SOME OF THE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ADDRESSED BY THE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE REGARDING GOVERNOR NORTHAM’S EXECUTIVE

ORDER 53 ISSUED MARCH 23, 2020

When does this order go into effect? What areas of the state are covered?

The order is in effect from Tuesday, March 24, 2020 at 11:59 PM until Thursday, April 23 at 11:59 PM. It applies to the entire Commonwealth of Virginia.

Will this order be changed?

 

            Governor Northam, in consultation with State Health Commissioner Oliver, may adjust this order or issue new orders as needed, given the quickly-changing public health situation.

Can I leave my house?

            Yes. However, Governor Northam is urging Virginians to limit all non-essential travel outside the home, if and when possible. If you choose to go to the park, for a walk, or exercise outside, please practice strict social distancing and keep six feet apart from others. All public and private gatherings of more than 10 people [PGAMA Note: Employment settings are not considered gatherings for purposes of Executive Order 53] are banned.

 

Are you limiting interstate travel:

 

            No. Our roads and highways will remain open to move essential personnel and critical supplies.

Are there restrictions for any other categories of business?

            All other categories of business [PGAMA NOTE: We believe Virginia printers fall in this classification for purposes of Executive Order 53] should utilize teleworking as much as possible. Where telework is not feasible, such businesses must adhere to social distancing recommendations, enhanced sanitizing practices on common surfaces, and other appropriate workplace guidance from state and federal authorities while in operation.

            The following sources provide workplace guidance for operations that remain open:

• CDC Guidance: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/organizations/business-empoyers.html

• OSHA Guidance: https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3990.pdf

• Virginia Department of Labor and Industry Guidance:

https://www.doli.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Coronovirus-Hazard-Alert.pdf

Do I still have to pay taxes?

            Yes. Businesses impacted by COVID-19 can also request to defer the payment of state sales tax due, 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 Virginia Department of Taxation has extended the due date of payment of Virginia individual 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.

I have to lay off employees. Will I be penalized when they apply for unemployment benefits?

 

            Regional workforce teams have been 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.

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