COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS 2019
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2019-nCoV (Coronavirus) is a virus that causes the COVID-19 respiratory illness. It was first detected in Wuhan, China. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it’s unclear how easily or sustainably this virus is spreading between people. Typically, respiratory viruses are most contagious when an individual is most symptomatic, but there have been reports of the virus spreading when the affected individual does not show any symptoms.
An outbreak of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has spread throughout China and to 185 other countries and territories, including the United States. There are now confirmed cases in all 50 states. |
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LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES
4/20/2020
GOVERNOR LAMONT REQUIRES CLOTH FACE COVERINGS EFFECTIVE 8 PM TONIGHT
On Friday, April 17, Governor Ned Lamont signed Executive Order No. 7BB requiring all people in public places that are not able to maintain safe distances to wear a cloth face covering or higher. People must also wear face coverings when using transit (bus, train, taxi, etc.) In that executive order, he also required the commissioner of DECD to update the Safe Workplace rules and Safe Store rules to reflect this change.
Beginning at 8 pm on Monday, April 20, all employees are required to wear face coverings in the workplace.
Masks or Cloth Face Coverings Required
GOVERNOR LAMONT REQUIRES CLOTH FACE COVERINGS EFFECTIVE 8 PM TONIGHT
On Friday, April 17, Governor Ned Lamont signed Executive Order No. 7BB requiring all people in public places that are not able to maintain safe distances to wear a cloth face covering or higher. People must also wear face coverings when using transit (bus, train, taxi, etc.) In that executive order, he also required the commissioner of DECD to update the Safe Workplace rules and Safe Store rules to reflect this change.
Beginning at 8 pm on Monday, April 20, all employees are required to wear face coverings in the workplace.
Masks or Cloth Face Coverings Required
- Each employee shall be required to wear a mask or other cloth material that covers his or her mouth and nose at all times while in the workplace. Employers shall issue such masks or cloth face coverings to their employees. In the event an employer is unable to provide masks or cloth face coverings to employees because of shortages or supply chain difficulties, employers must provide the materials and CDC tutorial about how to create a cloth face covering, or compensate employees for the reasonable and necessary costs employees expend on such materials to make their own masks or cloth face covering.
- Nothing in these rules shall require the use of a mask or cloth face covering by anyone for whom doing so would be contrary to his or her health or safety because of a medical condition.
- If a person declines to wear a mask or cloth face covering because of a medical condition as described above, such person shall not be required to produce medical documentation verifying the stated condition.
4/9/2020
GOVERNOR LAMONT ADDRESSES UNEMPLOYMENT RATING AND EXTENDS LIQUOR PERMITS
Governor Lamont signed Executive Order No. 7W today which includes the following:
4/6/2020
CohnReznick Webinar: Obtaining COVID-19 Relief
As businesses manage through the uncertainty of COVID-19, there are options for leaders to seek financial relief, enhance liquidity, and preserve company value. However, navigating the array of options and understanding which relief packages apply to your company can be challenging. WATCH WEBINAR HERE.
4/3/2020
GOVERNOR LAMONT ALLOWS DELIVERY BY RESTAURANTS
Effective Immediately
Pursuant to Executive Order 7G and 7T, the Department of Consumer Protection issues the following rules and procedures for the sale of alcoholic liquor for pick-up and delivery to a customer for all permit types presently allowed to offer pick-up and delivery:
4/2/2020
GOVERNOR LAMONT MODIFIES MAXIMUM PERIOD OF CREDIT FOR LIQUOR PERMITEES
Extension of 30-day period of credit for liquor permittees: Executive Order 7S modifies state law to permit the maximum period of credit for liquor permittees from certain creditors, including wholesalers and manufacturers, to be 90 days after the date of delivery for all permittees prohibited from engaging in on-premise sales per Executive Order No. 7D.
Further Explanation of Executive Order 7s:
4/6/2020
CohnReznick Webinar: Obtaining COVID-19 Relief
As businesses manage through the uncertainty of COVID-19, there are options for leaders to seek financial relief, enhance liquidity, and preserve company value. However, navigating the array of options and understanding which relief packages apply to your company can be challenging. WATCH WEBINAR HERE.
