick time, paid family leave, UI benefits, SBA vs. Business Interruption loans & Phase 3 discussions:NFIB Webinar on COVID-19 Phase 2 – the Families First Coronavirus Response Act FAQ page - Topics discussed include financial, wage & hour, public health and other legal employment questions.NFIB Small Business FAQs on COVID-19 General information for small businesses:NFIB Small Business COVID-19 Landing Page Update from Prince William County Prince William County has extended the Business Tangible Personal (BTP) Property tax filing deadline from April 15 to July 15, 2020. This extension will provide relief to the County’s business owners during this period of economic uncertainty and will align the filing date with the recently announced Internal Revenue Service date. Our hope is that this will help businesses impacted by the economic impact of COVID-19. The tax due date remains October 5th. *UPDATE TUESDAY, 3/24/2:30 P.M.* Farmers Markets in Virginia The Governor’s Office and VDACS (Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services) are NOT requiring farmers’ markets and other direct sales markets (such as breweries, microbreweries, distilleries, wineries and tasting rooms) to close for business. The guidance provided means that these markets may operate in a capacity that allows delivery and/or takeout services. On-site browsing or shopping is not an option under the intent of this order. Further information can be found here: Press Release RE: Closure of Non-Essential Businesses Federal Housing Finance Agency The U.S. FHFA has directed Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae to suspend foreclosures and evictions for at least 60 days due to the coronavirus national emergency. The foreclosure and eviction suspension applies to homeowners with an Enterprise-backed single-family mortgage. More information on the announcement can be found here: Foreclosure and Eviction SuspensionOfficial Guidance from Dept. of Housing and Urban Development Virginia's Coronavirus Homepage Virginia.gov has set up a website for all things coronavirus-related. All updates can be found below, and the site will continue to update as Virginia takes new action to curb the spread of COVID-19. https://www.virginia.gov/coronavirus-updates/ Update from Gunston Hall Visit our "Learning from Home" page and discover some delicious 18th-century recipes you can make at home. Learning from Home Parents, visit our "For Parents" page to find fun and educational activities for your children like making a battledore. What is a Battledore? *UPDATE TUESDAY, 3/24/20 10:00 A.M.* Update from Virginia Dept. Of Education Frequently Asked Questions Regarding School Closure Through End of Year A Guide for Parents Talking to Children about COVID-19 Childcare for Essential Personnel COVID-19 Fraud Task Force In response to the rapid increase in fraudulent scams, online websites, robocalls presented by COVID-19, the Virginia State Police joined its federal partners on Friday to announce the formation of the Virginia Coronavirus Fraud Task Force. The mission of the task force is to identify, investigate, and prosecute fraud related to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic in Virginia. The Virginia Fusion Center is also actively monitoring alleged fraudulent activity related to COVID-19 and sharing that information with local, state, and federal authorities. To report fraudulent activity, Virginians can notify the Virginia Fusion Center (VFC) at vfc@vfc.vsp.virginia.gov or visit the FBI website at www.ic3.gov. Additionally, any Virginian who would like to report fraudulent activity can file a complaint with the Office of the Attorney General at this website: File Fraud or Price Gouging Complaint Department of Corrections Today, the Department of Corrections announced that they are now manufacturing sneeze/cough guard masks for use by Virginia DOC staff and offenders. These are not medical grade masks but they will aid in the effort to keep COVID-19 out of the state’s correctional facilities. There are still no known cases of COVID-19 among offenders and staff in Virginia’s prisons. Update from Fairfax County Fairfax County parks (indoor), libraries, and community facilities are closed until further notice. This includes: recreation, nature, community, resource and teen centers, golf courses, historic sites, athletic fields, and picnic shelters. These closures also include: playgrounds, skate parks, and restrooms. Dog parks and trails remain open. NOVA Park trails like the W&OD Trail are open, with park offices closed. *UPDATE MONDAY, 3/23/20 6:00 P.M.* Today, we held our regular conference call with Governor Northam's official. Here is the status: 254 Confirmed COVID-19 Cases, 6 Fatalities (last three on the Penninsula), there are still areas across the entire Commonwealth UVA can process about 200 tests per day. State lab is doing test and the big volume is being done by Quest and Labcorps and take 4-6 days to respond. They are working on creating a Virginia facility with an 8-hour turnout but they are not there yet. There are some drive-by testing sites in Virginia and they are optimistic that will come online more broadly soon. If testing was robust then we could test everyone at point of care or test in a systematic way, but we don't have those resources yet PPE has been procured, but not yet arrived. It's a national problem that requires a national solution. NY has a 1 week supply. Cutting elective surgery has reduced VA's burn rate of PPE, but we are still worried about supply after 3-4 weeks. The National Guard is continuing to plan around surge capability and planning sites should it become necessary. Governor Northam issued a new executive order today. The order and the Frequently Asked Questions can be found here: Text of Executive Order No. 52 Directing Further School and Business ClosuresFrequently Asked Questions Governor's order has 3 categories of businesses Recreational and entertainment - they must close by midnight tomorrow. If business is NOT included on the list, then it does not need to close such as golf courses and outdoor trails. Essential businesses - Grocery, pharmacy, gas stations, banks, etc. as set forth in the order. Non-essential retail - Brick and mortar stores that are considered non-essential. If your business is NOT on the essential business list, then must shut down unless you can honor 10 person limit and social distancing Food facilities - dining/congregation areas are closed, but can stay open for takeout and delivery only plus must honor social distancing and enhanced sanitizing. There are many questions about what is essential: For example, construction is not listed as having restrictions so it is not restricted. Likewise, county/government workers are not restricted (other than social distancing) Telework should be required by all businesses if possible. Governor announced K-12 Schools will be closed through rest of the academic year This was based on CDC guidance that 8-12 week closures are better than 2-4 week closures Student Learning - DoE is putting out guidance this evening on continued learning. There was a pause over the last two week, but schools will now be expected to begin instruction. Some may involve instruction over the summer to be decided by local schools. Essential Personnel/Childcare - Last week, Department of Social Services provided updated guidance asking daycares to ask families to keep children to stay home if they can so they can have capacity to serve essential personnel and they've asked childcare centers to consider continuing to serve children of essential personnel. Child room sizes should be limited to 10 kids. Virginia Department of Education COVID-19 FAQ They are putting out a Parent Handbook to assist parents working with their children's day to day education Violation of the Governor's Executive Order remains a Class 1 Misdemeanor There are a number of Virginia businesses try to step up and manufacture PPE The National Guard has been activated and have been involved in planning. They have not been assigned any missions yet. ABC has provided more flexible regulations on beer and wine sale. ABC stores are open. Department of Corrections They are producing and manufacturing masks (they were making furniture). They made 8,000 yesterday and provided 4 masks per inmate and staff yesterday. There are no known cases in the correctional system and they are doing their best to keep the virus out of the facilities They are very aware that they have some populations that are susceptible and they are being careful There are 200 juveniles in detention who are being monitored. 19.2-303 - Sheriff Stolle has seen 90 inmates released to alternate sentences in Virginia Beach. They are encouraging other Sheriff's to do the same thing. Rental Assistance If you have voucher, your ability to pay is based on income so if income is reduced, then rental payments are reduced If you are a regular tenant, The Virginia Housing Development Agency has some limited programs, but they are not robust Mortgage forebearance - There are programs administered by the FHMA which has directed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to suspend foreclosures The key focus over the next few weeks will be obtaining PPE. *UPDATE MONDAY, 3/23/20 4:00 P.M.* Here is a link to Governor Northam's latest executive order: Text of Executive Order No. 52 Directing Further School and Business ClosuresFrequently Asked Questions *UPDATE MONDAY, 3/23/20 3:00 P.M.* Update on Governor's Executive Actions Public and private schools will remain closed through the balance of the academic year. The Department of Education will be issuing guidance tomorrow regarding completion of the school year. Recreational and entertainment businesses such as bowling alleys must close. Restaurants, breweries, and other food and drink service businesses must offer take out and delivery only. Non-essential brick and mortar stores must restrict operations to 10 or fewer patrons at a time with adequate distancing or must close. Essential businesses such as grocery stores, pharmacies, medical providers, childcare businesses may remain open. Essential businesses must observe new stringent disinfectant protocols. Relief for Virginia Small BusinessesThe Virginia Small Business Development Centers network is hosting a webinar today, at 5:00 P.M. to review the application process for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) available for Virginia small businesses and non-profits.Click here to attend the Webinar - JOIN THE MEETING HEREMeeting ID: 606 202 441Phone: 646-558-8656CLICK HERE for a recorded presentation on filling out the EIDL Application, that will cover the same EIDL application overview. *UPDATE MONDAY, 3/23/20 11:30 A.M.* Access to CareHealth insurers in Virginia are responding to the Covid 19 coronavirus in a myriad of ways. Plans are eliminating barriers to care including waiving cost-shares, providing more virtual care options, and keeping members updated through mobile apps and websites with the latest information. Managed care organizations, charged with caring for the state’s Medicaid population, are in regular contact with the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) to look for ways to deliver critical services without a face-to-face interaction. This includes looking at telehealth and telemedicine options for providers and patients. DMAS has further applied for a 1135 waiver from the federal government granting more flexibility to enroll members in Medicaid and expand telehealth benefits during the crisis. Health insurers in the commercial market are also encouraging the use of telemedicine and virtual sites of care. This includes the following. Encouraging the use of 24/7 nurse phone lines to virtually access clinical resources at no cost to members. The nurses are trained in the latest screening and testing referral protocols. Paying for telephone-only consultations with clinician staff of primary care, general practice, internal medicine, pediatrics, OBGYN, and nurse practitioners with no member out-of-pocket cost. Utilizing mobile apps to answer member questions and conduct coronavirus assessments based on guidelines from the CDC and NIH. Providing emotional support for those members experiencing stress or anxiety via a 24/7 phone line and online at no cost to members. Health insurers across Virginia and the United States have agreed to waive cost-sharing requirements for testing. Health insurers have eliminated prior authorization requirements for medically necessary diagnostic tests and covered services related to COVID-19 diagnosis. Health insurers have waived early medication refill limits on 30-day maintenance medications. Health insurers are creating care packages to send to members diagnosed with COVID19 and proactively reaching out to those members who may be more at risk at contracting the virus. Health insurers are working with pharmacy partners to provide free delivery of medications and assist with mailing prescriptions. Health insurers are working with lab partners to support access to testing as it becomes available. In the self-insured market, which comprises nearly 40% of the insured in Virginia and where the self-insured company makes coverage determinations, insurance company administrators are automatically opting in companies to the waived cost-sharing provisions. CMS have changed rules to allow Medicare beneficiaries to receive more services without having to travel to a facility including loosening the requirement that members have an established provider relationship before seeking telemedicine services. For more information about this guidance, click here: Telemedicine Guidance for Medicare Beneficiaries For more detailed information on what each health plan in Virginia is doing both in the commercial space and for Medicaid, see the individual company press releases below. Aetna/CVS Anthem CareFirst Cigna Magellan Optima Piedmont United Virginia Premier Update for AT&T customers (more information about other telecom providers is below on 3/20 update) Not terminating the service of any wireless, home phone or broadband residential or small business customer because of their inability to pay their bill due to disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Waive any late payment fees that any wireless, home phone or broadband residential or small business customer may incur because of economic hardship related to the coronavirus pandemic. Keep our public Wi-Fi hotspots open for any American who needs them. The coronavirus pandemic is causing many hardships. If you find yourself in financial trouble and unable to pay your bill, please contact us at 800-288-2020 for AT&T broadband, residential wireless or small business services and 611 from your AT&T device for wireless. To provide further relief and support, AT&T announced: Unlimited AT&T Home Internet – All AT&T consumer home internet wireline customers, as well as Fixed Wireless Internet, can use unlimited internet data. Continue to offer internet access for qualifying limited income households at $10 a month through our Access from AT&T program. Expanded eligibility to Access from AT&T to households participating in the National School Lunch Program and Head Start. Offering new Access from AT&T customers two months of free service. Helping You Work and Learn Remotely – Businesses, universities and schools can keep their teams and classrooms connected through conference calls and video conferencing with Cisco Webex Meetings with AT&T for 90-days, and seamlessly forward calls to both mobile and landline phones with AT&T IP Flexible Reach. Distance Learning – AT&T is underwriting expenses for a “one-stop” resource center to support eLearning Days from the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA) available to all educators in schools to help them handle school closures and the increase in virtual learning due to COVID-19. Waiving wireless voice and data overage fees for customers nationwide. These fees will be retroactively waived, dating back to March. AT&T will not terminate the service of any wireless, home phone or broadband residential or small business customer because of their inability to pay their bill due to disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Video – We’re making over 50 news, entertainment and kids channels free on DIRECTV and U-verse. And we’ll offer additional premium programming over the next few weeks for all video customers—starting with SHOWTIME through March 26. The full list of channels and more can be found under “Expanded Content for Our Video Customers” on the Consumer tab. Business Customers - To keep our business customers connected, we’ve launched six new virtual Command Centers that are enabling the fast delivery of increased bandwidth, new circuits and unified communication services. This will help companies support their employees who are working from home. You can find more here under Businesses. Information from Burke and Herbert Bank We will be offering Drive Up Teller Services at several branches with this feature, and offering other banking services by appointment only inside these branches. Branches without Drive Up Teller Services will provide all branch banking services by appointment only. Our branch located at 621 King Street in Alexandria will be closed temporarily. ATM and night drop services remain available at this location and our Main Office branch is nearby. For your convenience, the complete list of our branches is provided at burkeandherbertbank.com along with the lobby and drive-up service hours, where applicable, for each location. Please use the telephone number provided for the branch nearest you to make an appointment as needed. We will work with you to find a convenient time and ensure you continue to get the banking services you need. Faith and Community Leaders Call This evening at 6:30, Governor Northam will be hosting a call with faith and community leaders from across the Commonwealth. More info and the signup page can be found here: Sign up for Faith Leaders Call *UPDATE SUNDAY, 3/22/20 7:00 P.M.* Relief for Virginia Small BusinessesThe Virginia Small Business Development Centers network is hosting a webinar tomorrow, Monday, March 22, at 2:00 P.M. to review the application process for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) available for Virginia small businesses and non-profits.Click here to attend the Webinar - JOIN THE MEETING HEREMeeting ID: 606 202 441Phone: 646-558-8656Adding a second presentation at 5pm that can handle a much larger crowd:CLICK HERE to register the Webinar CLICK HERE for a recorded presentation on filling out the EIDL Application, that will cover the same EIDL application overview.Meals for Students, Families, and Aging AdultsFairfax County's Meals on Wheels program is now delivering meals once-a-week. New clients are being accepted. Call the county's Coordinated Services Planning to apply.Call: 703-222-0880, TTY 711Monday-Friday, 8 am-4:30 pmAll of our local school systems are distributing meals to children during the school shutdown. There are over a dozen sites in the 36th District. Here are how you find the locations in Fairfax, Prince William and Stafford County: Fairfax County Public Schools Meal Sites FCPS Bus Route Meal Service Prince William County Public Schools Meal Sites Stafford County Public Schools Meal Sites Transit Update Metro announced expected rail and bus service levels for the week of Monday, March 23, through Friday, March 27. Transit service remains significantly scaled back to protect the health and safety of Metro employees, customers and the public as the COVID-19 outbreak continues to disrupt all aspects of life in the region. Metro asked the public to limit their use of Metro to essential travel only for nine days. Starting tomorrow, it will be even more imperative that the public follow this guidance. Metrorail: Trains will operate every 20 minutes on all lines except Red Line. Red Line trains will operate every 15 minutes. Stations serviced by multiple lines will see trains arrive every 7-10 minutes. For example, Rosslyn, served by the Blue, Orange and Silver lines, will have train service to DC about every 7 minutes. Smithsonian and Arlington Cemetery stations will remain closed until further notice to keep non-essential cherry blossom travel off the rail system at this time of national emergency. Metrobus: Buses will run on a modified Sunday schedule. Supplemental trips will not operate; however, some routes that provide weekday-only service to essential federal workplaces have been added to the schedule. Visit wmata.com for a list of routes that are – and are not – operating this week. Responding to a request from union leadership, beginning Tuesday, all Metrobus customers will enter and exit the bus using the REAR doors only, except customers who require use of a wheelchair ramp, which remains available at the front door. Metro is also temporarily suspending fare collection on Metrobus, because all farebox and SmarTrip equipment is located at the front door. Metro reserves the ability to discontinue this policy at any time. MetroAccess: All subscription trips remain canceled. Please limit all travel to only the most essential. Since moving to an “essential travel only” message on March 13, Metro ridership has declined with each successive commuting day as citizens following the guidance to stay home and practice social distancing to flatten the curve (rate of community spread). Rail ridership on Friday was down more than 86 percent and bus down 65 percent. Food Insecurity The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) is loosening income eligibility requirements for the Emergency Food Assistance Program to increase access during the COVID-19 outbreak. VDACS is also reducing the threat of exposure for seniors in the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) by changing delivery schedules—while maintaining the quantity of food—and removing delivery signing requirements. The Federation of Virginia Food Banks, representing seven regional food banks, is standardizing low- and no-touch distribution, pre-boxed items, and drive-through distribution mechanisms. *UPDATE SATURDAY, 3/21/20 4:30 P.M.* Cases in VirginiaPositive cases in VA up 37% from yesterday. The Virginia Department of Health website continues to update the status of cases in Virginia. As of noon today, 152 positive cases have been reported here in Virginia. Economic Impact30,000 people filed unemployment claims filed last week. That is a 1,500% increase over the week before when fewer than 2,000 people filed claims.Hospital Bed CapacityThe Governor issued an executive order to expand bed hospital bed capacity. The full text of the order is linked below.Executive Order 52: Increasing Hospital Bed Capacity Local Government Online Meetings Attorney General Mark Herring issued an advisory opinion outlining the authority of public bodies to conduct meetings and critical public business while maintaining social distancing needs and important transparency and accountability obligations. "The opinion says that Virginia law allows public bodies to conduct meetings electronically if 'the purpose of the meeting is to address the emergency,' which includes meeting 'to make decisions that must be made immediately and where failure to do so could result in irrevocable public harm.' " Department of CorrectionsVirginia DOC has worked with GTL, the offender phone service provider, to provide inmates with two free phone calls per week beginning March 19, 2020 through April 15, 2020. The two free calls will be applied to the first two calls the offender makes each week. They have suspended all visitation and all transfers to jails or prisons. *UPDATE FRIDAY, 3/20/20 6:00 P.M.* Here's the update I just received from the Administration this afternoon: We have 118 COVID cases in Virginia - 22 Hospitalized & 2 Deaths 2,000+ tests have been done - majority done by LabCorp/Quest UVA, Sentara and MCV are working on testing capacity Labs have a 5-day turnaround right now There is community spread - primary Penninsula but also in NOVA There are likely 2-3 cases in the Roanoke Valley - it's in all areas of VA now We're beyond containment and moving into mitigation Several facilities are in lockdown mode and one in quarantine Much testing capacity is being moved into Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities first to avoid casualties We are also attempting to develop our own testing kits instead of being reliant on the CDC The Governor is doing a daily update at 11:00 am every day The Alcohol Beverage and Control Division has implemented emergency measures to allow flexibility to restaurants to continue to serve Administration is working with local jails - issued guidelines regarding incarcerated populations, recommended law enforcement to use summonses instead of arrest warrants when possible, encouraged magistrates and judges to use alternatives to incarceration pending trial Recommended the use 19.2-303 to modify sentences for non-violent offenders presently incarcerated They have suspended all visitation and all transfers to jails or prisons They also have prohibited people from gathering at resturants in groups larger than 10, they have amended the order (governor.virginia.gov/executiveactions) to clearly states it applies to fitness centers, theatres to 10 patrons or less and any willful violation, refusal or neglect is a Class 1 Misdemeanor The Virginia Department of Health put in an order of their share of the strategic stockpile of Personal Protective Equipment when this broke out. Virginia received 5-10% of what it ordered which represented 50% of the national stockpile. It's being issued. There is a real shortage. The Commonwealth has issued guidance that any retailer who needed an extension to remit sales taxes, such as restaurants, hotels, and tourism companies, could get a 20 day extension upon request. They did not do a blanket referral because large retailer has already paid. That has a fiscal impact of $145M and every time we defer we don't eventually receive it. About $30M of those dollars would eventually got to localities which will be affected. The Governor also extended the filing of estimated payments from May 1 to June 1. This deferral will cause a fiscal impact of $100 million - potentially into the next fiscal year which starts July 1. A longer deferment could trigger larger problems because of the budget year and there's still uncertainty about federal actions or where the economy is going. It's been less than 30-days since the all-time high of the DJI and we have now seem a 30% reduction in wealth. The Secretary of Finance has been on the phone with our rating agencies attempting to assess the impact of all of this. We will need to have our budget forecasting process make new assessments starting in April because right now our revenues are delayed 30 days. So far we've seen a $250 million impact based on our administrative access. Virginia saw 30,871 unemployment claims in the last week - that is significantly higher than any other week Our rating agencies think that compared with National issue, we will see a 13% decline in GDP in the USA. If the virus behaves as we see it, it will be a 2% reduction and now rebound until Q4 and they see National unemployment at 9% and full employment restored in 2023 Our previous recession forecasting (which wasn't as pessimistic as the reality) was suggesting a $1 billion per year reduction in revenue over the next two years - we are expecting more than that which will require major budget adjustments. Before this our economy was strong in-part because so much of our economy is based upon government spending and generally our current economy is better positioned than other sister states, but this is going to be a significant blow to tourism, restaurants, and small businesses in the Commonwealth. Rebuilding the economy will be a major focus going forward. Our General Fund is fairly liquid. VRS is still fully funded and capable of making benefit payments. Going in, they were 75% funded and the reduction will be something we have to address going forward. We have $1.6 billion in reserves to help address this. We are trying to counterbalance our fiduciary responsibility to maintain core functions with business impacts. One member requested a deferral of all taxes. That would cost $7.2 billion and is not realistic.\ They are working with hospitals, National Guard and FEMA to have possible alternate treatment sites should that become necessary. They are identifying sites. *UPDATE FRIDAY, 3/20/20 1:30 P.M.* Update from our cable providers:If you live in a Comcast territory: Comcast is taking steps to implement the following new policies for the next 60 days, and other important initiatives: Xfinity WiFi Free For Everyone: Xfinity WiFi hotspots across the country will be available to anyone who needs them for free – including non-Xfinity Internet subscribers. For a map of Xfinity WiFi hotspots, visit www.xfinity.com/wifi. Once at a hotspot, consumers should select the “xfinitywifi” network name in the list of available hotspots, and then launch a browser. Pausing Our Data Plan: With so many people working and educating from home, we want our customers to access the internet without thinking about data plans. While the vast majority of our customers do not come close to using 1TB of data in a month, we are pausing our data plans for 60 days giving all customers Unlimited data for no additional charge. No Disconnects or Late Fees: We will not disconnect a customer’s internet service or assess late fees if they contact us and let us know that they can’t pay their bills during this period. Our care teams will be available to offer flexible payment options and can help find other solutions. Internet Essentials Free to New Customers: It’s even easier for low-income families who live in a Comcast service area to sign-up for Internet Essentials, the nation’s largest and most comprehensive broadband adoption program. New customers will receive 60 days of complimentary Internet Essentials service, which is normally available to all qualified low-income households for $9.95/month. Additionally, for all new and existing Internet Essentials customers, the speed of the program’s Internet service was increased to 25 Mbps downstream and 3 Mbps upstream. That increase will go into effect for no additional fee and it will become the new base speed for the program going forward. If you live in a Cox territory:Pledging to support the FCC’s Keep America Connected initiatives by: Not terminating service to any residential or small business customer because of an inability to pay their bills due to disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Waiving any late fees that residential or small business customers incur because of their economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic. Opening Cox Wifi outdoor hotspots to help keep the public connected in this time of need. Offering the first month free to new customers of Connect2Compete, Cox’s low-cost internet ($9.95) product for families with school-aged children who are enrolled in low-income assistance programs ensuring digital equity for students without internet at home. Schools are being asked to contact connectnow@cox.com with a list of eligible low-income students that currently do not have an internet connection. Through May 15th, offering a $19.99 offer for new Starter internet customers with a temporary boost up to 50 Mbps download speeds, no annual contract or qualifications to help low income and those impacted from Coronavirus challenges, like seniors and college students. Through May 15th, eliminating data usage overages beginning today to meet the higher bandwidth demands. Customers with a 500 GB or Unlimited data usage add-on plan will receive credits. Providing temporary increases for residential customers in the company’s Starter, StraightUp Internet and Connect2Compete packages to speeds of 50 Mbps. Extending our Cox Complete Care remote desktop support at no charge to residential customers in those tiers to provide remote helpdesk and assistance for loading new applications they may need to use during this time like online classroom support applications and web conferencing services. Fast-tracking the qualification process for Connect2Compete and partnering with PCs for People where families can purchase discounted refurbished computers. More information can be found here: https://cox.pcsrefurbished.com/. If you live in a Charter territory: Charter will offer free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students who do not already have a Spectrum broadband subscription at any service level up to 100 Mbps. To enroll call 1-844-488-8395. Installation fees will be waived for new student households. Charter will partner with school districts to ensure local communities are aware of these tools to help students learn remotely. For eligible low-income households without school-aged children, Charter continues to offer Spectrum Internet Assist, a low-cost broadband program delivering speeds of 30 Mbps Charter will open its Wi-Fi hotspots across our footprint for public use Spectrum does not have data caps or hidden fees. If you live in Verizon territory: Verizon’s fiber optic and wireless networks have been able to meet the shifting demands of customers and continue to perform well. Due to economic circumstances related to the coronavirus and to keep customers connected during this economic and global crisis; Verizon waives late fees for residential and small business customers impacted by COVID-19, offers free international calling to CDC level 3 countries. Investing in our economy by increasing our capital guidance range from $17 - $18 billion to $17.5 - $18.5 billion in 2020. Expanding work-from-home policy to include reduction of retail locations and hours across the country; fewer employees working at stores; limiting the number of customers in our stores at one time. Created a coronavirus hub page, https://news.yahoo.com/coronavirus/, across the Yahoo ecosystem that aggregates trusted and reliable news and content about the pandemic in the U.S. and across the globe. Partnering with those on the front lines of the Covid-19 emergency response, first responders, federal agencies, state and local governments, and public health agencies, to deliver on critical missions during crisis. *UPDATE THURSDAY, 3/19/20 5:30 P.M.* Motor Vehicle Inspections: Governor Northam has directed the Virginia Department of State Police to suspend the enforcement of Motor Vehicle Safety Inspections for 60 days. Increased Access to Health Care: The Department of Medicaid Assistance Services is increasing access to health care for Medicaid members and thousands of low-income residents by doing the following: Eliminating all co-payments for services covered by Medicaid and Family Access to Medical Insurance Security (FAMIS), including COVID-19-related treatment as well as other medical care. Ensuring current Medicaid members do not inadvertently lose coverage due to lapses in paperwork or a change in circumstances. Permitting Medicaid members to obtain a 90-day supply of many routine prescriptions, an increase from the 30-day supply under previous rules. Waiving pre-approval requirements for many critical medical services, and enacting automatic extensions for approvals that are already in place. Expanding access to telehealth services, including allowing Medicaid reimbursement for providers who use telehealth with patients in the home. Support for Impacted Businesses and Individual Taxpayers: Following a request submitted by Governor Northam on March 18, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) today approved an Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration for Virginia. Small businesses and nonprofit organizations throughout the Commonwealth affected by the COVID-19 public health crisis can now apply for low-interest federal disaster loans of up to $2 million from the SBA to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other expenses. To submit a loan application through the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, please click here: Apply for Small Business Economic Disaster LoanBusinesses impacted by COVID-19 can also request to defer the payment of state sales tax due tomorrow, March 20, 2020, for 30 days. When granted, businesses will be able to file no later than April 20, 2020 with a waiver of any penalties.The Governor has requested that the Department of Taxation to extend the due date of payment of Virginia individuals and corporate income taxes. While filing deadlines remain the same, the due date for individual and corporate income tax will now be June 1, 2020. Please note that interest will still accrue, so taxpayers who are able to pay by the original deadlines should do so. Guidance for Child Care Providers: Virginia’s Child Care Subsidy program is currently caring for 25,000 children. Governor Northam directed the Dept. Of Social Services to increase support and flexibility for enrolled families and providers. These modifications include: Expanding eligibility for school-aged children currently designated for part-day care to full-day care. Increasing the number of paid absences from 36 to 76 days for both level 1 and level 2 providers. Automatically extending eligibility for families due for eligibility redetermination in the near future by 2 months and temporarily suspending the requirement for face-to-face interviews. As announced yesterday, the Northam administration has released guidance for child care providers to slow the spread of COVID-19, while ensuring continued support for essential personnel. These guidelines include: Childcare providers should limit capacity to 10 total individuals per room and prioritize care for children of essential personnel. Children should eat meals in their own classrooms and increase distance as much as possible, such as allowing only one classroom at a time to go outside and staggering exits and entrances to reduce contact. Staff and children should focus on basic health precautions, including regular hand washing and cleaning frequently touched objects. Justice-Involved Population: Local, regional, and state public safety agencies are working in close coordination to ensure the safety of employees and residents in correctional facilities. The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has suspended all in-person visitation to state correctional facilities and is complying with guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control related to COVID-19. VADOC has also suspended all transfers from local and regional jails for the next 30 days to limit potential exposure to the virus. Governor Northam is encouraging local criminal justice officials, including Commonwealth’s attorneys, defense attorneys, sheriffs, and other jail officials, to explore proactive measures to combat the spread of COVID-19 while ensuring public safety. These recommendations include: Allowing sentence modifications that can reduce populations within the jails, as outlined in Va. Code § 19.2-303. Diverting offenders from being admitted into jail prior to trial, including the use of summonses by law enforcement in lieu of arrest pursuant to Va. Code § 19.2-74, and use of local pretrial programs as available and with consideration to local capacity. Considering ways to reduce low-risk offenders that are being held without bail in jails. Utilizing alternative solutions to incarceration such as home electronic monitoring, pursuant to Va. Code § 53.1-131.2. *UPDATE THURSDAY, 3/19/20 1:30 P.M.* The Virginia Department of Health website continues to update the status of cases in Virginia. As of noon today, 94 positive cases have been reported here in Virginia. Virginia Case Tracker Worldwide Case Tracker Update for pet owners from the Humane Society:There is no evidence that cats, dogs, or other companion animals can be infected with COVID-19. We anticipate that pet owners may need to surrender or seek long-term foster care for their pets due to economic reasons. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has provided a helpful FAQ for pet owners: CDC FAQ RE: PetsThe Humane Society of the United States also has information to help animal shelters and rescues prepare for the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on their operations: Information About Animal Shelters From Fairfax County: The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is still open and facilitating pet adoptions. They have made a few changes to their services however. For example, they are not taking donations and request dog licenses be purchased online.Information from Utilities: Verizon, Comcast, and Cox, have pledged to keep customers connected for the next 60 days and not terminate services to any residential customer or small business that are unable to pay their bills. Cox is also offering a low-income internet tier with no annual contract and relaxing data usage overage charges for all tiers. Dominion Energy suspended disconnections. Washington Gas will be waiving late fees and suspending disconnections. NOVEC is suspending all electric service disconnections and associated penalty fees for 60 days. DMV Information: All DMV offices and mobile sites are closed. Online services will remain available. For those who cannot renew online, or whose license or registration expires before May 15, the DMV will grant a 60-day extension. Elective Surgery Guidance: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued guidance on elective surgeries. You can find that information here: Elective Surgery Guidance The CMS guidance is consistent with the position that all Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association (VHHA) members have adopted. A copy of that guidance can be found here: Information from Virginia Hospitals Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Meeting: The Board will be meeting next week with an altered agenda and in a different meeting space to accommodate social distancing guidelines. The meeting will begin at 3:30 pm on March 24 in Conference Room 11 of the Fairfax County Government Center. All public hearings will be postponed except for those that require immediate attention. Those two are: Public Hearing to Consider an Ordinance to Amend and Readopt Fairfax County Code Section 7-2-13 and Relocate the Polling Places for the Lorton Precinct in the Mount Vernon District and the Nottoway Precinct in the Providence District Public Hearing on the Draft Consolidated Plan One-Year Action Plan for FY 2021 Should you wish to testify on those two items, your options are as follow: Submit written testimony via email, fax, or mail Provide in-person testimony in Conference Room 6 in an appropriate, socially-distanced environment, which will be streamed to Conference Room 11 Submit a maximum 3-minute video testimony via email All written and video testimony should be sent to: clerktotheBOS@fairfaxcounty.gov *UPDATE THURSDAY, 3/19/20 8:30 A.M.* All of our local school systems are distributing meals to children during the school shutdown. There are over a dozen sites in the 36th District. Here are how you find the locations in Fairfax, Prince William and Stafford County: Fairfax County Public Schools Meal Sites FCPS Bus Route Meal Service Prince William County Public Schools Meal Sites Stafford County Public Schools Meal Sites *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 3/18/20 4:00 P.M.* Cases in Virginia: The Virginia Department of Health website continues to update the status of cases in Virginia. As of noon today, 77 positive cases have been reported here in Virginia. This count is updated every day at the bottom of this web page: Updated cases in Virginia New Guidance for Day Care Centers: The Northam Administration issued new guidance directing day care centers to limit their classrooms to 10 people, including teachers. Additionally, day care centers should practice staggered recess and only feed kids in their individual classrooms. Small Business Administration Loan Program: Currently businesses in Fairfax, Arlington, and Alexandria are eligible. The application can be found here: SBA.gov/disaster Supporting our Workforce: "Frequently asked Questions for Workers Regarding COVID-19" document can be found here: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/media/governorvirginiagov/governor-of-virginia/pdf/Frequently-Asked-Questions-from-Workers-Regarding-COVID-19.pdf Donate Blood to the Red Cross: Many blood drives have been canceled over the last couple of weeks and there are severe shortages in blood supply. If you're interested and able, the Red Cross has a number of sites across Virginia that are open and safe to visit. You can find a donation site and make an appointment here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-driveExpansion of Telehealth for Medicare Beneficiaries: The Trump Administration announced that telehealth benefits for Medicare beneficiaries are being expanded during the COVID-19 outbreak. This will allow, beginning March 6, Medicare to temporarily pay clinicians to provide telehealth services for beneficiaries residing across the country. For more information, click here: https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/president-trump-expands-telehealth-benefits-medicare-beneficiaries-during-covid-19-outbreakUse of FaceTime and Skype for Telehealth: The Office for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that it will exercise its enforcement discretion and will waive potential penalties for HIPAA violations against health care providers that serve patients through everyday communications technologies during the COVID-19 nationwide public health emergency. This will include platforms like FaceTime and Skype. In support of this action, OCR will be providing further guidance explaining how covered health care providers can use remote video communication products and offer telehealth to patients responsibly. For more information, click here: https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2020/03/17/ocr-announces-notification-of-enforcement-discretion-for-telehealth-remote-communications-during-the-covid-19.html *UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 3/18/20 10:00 A.M.* Fairfax county compiled these useful links: Contact Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) for Basic Needs Assistance Donating to and Supporting Local Community-Based Organizations Fairfax County Declares Local State of Emergency for Coronavirus (COVID-19) Most Court Cases Canceled Following State Supreme Court Order COVID-19 and Child Care Programs: What You Need to Know Health Department Offers Guidance on Mass Gatherings Watch Out for Coronavirus Scams Drive through testing site established in Arlington: Virginia Hospital Center (VHC), a community-based hospital providing medical services to the Washington, DC metropolitan area for 75 years, has partnered with the Arlington County Public Health Department, the Arlington County Police Department, the Arlington County Fire Department, the Arlington County Sheriff’s Office and Department of Environmental Services to open a temporary drive-through COVID-19 sample collection site at 1429 N. Quincy Street. Samples will be collected from Arlington residents, Arlington County Government employees and Arlington Public Schools employees, and patients of VHC Medical Staff. This site is for sample collection from symptomatic patients (fevers, chills, cough, or shortness of breath) who have received a written order for COVID-19 testing from a licensed healthcare provider. This is not meant for asymptomatic patients, even those who have had a close contact with a known COVID patient. Physicians with symptomatic patients can send orders to the Virginia Hospital Center outpatient lab electronically in EPIC or via fax to 703.558.2448. Once they have received a physician’s order, patients should call the VHC COVID-19 Scheduling Line at 703.558.5766 between the hours of 8:30 am and 3:00 pm. Patients must schedule an appointment before visiting the collection site. Individuals arriving at the drive-through site will be asked to remain in their cars. The sample collection center will officially open Wednesday, March 18 at 9:00 am and will remain open on weekdays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Individuals who visit the collection site are encouraged to follow the instructions of their health care provider and self-quarantine while they await their results. Test results will be available to the patient within five to seven business days. Traffic Advisory Expect additional traffic on N. Quincy between Washington Boulevard and N. 15th Street Expect delays if traveling in the area and/or seek alternate routes if not visiting the collection site Posted signboards in the area will direct those driving to the collection site *UPDATE TUESDAY, 3/17/20 6:00 P.M.* Further Reducing Public GatheringsGovernor Northam told Virginians to avoid non-essential gatherings of more than 10 people, per federal guidelines. This does not include normal operations at essential services such as manufacturers, distribution centers, airports, bus and train stations, medical facilities, grocery stores, or pharmacies.Protecting High-Risk VirginiansThose with chronic health conditions or aged 65 or older should self-quarantine. Public health experts advise that individuals with underlying medical conditions and those aged 65 or older are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Governor Northam encouraged neighbors and friends to stay in touch and regularly check in with high-risk individuals.Increasing Social DistancingAll restaurants, fitness centers, and theaters are mandated to significantly reduce their capacity to 10 patrons, or close. Restaurants are encouraged to continue carry-out and takeaway options.Support for Affected WorkersGovernor Northam announced the following actions to protect working Virginians impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak: No waiting for unemployment benefits. Governor Northam has directed the Commissioner of the Virginia Employment Commission to waive the one-week waiting period to ensure workers can receive benefits as soon as possible. Unemployment Insurance benefits claims can be filed on the internet at www.vec.virginia.gov or by calling the Customer Contact Centers at 1-866-832-2363 Enhanced eligibility for unemployment. Workers may be eligible to receive unemployment benefits if an employer needs to temporarily slow or cease operations due to COVID-19. If a worker has been issued a notice to self-quarantine by a medical or public health official and is not receiving paid sick or medical leave from their employer, they may be eligible to receive unemployment benefits. In addition, a worker may be eligible for unemployment benefits if they must stay home to care for an ill family member and are not receiving paid family medical leave from their employer. Fewer restrictions. For individuals receiving unemployment insurance, Governor Northam is directing the Virginia Employment Commission to give affected workers special consideration on deadlines, mandatory re-employment appointments, and work search requirements. The Office of the Governor is providing a Frequently Asked Questions guide for workers that have been temporarily laid off or discharged during this public health crisis. Support for Impacted Employers Regional workforce teams will be activated to support employers that slow or cease operations. Employers who do slow or cease operations will not be financially penalized for an increase in workers requesting unemployment benefits. The Governor is authorizing rapid response funding, through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, for employers eligible to remain open during this emergency. Funds may be used to clean facilities and support emergency needs. Governor Northam is directing all employers to follow U.S. Department of Labor guidance on workplace safety. Department of Motor Vehicle Office Closures Virginia’s 75 DMV offices, as well as mobile units, will close to the public. Online services will remain available, and anyone needing to renew a license or vehicle registration is encouraged to do so online. For those who cannot renew online, or whose license or registration expires before May 15, DMV will grant a 60-day extension. CourtsGovernor Northam requested and the Supreme Court of Virginia granted a judicial emergency in response to COVID-19. From Monday, March 16 through Monday, April 6, non-essential, non-emergency court proceedings in all district and circuit courts are suspended absent a specific exemption. This includes a prohibition on new eviction cases for tenants who are unable to pay rent as a result of COVID-19. All non-exempted court deadlines are tolled and extended for a period of 21 days.UtilitiesThe State Corporation Commission (SCC) issued an order directing utilities it regulates, such as electric, natural gas, and water companies in Virginia, to suspend service disconnections for 60 days to provide immediate relief for any customer, residential and business, who may be financially impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak.For a comprehensive list of actions Governor Northam has announced to combat COVID-19 in Virginia, visit virginia.gov/coronavirus.Update from US Small Business Administration Alexandria City, Arlington County, and Fairfax County are eligible to receive disaster assistance.The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering designated states and territories low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Upon a request received from a state’s or territory’s Governor, SBA will issue under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act that was recently signed by the President, an Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration. Any such Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance declaration issued by the SBA makes loans available to small businesses and private, non-profit organizations in designated areas of a state or territory to help alleviate economic injury caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19). SBA’s Office of Disaster Assistance will coordinate with the state’s or territory’s Governor to submit the request for Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance. Once a declaration is made for designated areas within a state, the information on the application process for Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance will be made available to all affected communities as well as updated on our website: SBA.gov/disaster. SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance and can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact. The interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses. The interest rate for non-profits is 2.75%. SBA offers loans with long-term repayments in order to keep payments affordable, up to a maximum of 30 years. Terms are determined on a case-by-case basis, based upon each borrower’s ability to repay. SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans are just one piece of the expanded focus of the federal government’s coordinated response, and the SBA is strongly committed to providing the most effective and customer-focused response possible. For additional information, please contact the SBA disaster assistance customer service center. Call 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 1-800-877-8339) or e-mail disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Metro Service Update Effective tomorrow (Wednesday, March 18)—and continuing until further notice—Metro service will operate as follows: Metrorail: Rail system hours and service levels are further reduced to support ESSENTIAL TRAVEL ONLY. DO NOT TRAVEL UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY and follow guidance from your state and local authorities. New hours: Weekdays 5AM-11PM, Sat/Sun 8AM-11PM Trains will run every 15 minutes on each line at all times, including the Red Line. All trains will operate with 8 cars, the maximum possible length, to help maintain social distancing between customers. Metro’s Rail Operations Control Centers (two) will actively monitor trains and station platforms for any possible crowding, something that has not been an issue at any point during the pandemic emergency response. Metro is reducing/cancelling track work, except emergency maintenance and inspections, to avoid unexpected delays and maintain 15-minute intervals between trains. Metrobus: Bus hours and service levels are further reduced to support ESSENTIAL TRAVEL ONLY. DO NOT TRAVEL UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY and follow guidance from your state and local authorities. Buses will operate on a Sunday schedule, with supplemental service on selected routes to prevent crowding and ensure areas are not cut off. Visit wmata.com for information about “supplemental” routes that will operate, in addition to Sunday routes. IMPORTANT: Bus operators are granted the authority to bypass bus stops to maintain safe social distancing aboard the vehicle. These actions reduce the number of Metro employees and buses required to maintain service by more than 60 percent. MetroAccess: All subscription trips are cancelled until further notice. Customers with a critical need to travel should make a separate reservation calling 301-562-5360 (TTY 301-588-7535) or via the online reservation system. Customers are strongly encouraged to travel ONLY IF ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. FCPS Meal Distribution Fairfax County Public Schools is expanding the number of grab and go meal sites beginning Wednesday, March 18. A total of 39 sites will serve food to FCPS students.In addition to the sites currently providing grab and go meals, these school locations will also be serving food starting tomorrow. Breakfast will be served from 8:00 to 10:30 a.m. and lunch will be served from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the following locations: Bucknell Elementary School, 6925 University Dr., Alexandria FCPS Energy Zone Office, 6840 Industrial Dr., Springfield Falls Church High School, 7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church Lorton Station Elementary School, 9298 Lewis Chapel Road, Lorton Twain Middle School, 4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria In addition to school sites, five additional sites located in the community will serve as pop-up locations. The sites will serve both breakfast and lunch during the designated times beginning Wednesday, March 18:Audubon Park, 7955 Audubon Ave., Alexandria, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Bailey’s Community Center, 5920 Summers Lane, Falls Church, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Gum Springs Community Center, 8100 Fordson Road, Alexandria, from 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. James Lee Community Center, 2855 Annandale Road, Falls Church, from 12 noon to 12:30 p.m. Willston Multicultural Center, 6131 Willston Dr, Falls Church, from 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For a complete list of distribution sites go here: https://www.fcps.edu/news/coronavirus-update-food-resources Original Post Virginia Dept. of Health: http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/surveillance-and-investigation/novel-coronavirus/CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/ Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are unavailable. