While many commenters have strong opinions regarding mask mandates, I wanted to take a moment to say thank-you to the many experts and officials who carefully consider infectious diseases, worker safety, and minimizing risk.  

I believe the Virginia regulations and recommendations are based on scientific evidence, proven epidemiology and public health concerns.  As a small business owner, I appreciate, follow and adhere to the local, state and Federal recommendations.  It makes sense.  

The only possible quibble we have seen in the pandemic is the tremendous difference in population density between the "Golden Crescent" area of the Commonwealth versus the rural Appalachian area where my business of 24 employees is located.  Rules that are passed to minimize public transportation congestion or crowded workplaces make sense in high-density areas, but not when there are a total of 10 people in a 50,000 square foot office, or when a typical workday involves no less than 50 feet of space between me and the small handful of people I might see in a typical work day. 

The solution is local authority to adjust mandates based on known conditions, current risks and predictive trends.  In Montgomery County, Virginia, we have been blessed with an outstanding public health department that tirelessly worked nights and weekends to keep our community safe and well-informed.  Please continue to empower localities to do what makes sense for our Commonwealth.

Thank you! 

Henry Bass, owner, Automation Creations, Inc.

2020 Kraft Drive, Suite 3000

Blacksburg, VA 24060