4/3/2020
GOVERNOR LAMONT ALLOWS DELIVERY BY RESTAURANTS
Effective Immediately
Pursuant to Executive Order 7G and 7T, the Department of Consumer Protection issues the following rules and procedures for the sale of alcoholic liquor for pick-up and delivery to a customer for all permit types presently allowed to offer pick-up and delivery:
4/2/2020
GOVERNOR LAMONT MODIFIES MAXIMUM PERIOD OF CREDIT FOR LIQUOR PERMITEES
Extension of 30-day period of credit for liquor permittees: Executive Order 7S modifies state law to permit the maximum period of credit for liquor permittees from certain creditors, including wholesalers and manufacturers, to be 90 days after the date of delivery for all permittees prohibited from engaging in on-premise sales per Executive Order No. 7D.
Further Explanation of Executive Order 7s:
4/1/2020
NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION RESOURCES
The National Restaurant Association has updated their COVID-19 Resources and have a CARES Act Resource page.
SBA ECONOMIC INJURY DISASTER LOAN UPDATES
EIDL updated their application system to ensure accessibility. To apply for the loan, CLICK HERE.
CARES Act: Employee Retention Tax CreditThe employee retention tax credit (ERTC) for employers subject to closure due to coronavirus. The provision provides a refundable payroll tax credit for 50% of wages paid by employers to employees during the crisis. The credit is available to employers whose
Click here to read more about what the CARES Act offers for restaurant owners and operators.
3/31/2020
APPLICATION INFORMATION RELEASED FOR PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM
The Treasury Department just released initial guidance for the SBA's Paycheck Protection Program. Eligible small businesses can begin applying for these loans beginning April 3, 2020. Our national partners have already submitted questions to the SBA seeking clarity on the following issues:
In the interim, we urge members preparing to submit a loan application to work expediently in order to submit the application to their SBA approved lender on Friday, April 3, 2020.
3/30/2020
Governor Ned Lamont and DRS Announce Deferment of Sales Tax Payment
Sales Tax Deferred For Businesses that Reported
$150,000 or Less in 2019 Sales TaxAt the direction of Governor Lamont to provide Connecticut small businesses with immediate administrative tax relief in recognition of the impact of COVID-19, the Department of Revenue Services (DRS) today announced that it granting a two-month extension of filing and payment deadlines for certain small businesses. READ THE PRESS RELEASE HERE.
GOVERNOR LAMONT ADDRESSES UNEMPLOYMENT RATING AND EXTENDS LIQUOR PERMITS
Governor Lamont signed Executive Order No. 7W today which includes the following:
- No increased experience rating based on COVID-19 unemployment claims: Modifies state laws surrounding the requirement for employers to be charged an “experience rating” so their unemployment premiums are not unduly increased because of the high number of claims caused by COVID-19.
- Renewal date for on-premise liquor permits to be extended: Modifies state statutes to provide that all on-premise liquor permits in active status when Executive Order No. 7D went into effect on March 16, 2020 shall be extended by four months, including any business whose permit expired between March 16 and April 9.
4/6/2020
CohnReznick Webinar: Obtaining COVID-19 Relief
As businesses manage through the uncertainty of COVID-19, there are options for leaders to seek financial relief, enhance liquidity, and preserve company value. However, navigating the array of options and understanding which relief packages apply to your company can be challenging. WATCH WEBINAR HERE.
4/3/2020
GOVERNOR LAMONT ALLOWS DELIVERY BY RESTAURANTS
Effective Immediately
Pursuant to Executive Order 7G and 7T, the Department of Consumer Protection issues the following rules and procedures for the sale of alcoholic liquor for pick-up and delivery to a customer for all permit types presently allowed to offer pick-up and delivery:
- For all pick-up and delivery orders that include alcoholic liquor, the customer receiving the order must be of legal drinking age and cannot be intoxicated.
- If the age of the customer receiving the alcoholic liquor is in question, he or she must present a valid operator’s license or state identify card. If the age of the customer remains in question after reviewing the identification presented, the sale and/or delivery of the alcoholic beverage must be declined.
- The use of age statement forms is not authorized for pick up or delivery of alcoholic beverages off-premises.
- Any individual who delivers orders that include alcoholic liquor directly to the customer’s residence must be at least eighteen years of age and employed as an employee of the permit premises.
- Unless otherwise noted, the hours of sales for pick up or delivery that include alcoholic liquor shall be the same as those for a package store.