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands with soap and warm water. The Virginia Dept. of Health also set up a toll free number to call with generic questions about the virus: 1-877-ASK-VDH3 Governor Northam declared a state of emergency. Other state agencies are responding as outlined below:Virginia Dept. of Health: VDH has provided guidance to nursing homes and senior care facilities on additional visitor screening. Virginia has expanded criteria for diagnostic testing to ensure that anyone who has symptoms and is in a nursing home is a top priority. Virginia is talking with employers across the Commonwealth about telework and paid time off, including for hourly workers. Dept. of General Services (Testing update): On March 2, the Department of General Services (DGS) announced that its Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS), Virginia’s public health and environmental laboratory, began testing for COVID-19 instead of sending samples to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). DCLS will test samples from individuals identified by the VDH as a Person Under Investigation (PUI), meaning they meet both current clinical and epidemiologic criteria for COVID-19. Virginia is working with insurers to waive costs associated with COVID-19 diagnostic testing. Human Resources (Information for state employees): The Department of Human Resource Management (DHRM) has directed all state agencies to update their emergency operations and paid leave policies, and Virginia will begin implementing a phased transition to teleworking for state employees. Virginia is setting an example by activating paid Public Health Emergency Leave for state employees who have recently traveled to high-risk areas. All official travel outside of Virginia by state employees has been halted, with increased flexibility for inter-state commuters and essential personnel. State employees have been advised to limit in-person meetings and non-essential work-related gatherings. Specific guidance will be released to agency heads and state employees, and Virginia will revisit these guidelines after 30 days. Social Services: The Department of Medical Assistance Services and the Department of Social Services are preparing options to ensure the most vulnerable populations have continued access to critical services, including the potential for in-home care and food support. The Department of Social Services is working with local partners, such as food pantries, to ensure no one goes hungry in the event of extended school closures. Transportation: Washington Dulles International Airport is one of 11 airports designated by the federal government to receive flights from China. The CDC is conducting screenings of passengers at Dulles who have been in China or Iran during the past 14 days. Virginia is also working with transportation partners to help reduce the potential spread of disease. The Department of Rail and Public Transportation is coordinating with Metro, Amtrak, Virginia Rail Express, and transit agencies across Virginia to adjust cleaning schedules according to CDC protocol. Corrections: The Department of Corrections (DOC) has canceled offender visitation at all facilities until further notice. Off-site video visitation is still available. A dedicated COVID-19 public information line with an updated, recorded message is operational. The phone number is (804) 887-8484. DOC has implemented a screening protocol for offenders coming into state facilities from local jails. Virginia provided detailed guidance to correctional facilities and other work locations regarding approved hand washing, sanitizing, and disinfectant products, and instructions for the proper use of those products to provide protection from COVID-19. Supreme Court: The Supreme Court of Virginia has declared a judicial emergency and suspended all non-essential court proceedings until April 6, 2020. Update from Prince William County County Executive Chris Martino signed a Declaration of a Local State of Emergency for Prince William County in response to the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control to limit crowds of people to 50 or less to help slow the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). The declaration is in effect as of noon today, March 16, and will allow the county to mobilize and prioritize resources, handle procurement issues, as well as assign and coordinate response activities to help promote and enforce social distancing.“We know that it’s critical that we practice social distancing as much as possible in order to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and help our health system. This declaration will help us mobilize resources to put practices and policies in place to keep our employees and residents healthy,” said Martino. “It is important to note that this declaration is not because we’ve seen a dramatic increase in the number of confirmed cases in Prince William County. As of right now, the county remains at three confirmed cases and we have no reason to suspect community spread.”In order to enforce social distancing as much as possible in the community, Prince William County has taken the following actions in the last 24 hours: Closed all libraries. Closing the Adult Day Healthcare program as of Tuesday, March 17. Cancelled the Board of County Supervisors meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 17. Cancelled the Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Wednesday, March 18. This is in addition to the action taken last week that closed parks facilities, senior centers and cancelling all outside meetings to be held in county facilities. A full list of the county’s operational status can be found at pwcgov.org/emergency. Residents are strongly encouraged to practice social distancing in their day to day activities, as well. The county also encourages residents to do business with the county online as much as possible. If they must come to a county facility, residents should call the office they wish to visit before making the trip.For more information about COVID-19 and Prince William County, please visit pwcgov.org/emergency. Update from Fairfax County Public Schools All FCPS school buildings are closed until further notice. Food distribution at FCPS sites will continue as scheduled. More details about the food program are below. With the school buildings closed, the laptop distribution scheduled for tomorrow is postponed. All FCPS administrative offices are closed until further notice. Only essential personnel as defined by FCPS program managers and supervisors will be asked to report to work until further notice. All other employees will work remotely. It is expected that all FCPS personnel reporting to work will practice social distancing to the greatest extent possible. Beginning March 16, we are expanding the grab and go food distribution sites to a total of 18 locations. The food distribution is set up outside the schools. Breakfast will be served from 8-10:30 a.m. and lunch from 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the following locations: Annandale Terrace ES, 7604 Herald St., Annandale Bailey's Primary ES, 6111 Knollwood Dr., Falls Church Braddock ES, 7825 Heritage Dr., Annandale Brookfield ES, 4200 Lees Corner Rd, Chantilly Burke School, 9645 Burke Lake Rd., Burke Centre Ridge ES, 14400 New Braddock Rd., Centreville Crestwood ES, 6010 Hanover Ave., Springfield Cunningham Park ES, 1001 Park St., Vienna Dogwood ES, 12300 Glade Dr., Reston Garfield ES, 7101 Old Keene Mill Rd., Springfield Graham Road Community Center, 3036 Graham Rd., Falls Church Fort Belvoir Upper ES, 5980 Meeres Rd., Fort Belvoir Hutchison ES, 13209 Parcher Ave., Herndon Hybla Valley ES, 3415 Lockheed Blvd., Alexandria London Towne ES, 6100 Stone Rd., Centreville Mount Vernon Woods ES, 4015 Fielding St., Alexandria Providence ES, 3616 Jermantown Rd., Fairfax Weyanoke ES, 6520 Braddock Rd., Alexandria Soth County HS, 8700 Laurel Crest Dr., Lorton FCPS students are welcome to come to any of the sites to pick up a meal during these time periods. All students enrolled in FCPS schools and other County children receive one meal at no-cost; and, may have additional meals at no-cost upon request. Adults may purchase breakfast and lunch meals at a cost of $2.00. Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services provides access and referrals to both government and community based resources for Fairfax County residents in need. If you are facing difficulties - including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, healthcare and more other needs, please call 703-222-0880 for assistance.Updates can be found on our website: https://www.fcps.edu/news/coronavirus-update.Information from Prince William County Public Schools All School-Age Child Care (SACC) is closed until further notice. No PWCS employees should report until further notice (with the exception of designated food service employees, custodians, and designated staff to support critical business who should report as directed). PWCS will provide further details for staff reporting later this week. All activities and community use are canceled until further notice. Per the Governor’s order related to the state of emergency, the state will waive the school hours missed during the Governor’s order covering the closure until at least March 27. Beyond this time, PWCS will continue to have 13.5 days of emergency hours “snow-days” to utilize if necessary to cover school closing. Teachers do not need to be assigning work to students this week. Due to the waivers provided by the Governor’s office, at this time, schools do not need to consider strategies for continuity of learning to count as an official instructional day. PWCS will provide updates later this week regarding additional resources for families to support student independent learning at home and expectations for staff to support this learning beyond this week. The Virginia Department of Education is evaluating options to provide flexibility in meeting testing requirements for the Standards of Learning tests, the Virginia Alternate Assessment Program and the ACCESS for ELs test administered to English Learners. More information and guidance will be provided as it becomes available. This is an evolving situation that is changing rapidly. PWCS will continue to make every effort to provide updates on a daily basis as needed, to answer the many important questions we are receiving from staff and families. Packaged breakfasts and lunches will be provided to-go at select locations throughout the county, to anyone under the age of 18. More information below: Service Times: Monday- Friday* 9-10 a.m. Service Style: To-go Meals served at the front door of each location Meal Types: Packaged breakfast and lunch will be served at the same time *Range of dates may change based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/Virginia Department of Health guidance Service Sites: Elementary School Sites Dale City Fitzgerald John D. Jenkins Mullen Tyler Middle School Sites Beville Graham Park Hampton Fred Lynn Lake Ridge Marsteller Parkside Potomac Rippon Stonewall Woodbridge High School Sites Forest Park Information From Stafford Public Schools Stafford County Public Schools will be closed from March 16 through March 27. The school system is aiming to begin delivering free meals on March 23. Update from METROTo help protect employees and customers, and recognizing that many of Metro’s frontline employees are faced with tough choices as they balance work with their family priorities, including caring for children who are home from area schools, Metro is reducing service beginning Monday, as follows:METRORAILMonday-Friday: Trains will operate every 12 minutes on each line throughout the dayThe rail system will maintain normal hours, opening at 5 a.m. and closing at 11:30 p.m.Saturday: Trains will operate every 12 minutes on each line, with service from 7 a.m. until 1 a.m. (normal Saturday service).Sunday: Trains will operate every 15 minutes on each line, with service from 8 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. (normal Sunday service).METROBUSOn weekdays, bus service will operate on a Saturday schedule. Weekend bus schedules are unchanged.IF YOU ARE NOT FEELING WELL, DO NOT TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION. Call your healthcare provider before you leave your home and follow their guidance.Update from VREThe Virginia Railway Express (VRE) today announced changes to its train schedules. As an increasing number of area businesses and government agencies encourage or mandate telework to help contain the spread of COVID-19, VRE ridership has dropped to a level warranting a reduction in service.VRE will run a "S" schedule on each of its two lines, Fredericksburg and Manassas, beginning Tuesday, March 17. The number of trains in service will go from 16 to eight - four inbound each morning and four outbound each afternoon. The change to VRE's train schedules will remain in effect indefinitely. The rail service's management will continue to monitor the situation and adjust schedules as circumstances dictate. Updated train schedules are available on VRE's website at www.vre.org/service/schedule.Update from Fairfax Connector Bus There have been no changes to Fairfax Connector services, however cleaning protocols have been reviewed and updated. Increased vehicle cleaning cycles are occuring with a special focus on bus interiors and critical touchpoints. These cleanings incorporate disinfection procedures indicated to be effective against COVID-19. Update from Prince William County Courts Providing liberal granting of continuances through the end of April. Such cases may be continued by submitting a fully endorsed Agreed Order to the appropriate court or by notifying the appropriate court that an attorney of record, one of the parties, or an important witness is experiencing flu-like symptoms or is under either self-quarantine or mandatory quarantine, or is caring for a family member who is experiencing flu-like symptoms, under self-quarantine or mandatory quarantine. The contacts are: Circuit Court: circuitcourts@pwc.gov Gen. District Court: JPleitez@vacourts.gov Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court: dfuller@vacourts.gov Criminal cases in Circuit Court will continue to be scheduled and heard in accordance with normal procedure. General District Court will suspend and continue all cases through March 20, including criminal, traffic, and civil. There will be a further announcement at that time. J&DR Courts will continue hearing detention hearings and bond motions involving juveniles who are detained or held in shelter care. Delinquency reviews will be continued to the end of April. Protective orders will be scheduled and heard as required by statute. No new civil cases will be scheduled until the end of April. Postponing civil term day from April 7 to May 5. The Chief Judge is allowing call in to get trial date and encouraging e-filing. Continuance requests are allowed by email. Those on jury duty can email to request rescheduling and for information. Volunteer activities are being cancelled. Judges are working with the Adult Detention Center for video arraignment. Update from Fairfax County CourtsThe Chief Judge of Fairfax Circuit Court has announced the following modifications in the Fairfax Circuit Court’s Docket, as a temporary precaution, and in light of current events. The Circuit Court is taking these measures in order to limit the number of people who must come to the Courthouse, during this challenging time. Effective Friday, March 13, 2020, all civil jury Trials will be suspended, for at least 30 days. If you currently have a Civil Jury Trial scheduled to begin between March 13, 2020 and April 17, 2020, please contact Calendar Control at 703-246-2221, to reschedule. The Circuit Court will continue to conduct civil bench trials, during this period. If the parties agree, cases currently scheduled for a civil jury trial may be converted to a bench trial at Calendar Control, and thus still be heard, during this period. All other dockets—including Friday Civil Motions and Criminal Motions Dockets—will continue, as scheduled. However, liberal continuances will be granted on a case-by-case basis. If counsel, a party, or a witness is ill, parties should contact Calendar Control, to reschedule their matter. If you have been summoned for jury service, and are ill, please contact the Jury Management Office, at 703-246-2292, to reschedule your service. As a precaution, the Court recommends that you not come to the Courthouse, unless circumstances require you to do so.In response to Governor Northam's prohibition of gatherings in excess of 100 individuals, the Fairfax County General District Court - all divisions, including the Town of Vienna - will not be holding court tomorrow, Monday, March 16, 2020 EXCEPT FOR THE FOLLOWING: 8:30 AM Bond Motions Court will still be held as scheduled. 8:30 AM Video Advisement Court will still be held as scheduled. 1:30 PM Protective Order Court will still be held as scheduled. The Clerk's Office will be open and employees should report to work on time. This message will be updated on Monday with regard to the continuance of cases moving forward, to include those cases that were scheduled for court on 3/16/2020.Clerk's Office staff will be available to answer questions and accept filings. Please email the Clerk's Office at GDCMail@fairfaxcounty.gov or call one of the numbers below: Criminal Division: 703-246-3305 Traffic Division: 703-246-2815 Civil Division: 703-246-3012 Fairfax County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court (the “Court”) consulted with local health officials to discuss the risks of court operations and ways to slow the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Those professionals advised that normal court operations pose little risk because there is not yet evidence of “community spread” of the virus in this area.Notwithstanding this advice, and based upon recent developments, the Court has enacted aggressive policies and procedures to slow the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and to reassure the community.These policies and procedures are effective as of 11:59 p.m. on March 16, 2020 and continue through at least May 10, 2020. Among other things, they provide that: The Court’s non-case related events (including all operator license ceremonies, school court tours, and intern and volunteer programs) are suspended. All traffic hearings, and criminal trials and sentencing hearings for defendants not held in custody, are suspended. Criminal motions are limited to bond (including motions to modify or revoke bond), continuance, detention review, discovery (in cases in which the defendant is held in custody), and emergency motions only. Except for show cause rule hearings for respondents held in custody (which shall be continued), all custody, visitation, and support status hearings and trials are suspended. Emergency motions, for cases in which relief is necessary to prevent imminent and substantial physical or psychological harm to a child, shall be heard as usual. Wednesday Motions dockets are suspended. Except as otherwise stated in the policies and procedures, the Clerk of Court shall continue all other pending motions to the scheduled trial date. All attorneys appearing before the Court should read the most recent version of these policies and procedures, in full, Policies to Slow the Spread of Coronavirus Disease 03-16-20
Fairfax County BRT/U.S. 1 Widening Update May 19, 2020 Today, Fairfax County's Department of Transportation provided an update on the status of the U.S. 1 Bus Rapid Transit Project and U.S. 1 Widening. Richmond Highway Widening Update They have been developing responses to public comments Incorporated minor design adjustments Meeting with property owners Working on right of way plans Conducting title research Design changes Two way cycle tracks Bridge features modified Change from bridge to a pre-cast arch Section adjustments to accomodate larger trees Plaza designs at intersections Raised driveways along U.S. 1 Reviewing viability of stormwater management facility enhancements Schedule Revisions Project has been delayed one year Design approval in 2019 did not happen FONSI planned in Fall, 2019 - didn't happen ROW acquisition was supposed to start in Winter, 2019 and did not ROW/Utility Relocation seems to be taking longer-6 years instead of 3.5 years Design approval was expected but did not Fairfax County has not approved design Ongoing design features need to be resolved (stuff above) along with construction of BRT project with this Approval was submitted in 11/19 but delayed due to a Title VI complaint that was initiated VDOT did receive conditional design approval except for the Little Hunting Creek Underpass FONSI They revised EIS for two underpasses Submitted the revised Environmental Assessment and request for FONSI to FHWA to review in 11/19 In 11/19 notified of potential Title VI Complaint and FHWA put the review on hold pending the complaint 2/20 VDOT held a public meeting with Harmony Place in Spanish 5/20 FHWA has signalled that VDOT should move forward until receiving official notification of the Title VI complaint (they said move forward as if complaint doesn't exist) It's not going to hold up the project any longer Expecting to submit FONSI in Summer 2020 and approval in Fall 2020 Title VI issues They are prohibited from discussing or sharing complaint in any detail VDOT received the following complaints during the process that may be in the Complaint but they can't discuss: During the public hearing, they received comment that the Little Hunting Creek underpass is a location for illicit activity Gum Spring wants an overpass VDOT isn't listening to Gum Springs BRT Meeting Gum Springs wanted Fordson Road intersection redesigned South County Task Force Meeting people said road was too wide and unsafe to cross Current Anticipated U.S. 1 Right of Way Impacts ROW Impacts as of today are in picture above There are 172 partial acquisitions In other projects they've had acquisitions where a single parcel can take up to 44 months We typically look at 18 months per mile for utility relocation so we're anticipating 24 months for utility relocation now Revised U.S. 1 Widening Schedule New Schedule has been revised based on FONSI ROW will start in last 2021 and possibly go until 2025 Utility relocations will begin in 2023 Construction would go to 2029 VDOT is working on phasing construction to speed up construction with a break near the Bestway If project is broken up into two phases, we could start construction 18 months sooner and open to traffic 12 months sooner and could finish by 2028 By dealing with smaller portions of ROW we can get this done faster We also might be able to speed this up by: Meeting with utility companies sooner Allow construction to start before utility relocation is complete Both runs up the risk of contractor claims and could result in higher bids due to increased risk Project Funding Current Funding Status for U.S. 1 Widening Estimate is unchanged today - $372M We anticipate some changes with new features We have $188M programmed and $183M short Hoping to make that up with a $25M FHWA grant and NVTA funding U.S. 1 BRT Briefing Project Status Rendering of FCDOT Future Stomwater Rention on U.S. 1 March, 2020 U.S. 1 BRT was accepted into the Federal Transit Administration's New Starts program Hoping to fund 40% of the project this way This gives us a two year window to complete NEPA preliminary engineering and management plans FCDOT thinks that can be done faster than 2 years - probably by Fall 2021 The project will be Phased Phase I is Huntington Metro to Gum Springs (end of the VDOT Project) Phase II is Gum Springs to Fort Belvoir Public Outreach has been going on by email blast and online presentations FCDOT anticipates 30% of design plans being done by July 2020 By keeping Fordson Road open, they had to separate the station platforms Stormwater Management Approach As of now we have 63 dry swells/bioretention areas, 11 wet ponds, maybe 3 underground tanks Project Delivery New FCDOT BRT Schedule Legacy schedule was to deliver Phase I BRT by end of 2026 and Phase II by 2028 FCDOT has seen delays: NEPA - Found historic properties Federal shutdown delayed some document reviewed by the FTA Utilities relocations will require additional time Minimization options for Collard Street, Groveton Baptist, Fordson Road, Huntington Bus Loop, landscaping, etc. ROW - partial acquisitions were shifted to the design build contractor Construction sequencing has caused a more realistic schedule New Schedule is set forth to the right Phase I done by early 2030 Phase II done by late 2030 FCDOT needs to talk to VDOT about new possible two-phase schedule for U.S. 1 widening There are scheduling risks Utility relocations Schedules for adjacent projects (including Huntington Metro Redevelopment) Possible hazmat issues Agency coordination - FTA, DHR, etc. for NEPA sign off Accommodation of private development Stations Current Working Design - 10% DoneMaterials, Colors, etc. Still In Discussion Station Architecture Six Designs were shared with the Executive Committee 2/20 and 3/20 They've agreed on Option B with elements from Option C and E Attempt was to incorporate local historical, cultural, institutional and natural resources into the station designs They've been working through concepts Current working design of the stations is in the pictures on the right
Weekly Column: Where Should the NVTA Spend $500 Million of Your Money? May 18, 2020 Where Should the NVTA Spend $500 Million of Your Money? Now is the time to help direct transportation funds to our community. For 27 years, between 1986 and 2013, Virginia did not raise its transportation taxes. While labor, steel, asphalt and concrete got more expensive and cars became more fuel efficient, gas tax revenues declined. During those years, Virginia stopped repaving roads and other maintenance to fund road construction. In 2013, the General Assembly passed new taxes to restore highway maintenance funding and we passed new regional taxes to fund regional transportation construction through the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA). The 36th Senate District has benefitted from these taxes in projects like US 1/Richmond Highway widening (design and land acquisition), U.S. 1/Dumfries widening (design and land acquisition), U.S. 1 bus rapid transit (design), U.S. 1 at Featherstone widening, $80 million in Virginia Rail Express improvements, a new CSX bridge crossing of US. 1 at I-95 and Old Bridge Road/Occoquan Road intersection reconstruction. Every two years, the NVTA determines projects to fund in a six-year plan, projects nominated by local governments and other entities. The NTVA uses objective criteria to rate projects based on congestion relief, economic development, pollution reduction and safety with congestion relief getting the highest weight. This ranking is named after the bill that authorized it – HB599. After projects are scored, the score is divided by the funding request so that we can see which projects give our region the biggest bang for the buck. As you can see in the table below, this means that while some projects scored very well – such as the U.S. 1 widening – after you consider the cost, their relative ranking drops. The NVTA considers the scores and public input to decide how to program $522 million - an amount that could change in light of reduced economic activity from the coronavirus pandemic. This year, they are considering over 46 projects totaling $1.6 billion. This means fewer than one-third of the requests will be funded. There are seven projects at risk in the 36th Senate District: Overall Rank HB599 Rank Description Request 3 9 Connect Annapolis Drive between U.S. 1 and VA-123 in Woodbridge $8.0m 5 6 Widen and realign U.S. 1 through Town of Dumfries to construct new boulevard, construct sidewalks and paths. $78.0M 10 7 Connect Telegraph Road to Minnieville Rd via Summit School Drive to bypass Potomac Mills Mall. $24.0M 20 1 Construct Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) from Huntington Metro Station to Fort Belvoir $71.0M 22 11 Construct new passenger platform for new third rail at Woodbridge VRE Station. $2.2M 23 30 Funds to design for Van Buren Drive between VA-234 and Cardinal Drive. $8.0M 25 3 Widen U.S. 1 to six lanes, new sidewalks, multiuse paths, and reserve space for BRT from Fort Belvoir to Hybla Valley. $183.0M 30 37 Realign Prince William Parkway at Old Bridge Road to create more seamless PWC Parkway. $30.0M If the NVTA funds these projects in the order of their rankings with current funds, the cutoff will occur after Project #23, Van Buren Road Extension, and the U.S. 1 widening will not be funded or Prince William County Parkway realignment. NVTA is currently receiving public comments and needs to hear from you. Your comments are critical. I have created two comment forms for constituents to submit comments that I will forward to the NVTA. You can find them here: Comment on NVTA FY2020-25 Six-Year Plan - https://bit.ly/2020NVTA Some have complained to me about high taxes, tax increases, cutting staff to pay for roads or urged me to find other ways to address our transportation needs. I welcome your suggestions, but please understand that these taxes are authorized, are now the law, and we are currently paying them. If we want these funds spent in our community instead of other parts of Northern Virginia, everyone must speak up now. Not acting is in effect asking that these funds be spent else where. If you want to see improvements in our area, please use these forms and send your comments by the deadline, May 24, 2020. Please email me at scott@scottsurovell.org if you have any questions. I welcome your views.
Comment on Regional Transportation Funding Today May 16, 2020 The Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) has published its rankings for its next Six-Year Plan Update to fund $522 million of projects over the next six years. The NVTA plans its projects in a six-year plan every two years. Local governments and other entities nominate projects for funding. It uses objective criteria to rate projects based on congestion relief, economic development, pollution reduction and safety with congestion relief getting the highest weight. This ranking is named after the bill that authorized it – HB599. After projects are scored, the score is divided by the funding request so that we can see which projects give our region the biggest bang for the buck. As you can see in the table below, this means that while some projects scored very well – such as the U.S. 1 widening – after you consider the cost, their relative ranking dropped substantially. There are $404 million in seven projects at risk in the 36th Senate District at-risk: 36th District Submitted Project ListComment Deadline May 24, 2020 Overall Rank Project Description Request HB599 Rank 3 Annapolis Drive U.S. 1/VA-123 Connection Connect Annapolis Drive between U.S. 1 and VA-123 $8.0m 9 5 Widen U.S. 1 Thru Town of Dumfries Widen and realign U.S. 1 through Town of Dumfries to construct new boulevard, construct sidewalks and paths. $78.0M 6 10 Summit School Rd. Extension & Telegraph Rd. Widening Connect Telegraph Road to Minnieville Rd via Summit School Drive to bypass Potomac Mills Mall. $24.0M 7 20 U.S. 1/Richmond Highway Bus Rapid Transit Construct bus rapid transit from Huntington Metro to Fort Belvoir $71.0M 1 22 VRE Woodbridge Station Improvements Construct new passenger platform for new third rail. $2.2M 11 23 Extend Van Buren Road from VA-234 to Cardinal Drive Planning funds for new road between VA-234 and Cardinal Drive. $8.0M 30 25 U.S. 1/Richmond Highway Widening Hybla Valley to Fort Belvoir Widen U.S. 1 to six lanes, new sidewalks, multiuse paths, and reserve space for BRT from Fort Belvoir to Hybla Valley. $183.0M 3 30 PWC Parkway & Old Bridge Intersection Rebuild Realign intersection to create more seamless PWC Parkway. $30.0M 37 Please provide me your comments using the two forms below. I have include links to information about the projects and the project rankings at the top of the form if you want to investigate further. Fairfax County NVTA Project List Comment FormPrince William County NVTA Project List Comment Form I will be submitting all comments to the NVTA before May 24, 2020.
Weekly Column: Battling the Coronavirus - Efforts Must Be Expanded May 11, 2020 The following is my column that will appear in the Mt. Vernon Gazette, Springfield Connection, The Prince William Times, The Fort Hunt Herald, and Potomac Local in the week of May 11, 2020. Battling the Coronavirus - Efforts Must Be ExpandedIt has been four months since the Centers for Disease Control confirmed the first case of coronavirus disease, called COVID-19, in the United States. As of May 11, over 800 Virginians have died, 3,200 hospitalized and over 25,000 Virginians have tested positive for this virus. Only about 1.7% of Virginians or 147,000 have been tested. Our hospitalization rate has continued to climb with over 1,500 people currently in the hospital. The rate of infection has slowed, but this virus has hit our community very unevenly. While nearly every Virginia locality has seen infections, infections have mostly been concentrated. While Northern Virginia has the highest raw number of infections, outbreaks on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Shenandoah Valley and Northern Neck are proportionally more severe than they are here. Several of our prisons, local jails and juvenile detention facilities have experienced outbreaks and four inmates being held for non-violent offenses have died. Disproportionate Impacts The Hispanic community has been disproportionately, adversely affected. Neighborhood Health operates a clinic on U.S. 1 on Beacon Hill. Although only 50% of their patients are Latino, 90% of their positive tests have been Latinos and 74% of those tested lack health insurance. The Northern Virginia zip codes with the highest concentrations of positive tests also have largest numbers of Latino residents including the U.S. 1 Corridor, Manassas, Herndon, and Bailey’s Crossroads. This week, I will be working with other legislators who represent significant Latino constituents to ask our state and local governments to target more resources on these communities. For example, one recent study showed we could reduce infection rates by 80 percent if everyone simply wore a mask. We can deploy mobile clinics and can also improve communications. Unemployment has also been uneven. Friday’s unemployment data showed that the unemployment rate in the Latino community is 18.9%, 16.7% among African-American workers and 14% for White and Asian workers. However, for people with a high school degree or less, unemployment is between 17-21% while for people with a college degree, it is 8.4%. While over $12 billion of Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loans have been approved for Virginia businesses, the funds for those loans will be exhausted by mid-June and with consumer spending declining, our economy will likely struggle to recover. All pandemic experts say that we cannot have economic stability without controlling the virus and we cannot control the virus without sufficient testing and contact tracing. Daily testing in Virginia is averaging up, but was mostly below what Governor Ralph Northam says we need and Virginia has hired only 325 of 1,275 needed contact tracers. Although I feel it is premature to reopen our economy at this point, the Governor issued an executive order lifting a few restrictions on May 8. Personal care services such as barber and hair styling can proceed with limitations. Restaurants, craft breweries and wineries can allow outdoor seating, and farmer’s markets can reopen with restrictions. Gyms and recreation facilities must remain closed although outdoor activities can proceed. Pools can open but only for lap swimming. Beaches remain closed except for fishing and exercise. Summer camps, schools and colleges must remain closed except for distance learning. I believe hospitalization numbers should be consistently declining plus adequate testing and contact tracing in operation. It appears that the Governor may give regions the authority to keep existing restrictions in place and that is likely to be announced by the time this goes to print so check the news. Information and Tests You can continue to see real time updates and links to the Governor’s newest orders on my blog – The Dixie Pig – at scottsurovell.blogspot.com. You can locate a clinic to be tested for COVID-19 on the Virginia Department of Health COVID-19 website, https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus/. There are seven locations in the 36th Senate District that offer testing. Thank you for your patience as we continue to respond to this evolving threat and its consequences. Please look out for your neighbors and those in our community who need help. Please consider others and wear a mask if you are in public. In the meantime, if you have any feedback or have any questions, please send me an email at scott@scottsurovell.org.
Weekly Column: Serving During the Pandemic April 27, 2020 The following is my column that will appear in the Mt. Vernon Gazette, Springfield Connection, The Prince William Times, The Fort Hunt Herald, and Potomac Local in the week of April 27, 2020. Serving during the Pandemic Last week, the General Assembly returned to Richmond for what was probably one of the most unusual sessions we will ever have. We convened for one day to consider the Governor’s vetoes of and amendments to the bills and budget we passed earlier in the year. The Senate met in the Virginia Science Museum. The House of Delegates met in a tent on the Virginia State Capitol lawn. Men did not wear ties because we were told they are germ magnets. The Senate clerk gave all Senators masks and gloves. I wore a bandana mask and a bolo made with a Virginia quarter that I bought for the occasion. Each Senator sat at tables 10 feet apart in order of seniority which put me in about the middle of the room. Senator George Barker sat in a plexiglass box due to recent heart surgery. The clerk provided box lunches and we were prohibited from touching the drink cooler. We caucused in outdoor tents with chairs scattered six feet apart. The whole day was surreal. Budgeting CautiouslyWe passed dozens of amendments to the budget, basically putting on hold, new spending that we approved earlier this session. We will revisit the budget after revenue projections stabilize and we have a better understanding of new federal funding and any new federal funding that Congress might appropriate. Revenue collections in states like Virginia are reeling from the economy’s crash and unlike the federal government, our state constitution requires a balanced budget. If revenues do not increase and federal funding is not forthcoming, states could be facing massive layoffs. Advocating for Safe Elections One of the major points of contention was the Governor’s proposal to move local elections scheduled in May to November 2020 which I supported. In our area, the towns of Occoquan, Quantico, Haymarket, Vienna and the City of Fairfax have elections in May. May elections are also scheduled for Norfolk, Chesapeake and Newport News. Wisconsin held an election on April 7 and so far, 16 cases of COVID-19 have been linked to that election. The average poll worker is over 70 and vulnerable to COVID-19. When people move around, they can unknowingly spread this disease to others. I did not see the need to conduct elections at the height of a pandemic when they could be moved to November. Three Democrats joined all the Republicans to kill the Governor’s proposal, and two days later, he postponed the elections two weeks later to May 17 using statutory authority. We have three elections before the end of the year: May town elections, June party primaries and the November 3 general election. You can apply to vote by mail in all three today via my website at www.scottsurovell.org/vote. The Governor also proposed amendments to Senator Adam Ebbin’s marijuana decriminalization bill, including an amendment to eliminate the right to a jury trial in Circuit Court on such charges. Virginia has led the world on the right to trial by jury and I did not support this change. Neither did the Senate and the remainder of the bill passed. Governor Northam also amended three four of my bills. He made clear that my bill giving localities some firearm regulatory authority applied to parks that localities manage, not just parks they own. He extended my bill creating new penalties for drivers who injure pedestrians and cyclists to passengers on bicycles including infant trailers. He added clarity to my community solar bill and amended my bill providing driving privileges to undocumented immigrants to provide that credentials would be identical to other limited-duration driving credentials. All of these amendments passed and the bills will become law on July 1, 2020. We also took action to help with the pandemic. First, we gave homeowner and condominium owner associations the ability to meet remotely during the state of emergency and clarified that local governments can as well. We also passed a 60-day emergency moratorium on evictions and foreclosures for anyone affected by the pandemic and gave the Governor authority to provide early release to many inmates who have less than one year to serve on their sentence. I hope you will share your comments with me at scott@scottsurovell.org.
Informacion de COVID-19 En Espanol April 16, 2020 Informacion de Law Preguntas para Los Empleados Las Preguntas Mas Frecuente... by Scott A. Surovell on Scribd
Weekly Column: Good News & Bad News in Governor's Amendments April 14, 2020 The following is my column that will appear in the Mt. Vernon Gazette, Springfield Connection, The Prince William Times, The Fort Hunt Herald, and Potomac Local in the week of April 12, 2020. Good News & Bad News in Governor's Amendments On Sunday, Governor Northam signed the remaining bills that were pending for action, proposed 140 amendments to the state budget, and also 101 amendments to bills. As of today, the plan is for the House of Delegates to meet outdoors and the Senate of Virginia to meet in a tent behind the Virginia Science Museum in Richmond next Wednesday at noon for our “Veto Session.” First, the good news for our area. The language requiring the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transit to study extending the Blue Line to Lorton, Woodbridge and Potomac Mills is still in the budget. In addition, the authority and appropriations to fund the Prince William County Public Defender’s Office is still in the budget and cannot be amended further at this point. The Governor proposed emergency language to allow community associations more flexibility to meet in light of the COVID crisis. He also proposed language that would abate interest on Virginia taxes that are paid before June 1, 2020. He also propose language to give the Department of Corrections the flexibility to grant early release to prisoners scheduled to be released in the next twelve months. He also proposed to move our local elections, including those in the towns of Occoquan and Quantico, from May to November. I doubt that will pass. He also used existing legislative authority to order our pending June primaries for U.S. Congress to be delayed two weeks to June 23, 2020. Governor Northam also signed several of my bills. My “Do Not Sell Registry” allows Virginians to voluntarily place themselves on a list to be prohibited from purchasing a firearm. This measure will prove helpful to people suffering from periodic mental illness where they can spiral into temporary but deep depression such as bipolar mood disorder. Suicides are the leading cause of firearm death in Virginia and this goes directly at the mental health aspect of the problem. The Governor proposed amendments to my legislation to allow more people to benefit from the low-income component of my community solar legislation. This bill will allow people in neighborhoods with heavy tree cover, apartments, condos, or small businesses to purchase access to solar panels to count against the home electricity usage. He also proposed to amend my legislation to increase penalties for drivers who seriously injure pedestrians and cyclists to also include injuries to passengers of cyclists such as children who may be riding in trailers or on bike seats. Unfortunately, the $3 million grant that I helped secure with Delegate Mark Sickles and Paul Krizek was proposed for cuts along with the funds that Delegate Sickles, Delegate Kathy Tran and I obtained for Mason Neck State Park to restore staffing. The Governor also propose defunding monies for a new Fairfax County General District Court Judge position along with over 50 new Public Defender Positions and 50 new District Court Clerk Positions. Probably 10 positions each would have served Fairfax, Prince William and Stafford Counties. All raises for state employees were proposed for cuts including court staff, law enforcement, and other state workers such as those at George Mason University, probation and parole staff, ABC Store workers, or other state agencies with a Northern Virginia presence. Increases in K-12 spending were cut by $50,000,000 over the biennium and will flow through to the 36th District if approved. The college tuition freeze was proposed for cancellation along with the Governor’s new free community college program and some early childhood education funds. If you have college age children, like me, you can expect tuition increases. While we all continue to adjust to this new “normal,” I would encourage all to shop locally and buy take out locally from those businesses that remain open or please consider giving to one of our local food banks who are overwhelmed right now. We will all get through this together with the collective strength of our community. Please email me if you have any thoughts or feedback before the session at scott@scottsurovell.org.
Weekly Column: State Legislature Must Make Tough Decisions April 7, 2020 The following is my column that will appear in the Mt. Vernon Gazette, Springfield Connection, The Prince William Times, The Fort Hunt Herald, and Potomac Local in the week of April 5, 2020. State Legislature Must Make Tough Decisions Instead of reporting on the accomplishments of the General Assembly’s 2020 session, in recent weeks I have chosen to provide information about the COVID-19 crisis and its impacts. The worldwide coronavirus pandemic is likely to change much of what state legislators passed earlier this year. Many measures are in limbo, especially the state’s budget. The legislature will reconvene on April 22 to consider budget changes and vetoes that Governor Ralph Northam may propose. This week, Governor Northam announced that he is putting all new spending in the state’s new two-year budget on hold. Therefore, it appears that when we reconvene, we will consider proposed amendments to implement his proposals, pending economic analyses, projections and decisions on how the state can use the $3 billion in federal stimulus dollars. While Virginia has the largest cash reserve in the state’s history -- $2 billion – it is increasingly apparent that what lies ahead is the country’s greatest economic downturn since the Great Depression. Unlike the federal government, the state legislature is required by the state constitution to pass a balanced budget. If revenues decline, we must raise taxes or make cuts. While the details are not yet public, when we reconvene, we will likely be faced with cancelling raises for teachers, state employees, the Virginia State Police and local law enforcement. Increases in K-12 funding will probably be significantly reduced. Our historic investments in early childhood education and the second year of college tuition freezes will likely be eliminated. The budget we passed in March increased Medicaid reimbursement rates for the first time in a long time – they are probably gone. It is unclear if the modest gas tax increase will be reversed, but it could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in new transportation and transit investments. There is no question that with everyone at home, regardless of what the gas tax rate is, revenues from gas and vehicle sales taxes will plummet for much of this year and inhibit transportation infrastructure investments. Several local initiatives that I promoted are at risk: $25 million to fund the infrastructure to end Alexandria’s raw sewage discharges, the largest clean water investments in state history, a $4 million grant for the new U.S. Army Museum at Fort Belvoir and new funds to restore staffing cuts at Mason Neck State Park. The opening of the Prince William County Public Defender’s Office could be put on hold. Unprecedented investments in the Affordable Housing Trust Fund are threatened. On Sunday, April 12, the Governor is scheduled to announce his amendments and vetoes. He has signed many bills, but he has not acted on hundreds. In addition, because the budget trumps legislation, some bills that the Governor has already signed could be delayed or defunded by the budget. This is a truly unprecedented situation. I am hopeful that the minimum wage increase bill will not be weakened. The new $9.50 minimum wage is not scheduled to take effect until January 1, 2021, and is truly a modest increase. We also passed legislation to give counties the same taxing authority as cities. I had mixed views on the bill given that we did not give counties other new responsibilities or equalize other responsibilities such as sovereign immunity and I ultimately voted in favor of it, but I would not be surprised if that legislation is placed on hold. Finally, as the COVID-19 crisis persists, I am increasingly concerned that many employees in the 36th District may be at increased risk as they do not hold jobs in which they can telecommute and are not given personal protective equipment (PPE). Fairfax County Health Department and Virginia Health Department data are not differentiated so we cannot determine exactly what groups of people, zip codes, or age brackets are being hit the hardest with infections and death. I have asked the Governor’s office for more refined data so we can more finely tune our policy responses. Please check my Twitter and Facebook feeds for more information or signup for my emails. If you have any feedback, please send me a note at scott@scottsurovell.org.
Weekly Column: Stay At Home! March 31, 2020 The following is my column that will appear in the Mt. Vernon Gazette, Springfield Connection, The Prince William Times, The Fort Hunt Herald, and Potomac Local in the week of March 29, 2020. Stay At Home! The last two weeks brought us two executive orders and one consistent message from our Governor – Stay. At. Home. Last week, Governor Northam issued an order extending school closures, closing all entertainment and personal care venues and businesses, and restricting access at certain non-essential businesses. This Monday, the Governor further restricted public gatherings after Virginians continued to appear in large groups at the beaches and a few restaurants. It is important to understand that this disease can be transmitted before carriers develop symptoms. It also appears to transmit without physical contact. The majority of individuals diagnosed with this virus are under age 50. While people under 50 tend to be less at risk for death, if one person under 50 infects 20 other people, the chain of transmission ultimately results in more deaths. Continuing to socialize with others is incredibly selfish. On Tuesday, the Commonwealth reported 230 new confirmed infections. At that daily rate with no acceleration, the number of confirmed cases in Virginia could double in five days. With new testing coming on line, we are still in the process of getting this crisis under control. In addition, much testing takes 4-6 days to return results, plus people are often not symptomatic for a period of time. The results we are seeing today could be a result of social activity that occurred 1-2 weeks ago. A model put out by the University of Washington predicts that Virginia will see a peak in early May with 3,400 beds needed including 512 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds. In Virginia we have 329 ICU beds available. Executive Order #55 which was issued on Monday does a few things. First, it directs everyone to stay at home unless engaging in nine excepted activities such as getting food, medical attention, taking care of family members or going to work – if you place of employment is still open, can meet the requirements of the other Executive Order and you cannot telecommute, and a few other categories. It also says it is acceptable to engage in outdoor activity provided that you can comply with social distancing requirements. The new order closes Virginia’s beaches to everything except exercising and fishing. It prohibits all in-person higher education classes such as what was occurring at Liberty University, and any stays at campgrounds under 14 days. It clarifies that any gathering, public or private, of less than 10 persons are prohibited. Violations of most provisions of the order are a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to twelve month in jail and $2,500 fine and is enforceable by state or local law enforcement. In the meantime, the Commonwealth is attempting to procure more testing, but are severely limited by competing demands of 49 other states and 130 other counties, and a lack of federal coordination. The Commonwealth has developed some independent testing capacity at our university hospitals and private hospital systems, but the sources of reagents needed to manufacture the tests is limited and equipment manpower to process the results is being acquired. Therefore, testing availability continues to be limited. The Commonwealth is making contingency plans for a surge on hospital resources and the National Guard has been activated, but not deployed. Virginia is also working on implementing the resources created by the recent federal stimulus act to enhance unemployment benefits, deploy housing assistance, and food resources that are administered at the federal level. Given Virginia’s balanced budget requirements, reprogramming massive parts of our budget without tax increases is relatively difficult, but we are also preparing to make adjustments as we approach the Reconvened or Veto Session on April 22. This week, the Fairfax County General Assembly Delegation collectively donated $5,000 to area foodbanks. Please consider doing so yourself. Please consider volunteering for the Virginia Medical Reserve Corps if you are able at https://vvhs.vamrc.org/. You can find complete information on my blog at scottsurovell.blogspot.comor the state’s new website www.virginia.gov/coronavirus. If you have any questions about government assistant, small business programs, questions about the executive orders, or any policy ideas, please contact my office at 571.249.4484 or email me at scott@scottsurovell.org.
2020 36th District Paving Maps March 27, 2020 VDOT will repave over 100 lane miles in the 36th District portions of eastern Fairfax, Prince William, and Stafford Counties this summer. The entire map of roadwork for the 2020 summer paving season can be viewed at http://bit.ly/VDOTPaving2020.This work is only made possible by tax increases passed in the 2013 transportation bill - HB2313. I voted for the 2013 transportation bill as a State Delegate after a significant reduction of the Hybrid Tax. Though it was not perfect, the 2013 bill provided the revenues necessary to restart road maintenance that had been put on hold for two years. We had not raised transportation taxes in 28 years and we are continuing to dig out of the maintenance backlog. Re-paving these streets is long overdue.In Virginia, all public roads are owned and maintained by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). Our local governments play no role in road maintenance.Several of the affected neighborhoods in the 36th District are Villamay, Wellington, Marumsco, Woodbridge, Colby Drive, Spriggs Road and Widewater. Maps by neighborhood can be seen below. Rippon-area paving scheduled for 2020 Mt. Vernon paving scheduled for 2020 Widewater paving scheduled for 2020 Montclair paving scheduled for 2020 Occoquan/Lakeridge Paving Scheduled for 2020
Weekly Column: Virginia's Actions To Address the COVID-19 Crisis March 23, 2020 The following is my column that will appear in the Mt. Vernon Gazette, Springfield Connection, The Prince William Times, The Fort Hunt Herald, and Potomac Local in the week of March 22, 2020. This week, I had planned to write about some of the major bills that we passed in the 2020 session of the General Assembly, but in light of the coronavirus risk and its impacts, I decided that updating the community on the Commonwealth’s responses is a priority. Here is where things stand as of Sunday, March 22. Please keep in mind this will be published later and things change daily. Multiple websites offer guidance and updates on the coronavirus and how to address it. The state’s website is vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus and I post daily updates on my blog, scottsurovell.blogspot.com. I have spent most of the entire week home with my family like many other people. My law firm decided to remain open with a skeleton crew, four people versus 30 in the office every day, until further notice. I had my shift on Friday. Otherwise, I worked on my constituents’ problems and my legal responsibilities from home and had some quality family time. Coronavirus infections in Virginia continue to rise at a logarithmic rate. The increases on Saturday and Sunday were 37 percent and 55 percent over the prior day’s total. The virus is continuing to expand its reach in Virginia at rapid rate and we still do not know the complete infection rate due to a lack of testing. The state and most of the rest of the country have moved beyond containment. We are now focused on mitigation. Virginia Governor Ralph Northam requested our share of the national stockpile of personal protective equipment (PPE) early. Virginia received 10 percent of what we requested and that was 50 percent of the national stockpile. The country was clearly unprepared. The state government has been requesting test kits, but the reagents for the kits are in limited supply as 50 states and 130 countries chase the same materials and our existing laboratory capacity is insufficient to process large volumes of tests. We have asked our university medical centers to step up their capacity to process tests. So far, the University of Virginia was able to help, but they are only able to process 80 tests per day starting this past weekend. Again, the country was unprepared for this even though we had around 60 days to prepare for it before it arrived in the U.S. On February 26, the President said we had 15 cases in the United States and that “within a couple of days is going to be down close to zero.” That is a quote. Here is a summary of some of the major actions taken by the state of Virginia: · The Governor has prohibited 10 people from being in the same place at once. This means that gatherings of more than 10 people at most restaurants, churches and other places cannot occur. A violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor. · The state has extended the deadline to file and pay your state taxes from May 1 to June 1. We could not extend it 90 days like the federal government due to implications for the next fiscal year that begins July 1. (The federal government extended the deadline for paying 2019 federal taxes to July 1, 2020.) · The state has extended all deadlines to renew state vehicle licenses and state vehicle inspections by 60 days. Both Fairfax County and Prince William Police Departments have indicated that they will not enforce violations of overdue vehicle licenses and inspections during that period. · The state has cancelled all remaining Standards of Learning Tests and is seeking a waiver from the U.S. Department of Education which requires the test. · The state received an Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration which makes small businesses eligible to apply for loans of up to $2 million each. · Unemployment claims spiked by 1,500 percent last week after 30,000 applications came in. Virginia has eliminated the one-week waiting period; expanded eligibility to those who are quarantined, sick or caring for a child whose school or childcare was closed; and eliminated the requirement to continue seeking work. · The State Corporation Commission granted Attorney General Mark Herring’s petition to prohibit utilities from terminating utility services for 60 days. · The state Supreme Court has extended all filing deadlines for any proceedings to April 6 and most area courts have continued all cases until after that date. That has effectively temporarily postponed all eviction cases, for a short period of time. We are still assessing the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the state budget. It will be significant. Strong, clear, consistent federal leadership in this crisis is critical and that has been lacking. In its absence, your state officials will continue to step up, but this is a national problem that requires national solutions. If you have any feedback, please email me at scott@scottsurovell.org.
COVID-19 Public Schools Meals Distribution in 36th District March 19, 2020 All of our local school systems are distributing meals to children during the school shutdown. There are over a dozen sites in the 36th District. Here are how you find the locations in Fairfax, Prince William and Stafford County: Fairfax County Public Schools Meal Sites Fairfax County Bus Route Meal Service Prince William County Public Schools Meal Sites Stafford County Public Schools Meal Sites Please let us know if you have any problems or require any further information.

