Capitol Update 4.23.2020
Update from the Department of Labor
The Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL) continues to work through record numbers of unemployment insurance claims, so far 293,000 claims have been processed by the agency. Below is an update from the agency on their efforts and helpful information for those with claims and information about federal stimulus unemployment programs.
Relief for Impacted Student Loan Borrowers
Under a new initiative through the Department of Banking (DOB), Connecticut residents with commercially owned Federal Family Education Loan Programs or privately held student loans who are struggling to make their payments due to the COVID-19 pandemic will be eligible for expanded relief. Borrowers in need of assistance should immediately contact their student loan servicer to identify the options that are appropriate to their circumstances. More info, including a list of loan servicers providing relief through this initiative, can be found here:
Increasing the State’s Testing Capacity
On Tuesday, Governor Lamont announced a new partnership with Hartford Healthcare and Quest Diagnostics to significantly expand the state’s coronavirus testing capacity. The initiative will increase the number of tests from 500 per day to 2,500 per day.
Medication Shortages
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP)’s Drug Control Division has assembled guidance for consumers about maintaining an adequate supply of medical products during the pandemic. Additionally, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) maintains a website tracking shortages with the latest information from manufacturers.
Resources for Persons with Disabilities
The state has added a directory on the coronavirus resource website that contains links to resources, tools and information for individuals with disabilities and those who work with this community.
Capitol Closure Extended
Legislative leaders have announced that the General Assembly will not reconvene before the end of the legislative session on May 6th. A special session will be called at a later date to address necessary legislative issues. During this time legislators and staff continue to work from home and actively provide constituent services.
Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions you may have about the state’s coronavirus response or issues working with state agencies.