Friend,

On Monday, I requested data from Governor Northam on the percent of positive test results in the City of Richmond. Yesterday, I received that data, which showed Richmond’s percent positivity has increased over the past two weeks, rather than decreased. In light of this new data and our need to prioritize the health and safety of our residents, I requested an exemption from the planned Phase One re-opening that began today. Governor Northam granted our request yesterday afternoon and current restrictions will continue until at least May 28th.

Announcement from Governor Northam >> [link removed]

Latest COVID-19 data >> [link removed]

To be clear, I want to re-open our city but only when there are adequate protections in place for our most vulnerable communities. Richmond's dense urban environment and COVID-19's disparate impact on our Black and Brown communities merits a unique response from the surrounding counties.

With the data we have available to us right now, we can't safely conclude that the curve is flattening in Richmond. I cannot justify risking the health and safety of Richmond residents by moving forward with Phase One until we are certain it's safe.

To help us move in the right direction, I requested three things from the governor:

1. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) expands COVID-19 testing capacity in the City of Richmond.

2. VDH works with our business community to trace and monitor those who have been exposed to COVID-19.

3. Virginia makes it a requirement that Virginians must wear a face covering while in a public space or visiting an essential business.

You can see my requests here >> [link removed]

I know this crisis has not been easy on residents or our business community. It’s my hope that delaying our entry into Phase One will give local and state officials much-needed time to continue to increase testing and contact tracing in the city and avoid or soften the impact of a “second wave.”

I will continue to collaborate with state and local agencies to make sure our community is supported and protected.

Stay home and stay strong,

Levar

P.S. Countless organizations are working hard every day to support our community during this crisis. If you are able, your support right now will make a huge impact:

• Frontline Foods: [link removed]
• The Community Foundation for Greater Richmond: [link removed]
• The Holli Fund: [link removed]
• Red Cross Blood Bank: [link removed]






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