These are all of the video clips of Scott Surovell’s remarks on the floor of the Senate since 2010. There are 210 video clips in all.

SB449: Death penalty; abolishes penalty, including those persons currently under a death sentence.
SB626: Hazardous Substance Aboveground Storage Tank Fund; created.
SB637: Estate tax; reinstatement.
SB641: Civil action; sale of personal data.
SB1092: Performance guarantees, certain; provisions for periodic partial and final release.
SB1165: Death penalty; abolition of current penalty.
SB1180: Civil actions filed on behalf of multiple persons.
SB1181: Special immigrant juvenile status; jurisdiction.
SB1182: Motor vehicle liability insurance coverage limits.
SB1289: Health insurance; carrier business practices, provider contracts.
SB1339: Expungement and sealing of police and court records; Expungement Fee Fund created.
SB1384: Virginia Public Procurement Act; local arbitration agreements.
SB1385: Underground utility lines; Fairfax County.
SB1440: Civil action for unlawful acts of force or failure to intervene by a law-enforcement officer.
SJ278: Commending the Honorable Bruce D. White.
SJ279: Commending the Honorable Steven Selwyn Smith.
SJ280: Commending the Honorable Kimberly J. Daniel.
SJ281: Commending the Honorable Janine M. Saxe.
SJ283: Celebrating the life of Marisa L. Fleck.

