Welcome to today’s edition of the Dogwood. We’ve got a round-up of today’s Virginia news coming right up.
But first…
Virginia distilleries are doing their part by donating hand sanitizers to first responders and healthcare workers in need. — WHSV
Five Things You Need to Know Today
- Virginia Coronavirus Cases Now to 5,747- The Virginia Department of Health reports over 5,000 cases of the coronavirus statewide. With 5,747 positive cases, this past weekend saw the state’s largest one-day increase for two days in a row. According to the VDH, 41,401 people have been tested in Virginia, approximately 13% of the population tested in total. There are 149 reported deaths. — WHSV
- Gov. Northam Signs a Litany of Progressive Bills Into Law– Gov. Ralph Northam signed a multiple of progressive bills into law this past weekend. Laws establishing greater gun safety, strengthening voting rights, protecting women’s health and more are now law. We have a comprehensive guide here. — Dogwood
- UVA Model of Social Distancing is Working, According to Officials- In a press conference Monday, Gov. Ralph Northam said the University of Virginia’s social distancing model appears to be accurate. He said that if Virginians continue to follow these measures, Virginia hospitals should be able to handle the number of coronavirus cases in the state. If not, the state’s peak will be higher and happen sooner, potentially overwhelming hospitals. — WAVY
- Northam Seeks to Delay Minimum Wage Hike Due to the Coronavirus- Gov. Ralph Northam proposed an amendment to a bill that increases minimum wage, delaying the raise for several months. Northam said the economic uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic made it necessary to delay the increase from January to May. Workers’ rights advocates urged the governor to sign without the delay. — Dogwood
- Seven Inmates Who Worked in Cafe at Correctional Facility Have COVID-19- Seven inmates at a Central Virginia Correctional Facility #13 who tested positive for coronavirus all reportedly worked for the facility’s cafe. According to a department spokesman, none of the departments 740 employees tested positive for the virus. However, the department reported 11 women at the field unit testing positive for the virus.– Richmond Times-Dispatch
