ALEXANDRIA, Va.—In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government has issued guidelines specifying what is classified as essential and non-essential businesses. However, the decision regarding which businesses can remain open and which must be closed during times of crises is ultimately made by each state government. To obtain information about what is classified as essential and non-essential businesses in your state, as well as other updates, optical businesses can go to the Coronavirus Implications section of The Vision Council’s website.

These requirements are subject to change as the status of the COVID-19 pandemic is changing day-to-day. To help guide its members, The Vision Council has collected links to refer to each state’s current requirements, executive orders and additional information for businesses. For access to information for each state's business operations and updates, members can click on the state links.

On the Coronavirus Implications section, information and links are also available for shipping delays, travel restrictions, CDC health care guidelines for optical retail and eyecare providers, and a listing of industry events that have been canceled due to the pandemic.

In addition, The Vision Council has released COVID-19 related research reports ranging from consumer intent to member and ECP reactions. For the most recent reports, visit their research storefront.