SB33: Consumer finance companies; loans, licensing.
SB34: Driver privilege cards; definitions, effective date, report.
SB35: Firearms, ammunition, etc.; control by localities by governing possession, etc., within locality.
SB37: Open-end credit plans; civil penalty.
SB38: Open-end credit plans; governing law.
SB72: Public defender offices; Cities of Manassas and Manassas Park and County of Prince William.
SB106: Hydraulic fracturing; drilling through any portion of a groundwater management area, prohibition.
SB108: Virginia State Justice Commission; purpose, membership.
SB160: Handheld personal communications devices; holding devices while driving a motor vehicle.
SB245: Conversion therapy; prohibited by certain health care providers.
SB246: Driver's license, etc.; sex designation on application form.
SB247: No-fault divorce; gender-neutral terminology.
SB428: Initial child support order; unreimbursed medical expenses for pregnancy and birth.
SB429: Child support; withholding from income of an independent contractor.
SB430: Minor's child-care records; access by parent.
SB431: Provision of mental health services to a minor; access to health records.
SB432: Spousal support; reservation of right to seek, material change of circumstances.
SB433: Domestic relations cases; invocation of constitutional rights, adverse inference.
SB434: Child support; assignment of tax credits.
SB435: Waterfowl blinds; blinds in locality where certain hunting prohibited.
SB436: Virginia Voluntary Do Not Sell Firearms List; established, penalty.
SB437: Bicyclists and other vulnerable road users; penalty.
SB438: Judicial performance evaluation program; risk assessment tool, use of alternative sanction.
SB439: Driving under the influence; remote alcohol monitoring, penalty.
SB440: Electronic transmission of sexually explicit visual material by minors; penalties.
SB441: Alcoholic beverage control; winery license privileges.
SB449: Death penalty; abolishes penalty, including those persons currently under a death sentence.
SB451: Juvenile and domestic relations district court; award of attorney fees and costs.
SB489: Criminal cases; authority to defer and dismiss.
SB491: Inquiry and report of immigration status; persons charged with or convicted of certain crimes.
SB492: Sex offenses; requiring registration.
SB625: Failure to advise of consequences of guilty plea; vacation of conviction.
SB626: Hazardous Substance Aboveground Storage Tank Fund; created.
SB628: Virginia Residential Property Disclosure Act; residential building energy analysis.
SB629: Shared solar programs; electric utility regulation, etc.
SB630: Common interest communities; electric vehicle charging stations permitted.
SB631: Abandoned and stolen shopping carts; local regulation.
SB632: Public utilities; aggregate energy storage capacity in the Commonwealth.
SB634: Alternative and efficient energies; subsidies and effective clause.
SB635: Right to reproductive choice; right to refuse contraception.
SB636: Racial inequity; repeals numerous obsolete and discriminatory Acts.
SB637: Estate tax; reinstatement.
SB638: Affordable housing; location near Metrorail station.
SB639: Virginia Growth and Opportunity Fund; regional grant awards.
SB640: Unlawful detainer; expungement of actions, effective date.
SB641: Civil action; sale of personal data.
SB642: Multi-jurisdiction grand jury; functions, failure to pay wages.
SB645: Local arbitration agreements; disclosure of certain information.
SB646: Tetrahydrocannabinol concentration; definition.
SB655: Physical injuries or death caused to a person; consideration of bills.
SB658: Contracts with design professionals; provisions requiring a duty to defend void.
SB659: Contributory negligence; motor vehicle accident involving a pedestrian, bicyclist, etc.
SB661: Accrual of cause of action; diagnoses of nonmalignant and malignant asbestos-related injury.
SB663: Practice of medicine and other healing arts; provision of litigation assistance.
SB664: Motor vehicles; liability insurance coverage limits, effective date.
SB937: TANF Scholarship Pilot Program; VCCS to establish and administer.
SB963: Energy manager; responsibilities.
SB995: Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority; labor organizations.
SB1043: Civil actions; filed on behalf of multiple persons.
SB1092: Performance guarantees, certain; provisions for periodic partial and final release.
SB5032: Assault and battery; penalty.
SB5033: Court authority in criminal cases; prosecutorial discretion to dispose of a criminal case.
SB5045: Virginia Criminal Sentencing Commission, et al.; required to prepare fiscal impact statements.
SJ34: Mandatory minimum sentences; VSCC to study use, etc.
SJ47: Court of Appeals of Virginia; Judicial Council of Virginia to study jurisdiction and organization.
SJ153: Commending River Oaks Elementary School.
SJ154: Commending Triangle Elementary School.
SJ155: Commending Forest Park High School.
SR71: Commending the Lee-Mount Vernon Sports Club.
SR516: Commending Lloyd J. 'Bud' Vye.
SR564: Commending the Honorable Janine M. Saxe.

