March 31, 2020

Rep. Zupkus: UPDATE: Federal Response to Coronavirus in Connecticut

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Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I wanted to share with you some new information regarding Connecticut’s recent approval of Federal Disaster Assistance and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).

Connecticut Approved for Federal Disaster Assistance

Yesterday, Governor Lamont announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) had approved his recent request for a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of Connecticut in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This approval will aid Connecticut’s state agencies and municipalities by reimbursing 75% of the costs associated with their response and emergency protective measures.

Another request for assistance to aid with the expansion of unemployment assistance, food benefits, and child care, remains under review. To read his statement, click here.

Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act)

On Friday, President Donald Trump signed the CARES act into law. This act will provide trillions of dollars in economic relief for individuals, families, businesses and hospitals. This legislation expands the disaster assistance loans to businesses with options for forgiveness; expands eligibility for unemployment insurance; designates billions more in assistance for distressed states and municipalities; and provides up to $1,200 to individuals and $2,400
to families.

To read more on how this impacts you, click here.

In addition, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has also created a webpage highlighting the provisions of the CARES Act that pertain to small businesses

They have also put together a COVID-19 Coverage Resource & Relief Info for Small Businesses. To view the resource page, click here.

To read more information about the major programs and initiatives that will soon be available from the Small Business Administration, click here.

To keep up to date on when these programs become available, click here.

As a reminder, the state continues to maintain a web portal with the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, as well as a Frequently Asked Questions document that is updated regularly.

I also provide regular updates on Facebook and will continue to provide updates as this public health emergency changes. In the meantime, I welcome hearing from you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out by phone 860-240-8700 or email Lezlye.Zupkus@housegop.ct.gov.

In closing, please stay safe and stay home. Together we can flatten the curve.