RICHMOND, Va. (WSET) -- The number of coronavirus cases in the Commonwealth continues to rise daily and Gov. Northam made announcements Wednesday that he said will continue to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Virginia.
He announced an extension of Executive Order 53, which closed restaurant dining rooms, entertainment and recreational businesses, and non-essential retail businesses who could not adhere to social distancing until April 23.
The updated order will now close those businesses for an two weeks, until May 8.
Northam said barbershops and salons are at the top of the list for businesses to be allowed to reopen as restrictions are eased in the future, but he said, "We're not there yet."
He said that Virginians will need to get used a new normal, which includes spending more time at home, teleworking, and wearing face coverings. Gov. Northam said we need to make sure Virginia's most vulnerable are taken care of before he starts easing restrictions.
Gov. Northam also announced a $70 million federal grant that will be used to help childcare facilities across Virginia stay open.
He said schools will be prepared to be an emergency center for children in need, especially those of healthcare workers and those working on the frontlines. If you need childcare because you have to work an essential job, First Lady Pamela Northam announced a website for an up-to-date list for where you can find childcare in your area.
More on this story from our media partner, ABC 13 - WSET.