SB93: Parole; eligibility for, at liberty between offenses.
SB613: Local government; deposition.
SB737: Driving under influence of alcohol; license conditions for first offense.
SB765: Coal ash ponds; mandatory testing of drinking water wells in Chesapeake Bay watershed.
SB766: Citizen water quality monitoring; use as evidence in enforcement actions.
SB767: Coal ash ponds; flaws in closure plans, delay of permit.
SB768: Electric utilities; recovery of costs associated with closure in place of coal ash facilities.
SB770: Absentee voting; alternative locations for in-person absentee voting.
SB771: Absentee voting; counting military and overseas absentee ballots received after close of polls.
SB808: Electric utilities; Transitional Rate Period, coal combustion residuals landfills.
SB938: Child support; withholding of income, contracts with an independent contractor.
SB1533: Coal combustion residuals; Chesapeake Bay watershed, closure.
SB1534: Coal combustion residuals; cleanup costs.
SB1535: Uniform Statewide Building Code; outdoor advertising.
SB1536: Out-of-state conviction of drug offenses; petition for restricted driver's license.
SB1537: Virginia Property Owners' Association Act; home-based businesses.
SB1538: Common interest communities; dissemination of annual budget, reserve for capital components.
SB1539: Child support; withholding of income of independent contractors.
SB1540: Protective orders; contents of preliminary orders, docketing of appeal.
SB1541: No-fault divorce; waiver of service of process.
SB1542: Civil actions; determination of indigency, no-fault divorce.
SB1543: Wrongful death beneficiaries; parents of decedent who receive support or services, etc.
SB1544: Assisted conception; parentage presumption.
SB1548: Consumer finance companies; loans, licensing.
SB1549: Virginia Consumer Protection Act; exclusion.
SB1550: Bicyclists & other vulnerable road users; person who operates a motor vehicle in a careless manner.
SB1551: School resource officers; memorandums of understanding.
SB1552: Absentee voting; alternative locations for in-person absentee voting.
SB1553: Urban county executive form of government; abandoned shopping carts.
SB1554: Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA); violations and civil penalties.
SB1691: Dumfries, Town of; amending charter, town council elections, etc.
SB1740: Driver privilege cards; penalty.
SB1756: Virginia Condominium and Virginia Property Owners' Association Acts; stormwater facilities.
SB1757: Custody and visitation arrangements; best interests of the child, domestic abuse and child abuse.
SB1758: Juvenile and domestic relations district courts; jurisdiction, specific findings of fact.
SB1759: Underground electric distribution lines; placing in areas of transit-oriented development.
SJ438: Celebrating the life of John Harper.
SJ439: Commending United Community Ministries, Inc.
SJ440: Commending the Northern Virginia Conservation Trust.
SJ441: Commending the Prince William County Bar Association.
SJ442: Commending Neabsco Elementary School.
SJ461: Commending Barney Barnwell.
SJ465: Commending the Honorable Jan Brodie.

