Virginia needs a strong, PERMANENT workplace health and safety standard.  The Covid-19 pandemic will outlast the current temporary standard.  To address the economic problems created by Covid, protecting everyone in the Commonwealth against it to the greatest possible extent is essential.  In the long run, protecting people's health will save money and increase productivity. 

The proposed standard provides strong protections for workers as well as clear guidance for employers. It will help get Virginia's economy moving again because it will help prevent the Covid-19's spread.  Without addressing the health crisis, the economy will continue to stagnate. Protecting workers health and safety saves money in the long run because when people can't work, they require social assistance.