Capitol Update 4.10.2020
Schools and “Non-Essential” Business Closure Extended
Governor Lamont released an executive order extending the closure of Connecticut’s public schools and continuing restrictions on in-person non-essential business until May, 20th. However, as new information and data becomes available on COVID-19 the state may extend the policy to an even later date. Read More
Unemployment Insurance Filing Questions
The Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL) has issued a shorter FAQ document to specifically answer unemployment insurance filing questions. This document includes contact phone numbers for workforce partner agencies that can help provide basic information about unemployment benefits.
Avoiding Fraud and Scams
The Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) issued a statement warning Connecticut residents of faux ‘work from home’ employment schemes. In addition, DCP has issued warnings about potential profiteering schemes, false charity scams, and phishing attacks.
The DCP has created a resource page with information and instructions on how to report incidences of potential fraud.
Workplace Safety
As part of the state’s effort to limit the spread of the coronavirus outbreak, Governor Lamont has issued a number of executive orders to ensure workplace safety for workers and customers. These executive orders include “Stay Safe, Stay Home” which mandated the closure of in-person non-essential business and “Safe Stores” which mandated social distancing procedures in retail establishments. His latest order issued earlier this week outlined “Safe Workplace” rules for those essential employers that remain open.
Below are a few key examples of the mandated guidelines:
- Essential employees who are able to work from home should be working from home.
- Eliminate all non-essential workplace travel.
- Control access to external visitors.
- Develop and implement practices for social distancing.
- Eliminate in-person meetings.
- Deliver products through curbside pick-up or delivery (when possible)
The full guidelines are available from the Department of Economic and Community Development: Safe Workplace Rules
Resources for Small Business
Yesterday, state agencies including representatives from the Department of Economic and Community Development, the Insurance Department, the Department of Banking, and the Small Business Administration held a conference call with small business owners to discuss the coronavirus outbreak and resources for economic recovery. Listen to the call below: Click Here.
Resources for Women and Minority Owned Businesses
The Hartford Economic Development Corporation (HEDCO) has partnered with the State of Connecticut, the CT Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD) and the CT Minority Business Initiative to provide financial relief to Connecticut minority-owned and women-owned small businesses negatively impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Under this COVID-19 Business Response Program, a qualifying small business with 20 or fewer employees may apply for a potentially forgivable zero-interest Line of Credit for up to $20,000 to provide working capital. Learn More
Grants for Manufacturing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The Connecticut Manufacturing Innovation Fund Voucher Program (MVP) recently announced a new grant program of up to $75,000 for manufacturers that expand or realign production to meet critical needs for medical equipment and supplies. Needed supplies include, but are not limited to, eye protection, face shields, isolation gowns, face masks and respirators. Apply Here
Stay in Touch
The Legislative Office Building and State Capitol will continue to be closed until April 23rd. During this time legislators and staff will continue to work from home. Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions you may have about the state’s coronavirus response or issues working with state agencies.