COVID-19 Response Update

As we navigate these uncharted waters, I will continue to provide you with additional resources for businesses and residents.

Paycheck Protection Program

The Paycheck Protection Program is a federal program to provide forgivable loans. Banks will begin accepting applications on Friday, April 3rd. The program is administered by the US Department of Treasury. For more information you can click here.

This program is aimed specifically at small businesses with 500 or fewer employees. This includes eligible for-profit, not-for-profit entities, independent contractors, and self-employed individuals among others.

Application Information:

• Participating banks will accept and process applications.
• Call your bank or use the SBA Lender Match tool.
• You can also contact your Small Business Development Center or Women’s Business Center.

Here is a link to the application.

Safe Stores

In an Executive Order signed by Gov. Lamont last evening, beginning on Friday, April 3, every retail establishment in the state will take additional protective measures to limit the risk of transmitting COVID-19. Some of the new protocols include an occupancy cap of only up to 50% of store capacity, clearly marked 6′ spaces at checkout lines, and the installation of plexiglass shields at the cash registers.

To review all of the new store safety rules, click here.

CARES Act

The “CARES Act” is another new federal law designed to offer relief in response to the economic disruption caused by the coronavirus outbreak. The Department of Economic and Community Development has put together a guide to help small businesses navigate the programs.

To access the guide, click here

Please stay healthy and safe!

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