4/2/2020
GOVERNOR LAMONT MODIFIES MAXIMUM PERIOD OF CREDIT FOR LIQUOR PERMITEES
Extension of 30-day period of credit for liquor permittees: Executive Order 7S modifies state law to permit the maximum period of credit for liquor permittees from certain creditors, including wholesalers and manufacturers, to be 90 days after the date of delivery for all permittees prohibited from engaging in on-premise sales per Executive Order No. 7D.
Further Explanation of Executive Order 7s:
- An On Premise account (“all permittees prohibited from engaging in on-premise sales per Executive Order No. 7D”) has 90 days terms on all invoices from “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations” IF: All invoices due to “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations” which are 40 days from day of delivery or older (posted invoices), as of March 16th , 2020 are paid in full. Once these invoices are paid, ALL open invoices from “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations” will not be subject to posting until they reach 90 days from day of delivery.
- If invoices due to “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations” 40 days or older as of March 16th are not paid in full, the account remains posted and on COD for all purchases for all “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations” per original statue and regulations.
- There is nothing in the Executive Order that mandates “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations” to extend credit. The Executive Order applies only to credit that is or was extended at the discretion of the “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations”
4/6/2020
CohnReznick Webinar: Obtaining COVID-19 Relief
As businesses manage through the uncertainty of COVID-19, there are options for leaders to seek financial relief, enhance liquidity, and preserve company value. However, navigating the array of options and understanding which relief packages apply to your company can be challenging. WATCH WEBINAR HERE.
4/3/2020
GOVERNOR LAMONT ALLOWS DELIVERY BY RESTAURANTS
Effective Immediately
Pursuant to Executive Order 7G and 7T, the Department of Consumer Protection issues the following rules and procedures for the sale of alcoholic liquor for pick-up and delivery to a customer for all permit types presently allowed to offer pick-up and delivery:
- For all pick-up and delivery orders that include alcoholic liquor, the customer receiving the order must be of legal drinking age and cannot be intoxicated.
- If the age of the customer receiving the alcoholic liquor is in question, he or she must present a valid operator’s license or state identify card. If the age of the customer remains in question after reviewing the identification presented, the sale and/or delivery of the alcoholic beverage must be declined.
- The use of age statement forms is not authorized for pick up or delivery of alcoholic beverages off-premises.
- Any individual who delivers orders that include alcoholic liquor directly to the customer’s residence must be at least eighteen years of age and employed as an employee of the permit premises.
- Unless otherwise noted, the hours of sales for pick up or delivery that include alcoholic liquor shall be the same as those for a package store.
4/2/2020
GOVERNOR LAMONT MODIFIES MAXIMUM PERIOD OF CREDIT FOR LIQUOR PERMITEES
Extension of 30-day period of credit for liquor permittees: Executive Order 7S modifies state law to permit the maximum period of credit for liquor permittees from certain creditors, including wholesalers and manufacturers, to be 90 days after the date of delivery for all permittees prohibited from engaging in on-premise sales per Executive Order No. 7D.
Further Explanation of Executive Order 7s:
- An On Premise account (“all permittees prohibited from engaging in on-premise sales per Executive Order No. 7D”) has 90 days terms on all invoices from “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations” IF: All invoices due to “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations” which are 40 days from day of delivery or older (posted invoices), as of March 16th , 2020 are paid in full. Once these invoices are paid, ALL open invoices from “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations” will not be subject to posting until they reach 90 days from day of delivery.
- If invoices due to “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations” 40 days or older as of March 16th are not paid in full, the account remains posted and on COD for all purchases for all “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations” per original statue and regulations.
- There is nothing in the Executive Order that mandates “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations” to extend credit. The Executive Order applies only to credit that is or was extended at the discretion of the “wholesalers, manufacturers or others specified in such Statute or regulations”
4/1/2020
NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION RESOURCES
The National Restaurant Association has updated their COVID-19 Resources and have a CARES Act Resource page.
SBA ECONOMIC INJURY DISASTER LOAN UPDATES
EIDL updated their application system to ensure accessibility. To apply for the loan, CLICK HERE.
CARES Act: Employee Retention Tax CreditThe employee retention tax credit (ERTC) for employers subject to closure due to coronavirus. The provision provides a refundable payroll tax credit for 50% of wages paid by employers to employees during the crisis. The credit is available to employers whose
- operations were fully or partially suspended, due to a coronavirus-related shut-down order, or
- their gross receipts declined by more than 50% when compared to the same quarter in the prior year.
