Virginia Governor Wants to Reimburse Violators Who Defied Pandemic Rules

Virginia’s governor said last week he wants the state to reimburse individuals and businesses that were fined for violating COVID-19 pandemic restrictions intended to prevent spread of the disease.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin called the fines “unjust.”?

He issued an executive order telling state agencies to report fines or suspensions they imposed under the administration of his predecessor, Ralph Northam. Youngkin is a Republican while Northam is a Democrat.

Youngkin introduced two annual budget amendments this week to remedy what he said were the wrongs of pandemic restrictions.

One would halt fines and enforcement action. The other would compel the state to reimburse persons who were fined previously.

Fines for violating health and safety rules of health care facilities, such as hospitals and nursing homes, would not be eligible for reimbursement.

“The fact that businesses are still dealing with COVID-19 related penalties and fines is infuriating. Livelihoods are on the line,” Youngkin said in a statement. “While we can’t undo the damage done during the Northam administration, we are taking action going forward to end COVID-era draconian overreach.”

Democrats pushed back against Youngkin, saying Northam had made Virginia one of the nation’s safest states against COVID-19 with the health restrictions he imposed.

Youngkin made his announcement as controversy continues over pandemic enforcement action against Spotsylvania County restaurant Gourmeltz, which defied the restrictions. It was closed for 90 days by court order. It also became a popular point of contention for Republicans who agreed with the restaurant owner’s refusal to follow the restrictions.

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