COVID-19 Connecticut Capitol Update 3-26-2020
- The Governor established an online web portal of resources for businesses, consumers, and others during this public health crisis. Visit www.ct.gov/coronavirus for more information.
- As of March 25, 2020, a total of 875 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported. The virus has appeared in all 8 counties, approximately 113 patients are hospitalized, and 19 residents have passed away. More than 5,898 tests have been conducted so far.
- A full breakdown of those cases can be found here.
- The State Capitol complex will remain closed through at least April 12, 2020. During this time all committee meetings and public hearings have been suspended.
- Governor Lamont has issued a total of 15 executive orders since March 10, 2020.
- Several orders have also been issued by the Departments of Public Health, Consumer Protection, Insurance, Health Strategy, Motor Vehicles, Revenue Services, Transportation and the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority—which can also be found here.
- Last night, Governor Lamont signed Executive Order No 7M, which:
- Extends certain statutory deadlines for state agencies by 90 days;
- Suspends mandatory filing requirements for FOIA requests; and
- Suspends 90-day requirement for approving encroachment permits.
- All “non-essential” businesses were ordered to stay closed through, at least, April 22, 2020 except for the minimum staffing that’s needed to maintain security, maintenance, and to receive mail/packages.
- The Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) released formal guidance on businesses that are considered “essential” and are allowed to stay open during the public health crisis.
- Industries that are not listed, but wish to be considered for qualification as an “essential” business, can submit an inquiry to DECD here.
- This morning, Governor Lamont announced details for a small business bridge loan program that he expects to launch either today or tomorrow. Details include:
- $25 million total funding;
- Maximum loan will be $75,000, zero interest;
- Capped at 3 months of total operating expenses;
- 18-month repayment terms;
- Designed for companies with 100 or less employees; and
- Additional details will be released for programs that support companies with up to 500 employees.
- Mobile field hospitals have been erected by the National Guard at Saint Francis Hospital in Hartford and Danbury Hospital, adding an additional 25 hospital bed capacity at each facility.
- The State is seeking donations of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Those interested in donating may do so via www.211ct.org/DonationsCovid19.
- Governor Lamont is expected to release details this week for a new charitable fund launched in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis called “ForCT.”
- For information on applying for Unemployment Insurance, please refer to the Department of Labor’s website, here.
- For additional business resources during this COVID-19 public health crisis, please refer to DECD’s website, here.