SB21: Grand larceny & certain property crimes; increases threshold amount of money taken, etc., to $500.
SB22: Security freezes; elimination of fees.
SB74: Handheld personal communications devices; use while driving.
SB85: Protective orders, preliminary; contents of order.
SB86: Driver's license; driving after forfeiture of license, penalty.
SB87: Careless driving; cause of injury to vulnerable road user.
SB88: Bicycle lane; penalty for driver to pass another vehicle using lane.
SB89: Child abuse or neglect; civil proceedings, testimony of children.
SB93: Parole, eligibility for; at liberty between offenses.
SB94: Police and court records; expungement of records.
SB95: Security freezes; protected consumer, proof of authority,
SB245: Conversion therapy; prohibited by certain health care providers.
SB447: Firearms; transfers, etc., penalties.
SB607: Electronic transmission of sexually explicit images by minors; penalties.
SB608: Police and court records; expungement, plea agreements.
SB609: Juvenile offenders; Retention of jurisdiction.
SB610: Adultery; reduces Class 4 misdemeanor to a civil penalty.
SB611: Motor vehicles; increases liability insurance coverage limits.
SB612: Assisted conception; parentage presumption.
SB613: Local government; deposition.
SB614: Spousal support; modification.
SB615: Spousal support payments; employer withholding.
SB616: Waiver of immunity; persons covered by insurance policy.
SB617: Statute of limitations; discovery rule.
SB618: Expert witnesses; no fees shall be charged by government officer and employees.
SB619: Virginia Human Rights Act; limitations on causes of action.
SB620: Arbitration; denial of motion to compel.
SB621: Driver privilege cards; authorizes issuance of new cards by DMV.
SB622: Local transportation plan; secondary system road construction program allocation.
SB623: Electronic Routing Registry; created.
SB624: Va. Consumer Protection Act; open-end credit plans.
SB625: Consumer finance companies; licensing by SCC.
SB626: Life insurance on minors; consent of parents.
SB627: Home inspection servicers; certain contract provisions prohibited.
SB628: Notaries; qualifications, misdemeanor offense of moral turpitude.
SB629: State Corporation Commission; disclosures of information provided by financial institutions.
SB630: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; civil penalty.
SB705: Va. Condominium & Property Owners' Association Act; contents of disclosure packets.
SB706: Common interest communities; reserves for capital components, budget.
SB707: Virginia Property Owners' Association Act; home-based businesses.
SB722: Condominium and Property Owners' Association Acts; access to association books and records.
SB737: Driving under influence of alcohol; license conditions for first offense.
SB765: Coal ash ponds; mandatory testing of drinking water wells in Chesapeake Bay watershed.
SB766: Citizen water quality monitoring; use as evidence in enforcement actions.
SB767: Coal ash ponds; flaws in closure plans, delay of permit.
SB768: Electric utilities; recovery of costs associated with closure in place of coal ash facilities.
SB769: Alcoholic beverage control; beer licenses.
SB770: Absentee voting; alternative locations for in-person absentee voting.
SB771: Absentee voting; counting military and overseas absentee ballots received after close of polls.
SB772: Claims; Danial J Williams, Joseph Jesse Dick, Jr., Eric Cameron Wilson, and Derek Elliot Tice.
SB785: Electronic textbooks; prohibits local school boards from requiring use in any course in grades 6-12.
SB786: Public schools; fee for enrollment of certain students.
SB787: Governor's Schools; enrollment.
SB789: Family life education; sexually explicit communications and images.
SB807: Coal combustion residuals and other units; permits, request for proposals.
SB808: Electric utilities; Transitional Rate Period, coal combustion residuals landfills.
SB938: Child support; withholding of income, contracts with an independent contractor.
SB951: Eastern Virginia; hydraulic fracturing prohibited.
SJ4: United States Constitution; ratifies Equal Rights Amendment.
SJ17: Commending the Honorable Gerald Bruce Lee.
SJ28: Driving under influence of alcohol; VSCC to study decrease in convictions.
SJ58: Law clerks; study on use and impact on judicial workload and work product.
SJ72: Commending the Honorable Helen Leiner.
SJ103: Commending the Honorable Craig D. Johnston.
SJ147: Commending the Honorable James C. Cacheris.
SJ148: Commending Fort Hunt Little League.
SJ149: Commending Riverside Elementary School.
SJ150: Commending John F. Pattie Sr. Elementary School.
SJ240: Commending Embark Richmond Highway.
SJ243: Commending the Mount Vernon Voice.