Click here to read more about what the CARES Act offers for restaurant owners and operators.
3/31/2020
APPLICATION INFORMATION RELEASED FOR PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM
The Treasury Department just released initial guidance for the SBA's Paycheck Protection Program. Eligible small businesses can begin applying for these loans beginning April 3, 2020. Our national partners have already submitted questions to the SBA seeking clarity on the following issues:
- Which entities within the hospitality sector should apply for the loan;
- Eligibility requirements;
- Affiliation rules;
- Physical location language;
- Loan forgiveness provisions.
In the interim, we urge members preparing to submit a loan application to work expediently in order to submit the application to their SBA approved lender on Friday, April 3, 2020.
3/30/2020
Governor Ned Lamont and DRS Announce Deferment of Sales Tax Payment
Sales Tax Deferred For Businesses that Reported
$150,000 or Less in 2019 Sales TaxAt the direction of Governor Lamont to provide Connecticut small businesses with immediate administrative tax relief in recognition of the impact of COVID-19, the Department of Revenue Services (DRS) today announced that it granting a two-month extension of filing and payment deadlines for certain small businesses. READ THE PRESS RELEASE HERE.
3/27/2020
PAID SICK LEAVE AND EXPANDED FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE UNDER THE FAMILIES FIRST CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT POSTER
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA or Act) requires certain employers to provide their employees with paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. These provisions will apply from April 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE POSTER.
3/27/2020
CRA Restaurant Industry Update Webinar
WATCH THE WEBINAR HERE
PAID SICK LEAVE AND EXPANDED FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE UNDER THE FAMILIES FIRST CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT POSTER
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA or Act) requires certain employers to provide their employees with paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. These provisions will apply from April 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE POSTER.
3/27/2020
CRA Restaurant Industry Update Webinar
WATCH THE WEBINAR HERE
3/26/2020
3/26/2020
Restaurant Owner & Operator Survey
Economic and Operational Impact of COVID-19
As we continue to navigate through these challenging times, the Connecticut Restaurant Association is asking Restaurant Owners and Operators to take five minutes and fill out our CRA Survey regarding the status of your current operation. The answers to these questions will help shape our messaging as we continue to advocate both on a state and federal level. In addition, please note that the individual results of this survey will be kept confidential and our association will only share group specific data. Thank you again for all of your support!
CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY
Restaurant Owner & Operator Survey
Economic and Operational Impact of COVID-19
As we continue to navigate through these challenging times, the Connecticut Restaurant Association is asking Restaurant Owners and Operators to take five minutes and fill out our CRA Survey regarding the status of your current operation. The answers to these questions will help shape our messaging as we continue to advocate both on a state and federal level. In addition, please note that the individual results of this survey will be kept confidential and our association will only share group specific data. Thank you again for all of your support!
CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY
3/22/2020
RESTAURANT RELIEF ACTION ALERT: Contact the Governor and State Legislature Today
The Connecticut Restaurant Association needs your help. A letter has been sent to Governor Ned Lamont asking for relief for our industry. Now he and our state legislature need to hear from you.
READ THE LETTER TO GOVERNOR LAMONT HERE
What Can You Do?
Take 2 minutes to Click Below to Contact the Governor and the Legislature to support restaurants.
RESTAURANT RELIEF ACTION ALERT: Contact the Governor and State Legislature Today
The Connecticut Restaurant Association needs your help. A letter has been sent to Governor Ned Lamont asking for relief for our industry. Now he and our state legislature need to hear from you.
READ THE LETTER TO GOVERNOR LAMONT HERE
What Can You Do?
Take 2 minutes to Click Below to Contact the Governor and the Legislature to support restaurants.
3/21/2020
CT Restaurant Industry Webinar on COVID-19
The Connecticut Restaurant Association hosted a CT Restaurant Industry Webinar on Sunday, March 22 at 11 am. Click here for the video.
CT Restaurant Industry Webinar on COVID-19
The Connecticut Restaurant Association hosted a CT Restaurant Industry Webinar on Sunday, March 22 at 11 am. Click here for the video.
