COVID-19 Connecticut Capitol Update 3-27-2020
- 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 26, 2020, a total of 1,012 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported. The virus has appeared in all 8 counties, approximately 125 patients are hospitalized, and 21 residents have passed away. Approximately 6,500 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 16 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 7N, which:
- Effective through April 30, 2020, limits social gatherings to no more than 5 people;
- Places limitations on payment and pickup options to touchless methods whenever possible;
- Requires “essential businesses” to take reasonable measures to ensure a 6-foot social distance among customers;
- Restricts firearm sales to only be conducted by appointment;
- Implements a temporary suspension on the 10-cent tax for single-use plastic bags;
- Permits grocery store employees to no longer be required to bag items in reusable bags;
- Suspends the 21-month limit on temporary family assistance; and
- Suspends school testing assessments for the 2019-2020 school year.
- 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.
- The Connecticut Recovery Bridge Loan Program is now accepting applications from small businesses who need assistance with cash flow during the COVID-19 pandemic. Interested businesses may apply here. 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
- 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.
- The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has launched the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Assistance program and interested businesses can apply here.