SB255: Toll relief; Department of Transportation to study.
SB533: Sales and use tax; exemption for certain nonprofit entities.
SB741: Tax administration; awards for detection of tax underpayments.
SB752: Health insurance provider contracts; accepting enrollees as patients.
SB814: Foreign business entities; services of summons for witness or subpoena duces tecum.
SB815: Child support, unpaid; priority of debts to be paid from decedent's assets.
SB816: Grand larceny & certain property crimes; increases threshold amount of money taken, etc., to $1,000.
SB817: Restricted driver's license; purposes.
SB818: Potomac River Watershed; DEQ to identify owner of any combined sewer overflow outfall, etc.
SB860: Use of handheld personal communications devices while driving; penalty.
SB861: Preliminary protective orders; contents of order.
SB862: Driving after forfeiture of license.
SB863: Operating a motor vehicle; obstructed view; secondary offense.
SB906: Introduction of snakehead fish; penalty.
SB907: Higher educational institutions, public; certain positions require residency of the Commonwealth.
SB1102: FOIA; records of completed unattended death investigations, definition, mandatory disclosure.
SB1103: FOIA; closed meeting violations, civil penalty.
SB1104: Form of ballot; order of independent candidates, required paperwork.
SB1124: Adultery; civil penalty.
SB1125: Virginia Consumer Protection Act; open-end credit plans.
SB1126: Consumer finance companies; Internet loans, report.
SB1335: Electronic textbooks; prohibits local school boards from requiring use in any course in grades 6-12.
SB1336: Sales and use tax; school supplies and hurricane preparedness sales tax holidays.
SB1337: Claims; Davey Reedy.
SB1338: Bicycle lane; penalty for driver to pass another vehicle using lane.
SB1339: Careless driving; infliction of injury on vulnerable road user.
SB1340: Towing; regulations.
SB1341: Government records; digital certification.
SB1342: District courts; jurisdictional limit does not include any attorney fees.
SB1343: Guardian ad litem; reimbursement for cost.
SB1344: In camera interviews of child; court's discretion to conduct recording or transcript.
SB1345: Driver privilege cards; issuance of new cards by DMV.
SB1346: Associate-degree-granting institutions; transfer of credit information.
SB1383: Coal ash; treatment by utilities, recycling.
SB1398: Coal combustion residuals unit; closure permit, assessments required.
SB1399: Coal combustion by-product impoundments; closure requirements.
SB1405: Higher educational institutions, public; notice of proposed tuition increase.
SB1439: Firearms; transfers to a non-licensed dealer.
SB1498: Intoxicated drivers; punitive damages for persons injured.
SB1512: Charitable gaming; conduct of games, special permits.
SJ84: Public transportation services; DRPT to evaluate study necessary to identify, etc.
SJ221: United States Constitution; Ratifies Equal Rights Amendment.
SJ226: Constitutional amendment; registration of voters (first reference).
SJ227: Constitutional amendment (first resolution); Governor's term of office.
SJ291: Study; Virginia State Crime Commission; decrease in driving a motor vehicle while intoxicated.
SJ292: Study; SCHEV; financial reserves; report.
SJ364: Commending Marine Corps Base Quantico.
SJ365: Commending the Honorable David S. Schell.
SJ366: Celebrating the life of Fannie Wilkinson Fitzgerald.
SJ370: Commending Bernard S. Cohen and Philip J. Hirschkop.
SJ374: Commending Alexandra Blaire Krieger.
SJ375: Commending the Honorable Jane Marum Roush.
SJ376: Celebrating the life of Michael Moore Skinner.
SJ377: Commending Occoquan Elementary School.
SJ442: Commending Tauxemont Cooperative Preschool.
SR130: Commending the Honorable Lon E. Farris.

SB164: Consumer finance loans; rate of interest.
SB165: Open-end credit agreements; sellers of certain goods to extend credit.
SB166: Motor vehicle title lenders; narrows exemption for consumer finance companies.
SB167: Consumer finance companies; annual reports.
SB170: Nonsuits; tolling of limitations, contractual limitation periods.
SB171: Insurance; jury award of attorney fees for bad faith.
SB172: Foreign entities; consent to jurisdiction & service of summons for witness or subpoena duces tecum.
SB173: Child custody or visitation; filing single petition.
SB174: Adultery; reduces penalty to a civil penalty.
SB177: Grand larceny; increases threshold amount of money taken, etc., to $1,000.
SB255: Toll relief; Department of Transportation to study.
SB256: High-occupancy toll (HOT) lanes; statute of limitations on penalties.
SB257: HOV and HOT lanes; penalties, increased fines for subsequent offenses.
SB258: Commonwealth Transportation Board; voting weighted by population.
SB259: Persons involuntarily admitted or ordered to outpatient treatment; purchase, etc., of ammunition.
SB260: Concealed handgun permit; disqualifications, residential mental health or substance abuse treatment.
SB261: Driving under influence; private property.
SB262: Conversion therapy prohibited.
SB263: Firearms; purchase by persons intending to commit act of terrorism, penalty.
SB318: Certificate of relief from collateral criminal consequences.
SB386: Evidence; objections to business records.
SB387: Regulation of towing.
SB388: Virginia Consumer Protection Act; failure to make required statement.
SB389: Local permitting or licensure; consent of common interest community association prohibited.
SB390: Temporary visitor's driver's licenses; DMV may issue.
SB391: Driver's license; driving after forfeiture, guilty of an offense.
SB392: Real property; judgment creditor may record an instrument, upon payment of fee for recordation, etc.
SB393: Preliminary protective orders; contents of order.
SB492: FOIA; limitation on exemption for certain criminal investigative files.
SB493: FOIA; closed meeting not authorized for discussion of pay increases.
SB494: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; record exclusions, rule of redaction, etc.
SB531: Digital document authentication standards; Secretary of the Commonwealth to establish.
SB532: Paper and plastic bags; authorizes localities in Planning District 8 by ordinance to impose a tax.
SB533: Sales and use tax; exemption for certain nonprofit entities.
SB534: Criminal history record information; unauthorized dissemination, civil actions.
SB537: Coal combustion by-product impoundments; closure requirements.
SB538: Students with limited English proficiency; alternative to the eleventh grade Standards of Learning.
SB539: Conflict of Interests Act, State and Local Government; requirement to file semiannual disclosure.
SB572: Improper driving; jury may find accused not guilty.
SB649: Claims; Davey Reedy.
SB663: Careless driving; cause of injury to vulnerable road user.
SB664: Ballots; order of names of candidates for school boards.
SB739: Drug products; products compounded by nonresident outsourcing facilities.
SB740: Electronic textbooks; use by students.
SB741: Tax administration; awards for detection of tax underpayments.
SB752: Health insurance provider contracts; accepting enrollees as patients.
SJ1: United States Constitution; ratifying the Equal Rights Amendment.
SJ84: Public transportation services; DRPT to evaluate study necessary to identify, etc.
SJ141: Commending Charles Haley.
SJ167: Commending the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue.
SJ190: Commending the Friends of Dyke Marsh.
SJ191: Commending Rising Hope United Methodist Mission Church.
SJ192: Commending Swans Creek Elementary School.
SJ197: Commending Anne Andrews.
SJ205: Commending Inova Mount Vernon Hospital.
SR89: Commending the Honorable Teena D. Grodner.
SR90: Commending the Honorable Thomas E. Gallahue.
SR91: Commending the Honorable Ian M. OFlaherty.