3/20/2020
Governor Issues Stay Safe, Stay at Home Policy - Restaurants Still Viewed As An Essential Industry
Today, Governor Ned Lamont announced the closing of all non-essential businesses in Connecticut through April 22. The "Stay Safe, Stay at Home" Policy is in line with New York's early announcement to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.
The Governor is directing all non-essential businesses and not-for-profit entities in Connecticut to prohibit all in-person functions if they are able to, effective Monday, March 23, 2020 at 8:00 p.m. Also, he is encouraging all businesses to employ, to the maximum extent possible, any telecommuting or work-from-home procedures that they can safely implement.
RESTAURANTS ARE VIEWED AS AN ESSENTIAL BUSINESS and can continue to offer take-out, curbside, drive-thru and delivery to residents around the state. In addition, they will be able to provide alcohol for off-premise consumption based on the guidelines from our earlier email.
READ EXECUTIVE ORDER 7H AND THE GOVERNOR'S PRESS RELEASE.
3/20/2020
SALE OF ALCOHOL WITH TAKEOUT AND CURBSIDE
UPDATES FROM DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER PROTECTION
Thanks to Governor Lamont's Administration and Lawmakers for working with the Connecticut Restaurant Association to allow for restaurants to sell alcohol for off-premise consumption, as long as patrons are purchasing food with their purchase.
READ OUR EMAIL WITH GUIDANCE FROM DCP ON IMPLEMENTATION.
3/19/2020
ACTION ALERT
Congress is looking to pass a broad economic rescue package that the Trump administration estimates will be around $1.3 trillion. We need your help to ensure restaurant relief is properly addressed in this package. TELL CONGRESS TO SUPPORT RESTAURANTS AND YOUR EMPLOYEES TODAY!
3/19/2020
Coronavirus and Business Interruption Insurance -- Information from the CT Department of Insurance
Read the Department of Insurance FAQ on Interruption Insurance.
3/17/2020
Utilities and Telecommunications Companies announce relief for customers, including businesses.
Eversource
AVANGRID (UI, SCG and CNG)
XFinity/Comcast
3/17/2020
Governor Lamont Announces Connecticut Businesses Approved to Receive Disaster Assistance Due to COVID-19
Governor Ned Lamont yesterday announced that small businesses and nonprofit organizations in Connecticut that have been negatively impacted by the global COVID-19 outbreak are now eligible for disaster relief loans of up to $2 million from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). CLICK HERE FOR PRESS RELEASE AND LINKS TO APPLY.
3/16/2020
CONNECTICUT RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION EMAIL TO RESTAURANT COMMUNITY
Governor Ned Lamont announced today in collaboration with New York and New Jersey that all restaurants and bars may no longer serve guests wishing to be seated and dine inside.
PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR THE GOVERNOR'S EXECUTIVE ORDER NO.7D
Click here to read the full email.
3/16/2020
CONNECTICUT RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION STATEMENT ON CHANGES TO RESTAURANT INDUSTRY
On Monday, Governor Lamont announced that for the foreseeable future restaurants and bars may only offer takeout, curbside pickup, and delivery to their customers. Scott Dolch, Executive Director of the Connecticut Restaurant Association, issued this statement.
3/16/2020
Northeast Governors From Connecticut, New York, New Jersey Announce Collective Measures to Combat Spread of COVID-19
Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo of New York, and Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey today announced a regional approach to combatting the novel coronavirus – or COVID-19 – throughout the tri-state area. READ PRESS RELEASE HERE.
3/15/2020
CRA Letter to Governor Lamont
As we continue to navigate through these challenging and uncertain times, we want you to know that the Connecticut Restaurant Association is doing everything we can to encourage the State to support our restaurant industry in every way possible.
Yesterday, the association sent a letter to Governor Lamont to ask for his support in providing specific relief options to our industry during these difficult times.
CLICK HERE TO READ THE CRA LETTER TO THE GOVERNOR
Read Email from Executive Director Scott Dolch to Connecticut Restaurant Community.
3/15/2020
Issue Brief: Federal Emergency Paid Leave Mandates with Employer Tax Credits
National Restaurant Association brief regarding legislation passed by the House, this is not law yet as it needs to go to the Senate. READ ISSUE BRIEF HERE.
3/13/2020
CT Department of Labor FAQ on Employment Issues for Workers and Employers
READ FAQ HERE.
