Setting aside the innumerable questions regarding the efficacy of infection control with the use of face coverings, there is no evidence of an actual emergency that would authorize this emergency regulation. The mere presence of a novel virus is not an emergency; such occurrences happen with great regularity. If human reaction to a new virus reaches the level at which civil order is jeopardized then an actual emergency will exist and the matter can be addressed. In the meantime, a mere 7% increase in the usual number of deaths in Virginia does not constitute an emergency and no emergency regulations should be promulgated. (https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nvss/vsrr/covid19/index.htm)
Please withdraw this proposed regulation.