HB1289: Same-sex marriages; civil unions.
HB1684: Standards of Learning assessments; waivers.
HB2010: Public elementary and secondary schools; uniform statewide grading scale.
HB2011: Motor vehicle title lenders; location of offices.
HB2012: Starter interrupt devices; prohibits requiring installation on certain motor vehicles.
HB2013: State Corporation Commission; disclosure of records related to administrative activities.
HB2014: Adultery; reduces penalty from a Class 4 misdemeanor to a civil penalty.
HB2015: Creditor process; bankruptcy proceeding exemptions.
HB2016: Personal injury or wrongful death action; qualification of fiduciary.
HB2017: Aircraft, certain; local regulation.
HB2232: Persons involuntarily admitted or ordered to outpatient treatment; purchase, etc., ammunition.
HB2337: Family life education; sexually explicit communications and images.
HB2339: Electronic textbooks; access by students in their residence.
HB2375: Employers; reasonable accommodation for employees with disability.
HJ493: Constitutional amendment (first resolution); marriage.
HJ494: Constitutional amendment (first resolution); registration of voters.
HJ495: United States Constitution; Equal Rights Amendment.
HJ496: Constitutional amendment (first resolution); Governor's term of office.
HJ581: Highways; JLARC to study alternative taxes and fees for funding in the Commonwealth.
HJ582: Electronic government records; joint subcommittee to study feasibility of authenticating records.
HJ583: Local government charter, model; joint subcommittee established to study creation of charter.
HJ625: Education resources; DOE, et al; to study allocations.
HJ675: Commending the Honorable Dennis J. Smith.
HJ676: Commending the Honorable Charles J. Maxfield.
HJ677: Celebrating the life of the Honorable R. Terrence Ney.
HJ678: Celebrating the life of Jean Williams Auldridge.
HJ710: Celebrating the life of Warren Ira Cikins.
HJ787: Celebrating the life of the Honorable Herbert E. Harris II.
HJ867: Commending the Honorable Donald P. McDonough.
HJ868: Commending the Fairfax Young Democrats.
HJ869: Commending Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School.
HJ872: Commending Gerald W. Hyland.
HR303: Commending Hollin Meadows Elementary School.
HR307: Celebrating the life of Lieutenant Colonel John Albert Bornmann, Jr., USA (Ret.).

HB4: Hybrid electric motor vehicles; repeals annual license tax, refunds.
HB244: Grand larceny; threshold.
HB245: Conflict of Interests Act, State and Local Government; prohibited contracts between Governor.
HB246: Governor and Attorney General; parties to litigation with state, prohibited conduct, penalties.
HB247: Governor's Development Opportunity Fund; political contributions and gifts, prohibited conduct.
HB248: Special counsel; cap on compensation paid to those appointed to handle certain legal matters.
HB249: Judgment proceeding; setting aside judgment confessed.
HB250: Child custody or visitation; petition.
HB251: Real Estate Board; death or disability of a broker.
HB252: Public assets; misuse, penalty.
HB327: Law-Enforcement Officers Procedural Guarantee Act; definition of law-enforcement officer.
HB378: Improper driving; jury hearing case.
HB379: Commonwealth Transportation Board; changes composition of membership.
HB380: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; disclosure pursuant to court order or subpoena.
HB934: Security freezes; protected consumers, penalties.
HB936: Electronic textbooks; accessibility by students at school and in their residence.
HB937: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; application to the State Corporation Commission, exemptions.
HB938: Jurors; persons liable to serve.
HB939: Same-sex marriages; civil unions.
HB940: Adultery; reduces civil penalty.
HB941: Operating a vehicle or vessel containing a false compartment; penalty.
HB942: Death sentences; removes electrocution as manner of execution for prisoners, lethal injection.
HB943: Ignition interlock system; time for installation.
HB944: Ignition interlock systems; DUI drugs.
HB945: Driving under influence of alcohol; first offenders, license conditions.
HB964: Firearms; purchase by persons intending to commit act of terrorism, penalty.
HB979: Businesses, certain; local limitations on number.
HB980: Absentee voting; publication of street address for return of absentee ballots.
HB982: Police and court records; expungement of records, waiver of hearing.
HB984: Appeal from bail, bond, or recognizance order; compliance with appellate court.
HB1061: Electric utility regulation; renewable energy portfolio standard program.
HB1158: Distributed electric generation; establishment of community solar gardens.
HB1198: School buildings; National Register of Historic Places and Virginia Landmarks Register.
HB1248: 911 emergency service calls; recordings shall be deemed authentic if with certain information.
HB1260: Sexually explicit images; electronic transmission by minors, penalty.
HJ11: Constitutional amendment; marriage (first reference).
HJ12: United States Constitution; General Assembly to ratify and affirm Equal Rights Amendment.
HJ178: Celebrating the life of Lieutenant Colonel Gerald L. Read, USA (Ret.).
HJ179: Commending the Honorable Jonathan Cooper Thacher.
HJ181: Celebrating the life of Clifford Scott Hardison.
HJ189: Commending Good Shepherd Housing and Family Services, Inc.
HJ325: Commending Hybla Valley Elementary School.
HJ431: Commending West Potomac High School.
HJ436: Celebrating the life of Paul Russell.
HJ439: Commending Mount Vernon High School.
HJ440: Commending Bucknell Elementary School.

HB660: Solar photovoltaic power production projects; VDOT to lease space within highway rights-of-way.
HB679: Criminal history information; prohibits sale of person's conviction when record is expunged.
HB1908: Commonwealth Transportation Board; changes composition.
HB1909: Driving under influence of alcohol; defendant's blood or breath tested, exemplary damages.
HB1910: Voter registration; change of address.
HB1911: Judicial Council; directed to report on law clerks used by appellate and circuit courts.
HB1912: Child custody or visitation; issues may be included in single petition in JDRDC.
HB1913: Mechanics' liens; licensed contractors.
HB1914: Criminal history record information; unauthorized sale, publication, etc.
HB1915: Electronic textbooks; prohibits school board from making available for use by students in residence.
HB1916: Income tax, state and corporate; tax credit for solar thermal systems.
HB1917: Electric utilities; renewable thermal energy.
HB1973: Real Estate Board; death or disability of a broker.
HB2011: Urban county executive form of government; abandoned personal property.
HB2321: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; State Corporation Commission subject to Act.
HB2322: Community Colleges, State Board for; Board shall develop mental health referral policies, etc.
HB2323: Motor vehicles; locality may reasonably limit number of title loan businesses, payday lenders, etc.
HJ665: Constitutional amendment; repealing amendment dealing with marriage (first reference).
HJ666: State renewable energy utility; joint subcommittee to study feasibility of establishing.
HJ667: United States Constitution; General Assembly hereby ratifies and affirms Equal Rights Amendment.
HJ668: Constitutional amendment; registration of voters (first reference).
HJ792: Commending Stratford Landing Elementary School.
HJ873: Commending the Honorable Stewart P. Davis.
HJ874: Commending the Honorable Leslie M. Alden.
HJ875: Commending the Honorable Marcus D. Williams.
HJ876: Commending the Alice Ferguson Foundation.
HJ877: Commending Gum Springs.
HJ878: Commending Bethlehem Baptist Church.
HJ950: Commending Washington Mill Elementary School.
HR153: Commending Hollin Hall Senior Center.

HB659: Transportation Board; increases number of members.
HB660: Solar photovoltaic power production projects; VDOT to lease space within highway rights-of-way.
HB661: Workers' compensation benefits; refusal of employment by disabled employee.
HB662: Community Colleges, State Board for; development of mental health services.
HB663: Child care subsidies; time limits.
HB664: Tax credits, state; publication of names on Department of Taxation's website.
HB665: Lobbying and finance disclosure; disclosure of gifts and contributions.
HB666: General Assembly Conflicts of Interests Act; disclosure requirements.
HB667: Political contributions; prohibitions during procurement process.
HB668: Condominium and Property Owners' Association Acts; posting of documents on association website.
HB669: Absentee voting; persons age 65 and older on day of election may vote absentee.
HB670: Voter registration; copy of change of address made at DMV shall be forwarded to Board of Elections.
HB671: Tax administration; awards for detection of tax underpayments.
HB672: Community Solar Gardens; created.
HB673: Protective orders; Allows general distict court to transfer case to appropriate court.
HB674: Protective orders; minor may petition on his own behalf without consent of parent or guardian.
HB675: Grand larceny; increases threshold amount from $200 to $500.
HB676: Child support; interest on arrearage.
HB677: Power of attorney; termination.
HB678: Virginia Consumer Protection Act; local towing ordinances.
HB679: Criminal history information; prohibits sale of person's conviction when record is expunged.
HB680: Driving under influence of alcohol; award of exemplary damages.
HB681: Interest on appeal; computed from date of filing notice of to date appellate court issues mandate.
HB682: Child custody or visitation; issues may be included in single petition in JDRC; etc.
HB683: Courthouses and courtrooms; assessment for security.
HJ114: State renewable energy utility; joint subcommittee to study feasibility of establishing.
HJ115: United States Constitution; General Assembly of Va. to ratify and affirm Equal Rights Amendment.
HJ211: Commending Major Justin Constantine, United States Marine Corps Reserves.
HJ212: Commending Luigi and Anna Maria Tonizzo.
HJ214: Celebrating the life of Gilbert S. McCutcheon.
HJ229: Defined contribution pension; Va. Congressional Delegation urged to oppose for U.S. Armed Forces.
HJ303: Commending Elizabeth Klein.
HJ325: Commending Belle View Elementary School.
HJ326: Commending Ambassador William Green Miller (Ret.).
HJ336: Commending Cynthia N. Hull.
HJ397: Commending Eugene J. Coleman III.
HJ448: Commending Fort Belvoir.
HR4: House of Delegates; recording of standing committee and subcommittee meetings.
HR69: Commending Carolyn Gamble.
HR505: Commending Heritage Presbyterian Church.
HR506: Commending the Mount Vernon Athletic Club.
HR511: Celebrating the life of Adelaide Arthur.

HB822: Child support, etc.; single petition may be filed in juvenile & domestic relations district court.
HB1469: Reckless driving; failing to stop at a school bus.
HB1801: Transportation Board; changes composition.
HB1802: Personal property tax; classification of certain fuel-efficient motor vehicles.
HB1803: Contractors, Board for; provides for certification of home energy auditors.
HB1804: House of Delegates; digital recordings of meetings of standing committees and subcommittees.
HB1805: Tax administration; awards for detection of tax underpayments.
HB1806: Award of credit; Board of Education to provide an elective credit for applied music study of piano.
HB1807: Child custody, etc.; single petition may be filed in juvenile & domestic relations district court.
HB1808: Arrearages; payments collected by DSS shall be applied first to interest associated with arrearage.
HB1809: Attorneys for State and their assistants; duties.
HB1810: Grand larceny; increases threshold amount of money or value of goods.
HB1811: Child care services; DSS to identify strategies to increase reimbursement rates.
HB2459: Absentee voting; persons age 65 and older will be entitled.
HB2460: Political contributions; prohibition during procurement process, penalty.
HJ603: U.S. Route 1 Corridor; joint subcommittee to study creation of Corridor.
HJ604: Constitutional amendment; repeal of state law or regulation by localities (first reference).
HJ905: Commending the Sherwood Regional Library.
HJ914: Commending Jeff Todd.
HJ957: Commending Walt Whitman Middle School on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.

HB818: Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB); composition.
HB819: Business entities; when referring to service of process includes any subpoena, summons, etc.
HB820: Cigarette tax; penalties for unstamped cigarettes.
HB821: Child custody; record of in camera interview.
HB822: Child support, etc.; single petition may be filed in juvenile & domestic relations district court.
HB823: District court; expungement of police and court records.
HB824: Melendez-Diaz notice; 6th Amendment rights to be given to an accused who is proceeding pro se.
HB825: Civil or criminal actions; allows circuit court clerks to establish electronic filing.
HB826: Electronic summons system; locality to assess an additional sum in district or circuit court.
HB827: Electronic recording of court proceedings; circuit & district court clerks have system in courtroom.
HB828: Larceny; increases threshold amount of goods that determines petit larceny to grand larceny.
HB829: Expert witnesses; extends application of two evidentiary statutes applicable in certain cases.
HB830: Food and beverage tax; adds Fairfax County to those that may impose.
HB831: Public Procurement Act; foreign & domestic businesses authorized to transact business in State.
HB832: Absentee voting; requires election results for central absentee voter precinct to indicate precinct.
HB833: Asbestos, Lead, Mold, and Home Inspectors, Board for; regulation of home energy auditors.
HB1262: Absentee voting procedures; deletes certain requirements.
HJ119: Route 1 Corridor; joint subcommittee to study creation thereof.
HJ430: Commending Ventures Outreach, New Hope Housing and the Rising Hope United Methodist Mission church.
HJ431: Commending West Potomac High School on the occasion of its 25th anniversary.
HJ432: Commending the agencies, companies, organizations, and people who assisted Virginians in the afterma

Newest Comments

SB1339: Expungement and sealing of police and court records; Expungement Fee Fund created.
BilltheThrill writes: More un-crime bills. Will you resign when crime goes up?
SB5032: Assault and battery; penalty.
James E. McGrail writes: Finger tip --- full hand --- fist --- knife --- gun --- Hang the "Punk A** Bums" ! No brakes at all !!! They show zero ...
SB5032: Assault and battery; penalty.
Waldo Jaquith writes: If you don't understand the difference between assault and battery, you should not be a law enforcement officer. It is...
SB5032: Assault and battery; penalty.
justin rodriguez writes: As a LEO myself, let me make sure that I understand this correctly. If I am assaulted, and there's no "real injury"...WT...
SB5032: Assault and battery; penalty.
teresa champion writes: Please read the bill. The way it passed the Senate- It didn't de-felonize assault of LEO, but it: 1) removed the mandat...

Sen. Scott Surovell (D-Mount Vernon)

Richmond.com: Virginia Senate committee backs bill to abolish the death penalty

WFXRtv.com: Police: Man in custody in Virginia after Florida kidnapping

8News: Bill to abolish the death penalty in Virginia passes Senate Judiciary Committee

WFXRtv.com: Gun-rights group that brought thousands to Richmond for Lobby Day last year returns

The Virginian-Pilot: Opinion: Virginia should seize this moment to abolish the death penaltyThe Virginian-Pilot

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