3/12/2020
Governor Executive Order 7: Ban on Gatherings Over 250
Governor Lamont issues an Executive Order including a ban on all gatherings over 250. READ EXECUTIVE ORDER HERE.
Governor Issues Stay Safe, Stay at Home Policy - Restaurants Still Viewed As An Essential Industry
Today, Governor Ned Lamont announced the closing of all non-essential businesses in Connecticut through April 22. The "Stay Safe, Stay at Home" Policy is in line with New York's early announcement to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.
The Governor is directing all non-essential businesses and not-for-profit entities in Connecticut to prohibit all in-person functions if they are able to, effective Monday, March 23, 2020 at 8:00 p.m. Also, he is encouraging all businesses to employ, to the maximum extent possible, any telecommuting or work-from-home procedures that they can safely implement.
RESTAURANTS ARE VIEWED AS AN ESSENTIAL BUSINESS and can continue to offer take-out, curbside, drive-thru and delivery to residents around the state. In addition, they will be able to provide alcohol for off-premise consumption based on the guidelines from our earlier email.
READ EXECUTIVE ORDER 7H AND THE GOVERNOR'S PRESS RELEASE.
3/20/2020
SALE OF ALCOHOL WITH TAKEOUT AND CURBSIDE
UPDATES FROM DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER PROTECTION
Thanks to Governor Lamont's Administration and Lawmakers for working with the Connecticut Restaurant Association to allow for restaurants to sell alcohol for off-premise consumption, as long as patrons are purchasing food with their purchase.
READ OUR EMAIL WITH GUIDANCE FROM DCP ON IMPLEMENTATION.
3/19/2020
ACTION ALERT
Congress is looking to pass a broad economic rescue package that the Trump administration estimates will be around $1.3 trillion. We need your help to ensure restaurant relief is properly addressed in this package. TELL CONGRESS TO SUPPORT RESTAURANTS AND YOUR EMPLOYEES TODAY!
3/19/2020
Coronavirus and Business Interruption Insurance -- Information from the CT Department of Insurance
Read the Department of Insurance FAQ on Interruption Insurance.
3/17/2020
Utilities and Telecommunications Companies announce relief for customers, including businesses.
Eversource
AVANGRID (UI, SCG and CNG)
XFinity/Comcast
3/17/2020
Governor Lamont Announces Connecticut Businesses Approved to Receive Disaster Assistance Due to COVID-19
Governor Ned Lamont yesterday announced that small businesses and nonprofit organizations in Connecticut that have been negatively impacted by the global COVID-19 outbreak are now eligible for disaster relief loans of up to $2 million from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). CLICK HERE FOR PRESS RELEASE AND LINKS TO APPLY.
3/16/2020
CONNECTICUT RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION EMAIL TO RESTAURANT COMMUNITY
Governor Ned Lamont announced today in collaboration with New York and New Jersey that all restaurants and bars may no longer serve guests wishing to be seated and dine inside.
PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR THE GOVERNOR'S EXECUTIVE ORDER NO.7D
Click here to read the full email.
3/16/2020
CONNECTICUT RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION STATEMENT ON CHANGES TO RESTAURANT INDUSTRY
On Monday, Governor Lamont announced that for the foreseeable future restaurants and bars may only offer takeout, curbside pickup, and delivery to their customers. Scott Dolch, Executive Director of the Connecticut Restaurant Association, issued this statement.
3/16/2020
Northeast Governors From Connecticut, New York, New Jersey Announce Collective Measures to Combat Spread of COVID-19
Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo of New York, and Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey today announced a regional approach to combatting the novel coronavirus – or COVID-19 – throughout the tri-state area. READ PRESS RELEASE HERE.
3/15/2020
CRA Letter to Governor Lamont
As we continue to navigate through these challenging and uncertain times, we want you to know that the Connecticut Restaurant Association is doing everything we can to encourage the State to support our restaurant industry in every way possible.
Yesterday, the association sent a letter to Governor Lamont to ask for his support in providing specific relief options to our industry during these difficult times.
CLICK HERE TO READ THE CRA LETTER TO THE GOVERNOR
Read Email from Executive Director Scott Dolch to Connecticut Restaurant Community.
3/15/2020
Issue Brief: Federal Emergency Paid Leave Mandates with Employer Tax Credits
National Restaurant Association brief regarding legislation passed by the House, this is not law yet as it needs to go to the Senate. READ ISSUE BRIEF HERE.
