The President has approved Governor Northam’s request to declare Virginia a major disaster area because of COVID-19. Currently the commonwealth has 1,706 cases of coronavirus, with a total of 246 hospitalizations and 41 deaths.
From the Patch.com:
The disaster declaration opens up federal assistance throughout all parts of the state affected by the new coronavirus at a federal cost share of 75 percent. This allows state agencies, local governments, and some non-profit organizations to buy supplies and be reimbursed for coronavirus-related costs. In addition, the major disaster declaration authorizes federal agencies to provide direct emergency assistance to Virginia.
Northam requested the federal disaster assistance on March 30.
“We thank the federal government for moving quickly to approve Virginia’s request for a major disaster declaration,” Northam said. “This critical funding will support our ongoing, statewide efforts to fight this virus in our Commonwealth and keep Virginians safe.”
On March 27, the Commonwealth received authorization for Title 32 funding to support the Virginia National Guard.
On March 30th Governor Northam ordered the lockdown of all Virginia residents and non-essential businesses until at least June 10th.