COVID-19 Update – May 19

State Prepares for First Phase of Business Reopenings on May 20

Beginning tomorrow, May 20, some businesses will be allowed to open, including restaurants with outdoor seating, offices, outdoor museums and zoos, and retail shops and malls.

Please click here for sector-by-sector guides on reopening.

Unfortunately, barber shops and hair salons, originally to be part of the May 20 reopenings, were withdrawn from Phase 1 in an announcement by Governor Lamont yesterday, citing concerns expressed by some shop owners and stylists. This came as a surprise to many but, despite the late notice, I believe the governor’s decision was based on an overriding abundance of concern for public health. Hopefully we’ll collaboratively satisfy these concerns in time for a June 3, 2020 second try.

DECD Launches Resource Page for Small Businesses

The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) has launched a resource page for small businesses preparing to reopen. This page is your “one-stop shop” for guidelines, best hygiene practices, and other reopening resources.

Please click here to access the page.

Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application is Now Available

The US Small Business Administration (SBA) has published the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan forgiveness application. Please note that all borrowers applying for forgiveness should submit this application directly to their lenders.

As a reminder, borrowers are eligible for full loan forgiveness if the funds are used for payroll costs, interest on mortgage rent, and utilities.

Please click here to access the forgiveness application form.

Governor Lamont Sign Executive Order 7PP

Governor Lamont yesterday issued his latest emergency executive order. Here are some highlights, subject to modification at any time:

• Extends restrictions on large gatherings, indoor gyms, and movie theaters until June 20;
• Precludes day camps from beginning operations until June 22;
• Prohibits summer school programs from beginning prior to July 6; and
• Cancels overnight and resident camp operations for the duration of the public health emergency declaration.

Federal Stimulus Still Being Distributed: Are You Waiting & Wondering?

I still hear from folks with concerns about not having received their federal stimulus payments and even though the IRS is not a state agency, I’d like to remind you that IRS maintains a site where you can check your status:

https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus-tax-relief-and-economic-impact-payments

Once there, look for the “Check Your Payment Status” link. If you filed a 2019 or 2018 federal tax return, click the “FILERS” button then, “Get My Payment”, enter your taxpayer information and click OK. This should display your status or ask you to update your direct deposit information.  If you did not file a federal return for 2019 or 2018, click the “Non-Filer” button and follow the instructions.