3/13/2020
CT Department of Labor FAQ on Employment Issues for Workers and Employers
READ FAQ HERE.
3/12/2020
Governor Executive Order 7: Ban on Gatherings Over 250
Governor Lamont issues an Executive Order including a ban on all gatherings over 250. READ EXECUTIVE ORDER HERE.
HOW IS IT SPREAD? WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
Person-to-person spread of COVID-19 appears to occur mainly by respiratory transmission. How easily the virus is transmitted between persons is currently unclear.
Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Based on the incubation period of illness for Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronaviruses, as well as observational data from reports of travel-related COVID-19, CDC estimates that symptoms of COVID-19 occur within 2–14 days after exposure.
Preliminary data suggests that older adults and persons with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems might be at greater risk for severe illness from this virus.
Both the coronavirus and influenza are most dangerous to people who are older than 65, or have chronic illnesses or a weak immune system.
Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Based on the incubation period of illness for Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronaviruses, as well as observational data from reports of travel-related COVID-19, CDC estimates that symptoms of COVID-19 occur within 2–14 days after exposure.
Preliminary data suggests that older adults and persons with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems might be at greater risk for severe illness from this virus.
Both the coronavirus and influenza are most dangerous to people who are older than 65, or have chronic illnesses or a weak immune system.
FOOD SAFETY QUESTIONS
Can the coronavirus be spread through food, including refrigerated or frozen food?
According to the CDC, "Coronaviruses are generally thought to be spread from person-to-person through respiratory droplets. Currently there is no evidence to support transmission of COVID-19 associated with food. Before preparing or eating food it is important to always wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds for general food safety. Throughout the day wash your hands after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing, or going to the bathroom.
It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
In general, because of poor survivability of these coronaviruses on surfaces, there is likely very low risk of spread from food products or packaging that are shipped over a period of days or weeks at ambient, refrigerated, or frozen temperatures."
How are restaurants responding?
The foodservice industry follows strict local public health guidelines. To meet these guidelines, restaurants have safety protocols and best practices in place, including guidance from ServSafe. Owners and operators should contact their state and local health departments for the latest advisories/information about coronavirus in their community. The National Restaurant Association also has a fact sheet in English and Spanish with information specific to the industry.
According to the CDC, "Coronaviruses are generally thought to be spread from person-to-person through respiratory droplets. Currently there is no evidence to support transmission of COVID-19 associated with food. Before preparing or eating food it is important to always wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds for general food safety. Throughout the day wash your hands after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing, or going to the bathroom.
It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
In general, because of poor survivability of these coronaviruses on surfaces, there is likely very low risk of spread from food products or packaging that are shipped over a period of days or weeks at ambient, refrigerated, or frozen temperatures."
How are restaurants responding?
The foodservice industry follows strict local public health guidelines. To meet these guidelines, restaurants have safety protocols and best practices in place, including guidance from ServSafe. Owners and operators should contact their state and local health departments for the latest advisories/information about coronavirus in their community. The National Restaurant Association also has a fact sheet in English and Spanish with information specific to the industry.
WHAT SHOULD I BE DOING IN MY BUSINESS?
Perform routine environmental cleaning:
- Routinely clean all frequently touched surfaces in the workplace, such as workstations, countertops, and doorknobs. Use the cleaning agents that are usually used in these areas and follow the directions on the label.
- No additional disinfection beyond routine cleaning is recommended at this time.
- Provide disposable wipes so that commonly used surfaces (for example, doorknobs, keyboards, remote controls, desks) can be wiped down by employees before each use.
Actively encourage sick employees to stay home if they are sick:
- Employees who have symptoms of acute respiratory illness are recommended to stay home and not come to work until they are free of fever (100.4° F [37.8° C] or greater using an oral thermometer), signs of a fever, and any other symptoms for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medicines (e.g. cough suppressants). Employees should notify their supervisor and stay home if they are sick.
- Ensure that your sick leave policies are flexible and consistent with public health guidance and that employees are aware of these policies.
- Talk with companies that provide your business with contract or temporary employees about the importance of sick employees staying home and encourage them to develop non-punitive leave policies.
- Do not require a healthcare provider’s note for employees who are sick with acute respiratory illness to validate their illness or to return to work, as healthcare provider offices and medical facilities may be extremely busy and not able to provide such documentation in a timely way.
