Coronavirus Update: Recovery Bridge Loan Program and More
Dear neighbors,
Here are some important updates for Connecticut residents, families, and businesses pertaining to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.
Connecticut Recovery Bridge Loan Program
The state’s Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) has created a $25 million short-term loan program for Connecticut businesses that are struggling as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. These interest-free loans of up to $75,000 are available to businesses that employ no more than 100 people, and they must be repaid within a year. A six month extension may be granted upon request.
For more information on the program, eligibility requirements, the application process, and a Q&A document, click here.
To complete an application, click here.
FAQ Document from the Connecticut Department of Labor
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the CT Department of Labor (DOL) has seen a record number of applications for unemployment assistance. While the state works to respond to requests, the DOL encourages applicants to check out its live FAQ document, which is frequently updated with information and resources for unemployment benefits.
To view the FAQ document, click here.
School Closure Extension and Room & Board Refunds
Governor Lamont has ordered Connecticut public schools to remain closed until at least April 20th.
For all the executive orders issued by the governor and state agencies, click here.
The Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system, including the University of Connecticut, announced that the universities will credit student accounts for unused room and board by next week. Thereafter, any credit balance will be refunded to students. CSCU stated that its institutions will not refund tuition and fees because they are converting to an online instruction model for the remainder of the term in order to complete the coursework students have begun this semester.
Additional Resources
As a reminder, these are the best resource pages from our federal, state and local governments that are updated regularly:
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Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC): Click Here
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State of Connecticut Web Portal: Click Here
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FAQ Document from Governor’s Office: Click Here
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Town of New Canaan: Click Here
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Town of Wilton: Click Here
As always, I will provide more updates as I receive new information. Please reach out to me if you have questions or concerns about our state and local response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), or any state government matter. I am more than happy to speak with you directly, provide more information if possible, and to serve as a resource for you and your families.
Email: Tom.ODea@housegop.ct.gov
Best,
State Representative Tom O’Dea
125th General Assembly District
New Canaan & Wilton