RICHMOND, Va. -- As COVID-19 cases continue to rise in some states, Governor Ralph Northam has decided bar seating will remain prohibited in restaurants when Phase Three begins Wednesday, July 1.
The governor says the decision was made to reduce the likelihood of patrons gathering in bar areas without observing social distancing guidelines.
“I am watching what is happening in other states—we are taking a cautious approach as we enter Phase Three and maintaining the current restrictions on bar areas,” said Governor Northam.
“In Virginia, our hospitalization rates have fallen, our percentage of positive tests continues to trend downward, and we are conducting more than 10,000 tests each day. We want these trends to continue, but if our public health metrics begin moving in the wrong direction, I will not hesitate to take action to protect the health and safety of our communities.”
Under the governor's order, restaurants may still use non-bar seating in the bar area, as long as a minimum of six feet between tables is provided.