- Employers should maintain flexible policies that permit employees to stay home to care for a sick family member. Employers should be aware that more employees may need to stay at home to care for sick children or other sick family members than is usual.
Separate sick employees:
CDC recommends that employees who appear to have acute respiratory illness symptoms (i.e. cough, shortness of breath) upon arrival to work or become sick during the day should be separated from other employees and be sent home immediately. Sick employees should cover their noses and mouths with a tissue when coughing or sneezing (or an elbow or shoulder if no tissue is available).
Emphasize staying home when sick, respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene by all employees:
- Place posters that encourage staying home when sick, cough and sneeze etiquette, and hand hygiene at the entrance to your workplace and in other workplace areas where they are likely to be seen.
- Provide tissues and no-touch disposal receptacles for use by employees.
- Instruct employees to clean their hands often with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60-95% alcohol, or wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Soap and water should be used preferentially if hands are visibly dirty.
- Provide soap and water and alcohol-based hand rubs in the workplace. Ensure that adequate supplies are maintained. Place hand rubs in multiple locations or in conference rooms to encourage hand hygiene.
- Visit the coughing and sneezing etiquette and clean hands webpage for more information.
Advise employees before traveling to take certain steps:
- Check the CDC’s Traveler’s Health Notices for the latest guidance and recommendations for each country to which you will travel. Specific travel information for travelers going to and returning from China, and information for aircrew, can be found at on the CDC website.
- Advise employees to check themselves for symptoms of acute respiratory illness before starting travel and notify their supervisor and stay home if they are sick.
- Ensure employees who become sick while traveling or on temporary assignment understand that they should notify their supervisor and should promptly call a healthcare provider for advice if needed.
- If outside the United States, sick employees should follow your company’s policy for obtaining medical care or contact a healthcare provider or overseas medical assistance company to assist them with finding an appropriate healthcare provider in that country. A U.S. consular officer can help locate healthcare services. However, U.S. embassies, consulates, and military facilities do not have the legal authority, capability, and resources to evacuate or give medicines, vaccines, or medical care to private U.S. citizens overseas.
Additional Measures in Response to Currently Occurring Sporadic Importations of the COVID-19:
- Employees who are well but who have a sick family member at home with COVID-19 should notify their supervisor and refer to CDC guidance for how to conduct a risk assessment of their potential exposure.
- If an employee is confirmed to have COVID-19, employers should inform fellow employees of their possible exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace but maintain confidentiality as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Employees exposed to a co-worker with confirmed COVID-19 should refer to CDC guidance for how to conduct a risk assessment of their potential exposure.
SERVSAFE MANAGER COURSES
ServSafe Classes: Statement on COVID-19 Coronavirus
(Updated 3/16/2020)
All upcoming ServSafe Manager courses hosted by the Connecticut Restaurant Association will be postponed through at least April 1, 2020. We will be in touch soon to reschedule your class if you are registered for an upcoming class.
Reschedules will be available at no cost.
In addition, registration for classes has been disabled through April 27.
(Updated 3/16/2020)
All upcoming ServSafe Manager courses hosted by the Connecticut Restaurant Association will be postponed through at least April 1, 2020. We will be in touch soon to reschedule your class if you are registered for an upcoming class.
Reschedules will be available at no cost.
In addition, registration for classes has been disabled through April 27.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
SERVSAFE WEBINAR: For those interested in ServSafe focused information on handling coronavirus, our partners at the National Restaurant Association hosted a webinar on Tuesday, March 10th. Click here to register and view the recorded webinar.
DISINFECTANT PRODUCTS: On March 3, the EPA released a list of registered disinfectant products that have qualified under its emerging viral pathogen program for use again COVID-19. You can find the list here.
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION: OSHA Guidance for Workplace Preparation
HANDWASHING: Handwashing 101 Flyer
CLEANING AND SANITIZING: Cleaning vs. Sanitizing Flyer
DISINFECTANT PRODUCTS: On March 3, the EPA released a list of registered disinfectant products that have qualified under its emerging viral pathogen program for use again COVID-19. You can find the list here.
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION: OSHA Guidance for Workplace Preparation
HANDWASHING: Handwashing 101 Flyer
CLEANING AND SANITIZING: Cleaning vs. Sanitizing Flyer
