Retailers get ready!
Last minute reminder – today’s CRMA webinar. EO issued for re-open
State opens online self-certification process. New Executive Order fast-tracks sales on sidewalks
Fitting rooms will be permitted
CVS opens 12 new COVID-19 test sites
Links to live by
- As retailers across the state get ready to re-open, we at CRMA want to remind you that we are ready to assist you in any way we can to make the re-open process as smooth as possible.
- To that end, while we are confident that retail is ready, there are important notices, guidelines and other things that you should be aware of.
- So, this edition of the FF is full of those links to those important notices. If after reading any of these, you have any questions or need further clarification or information, please contact CRMA President, Tim Phelan, at tim@ctretailnetwork.com
- Last minute reminder: Join us for TODAY’S 1PM live webinar- – hear the latest from DECD Commissioner David Lehman, CRMA’s Tim Phelan and CBIA’s Joe Brennan. Ask your questions. Hosted by CRMA and CBIA. Register Now >>
- As we go online with today’s FF, we are awaiting the Executive Order that Governor Lamont’s office is preparing. We know many of you are anxious for the new EO and we promise we will get it to you as soon as we have it.
Self-certification online
- An important part of the Governor’s reopen plan for Phase 1 is a mandatory self-certification process that all businesses are subject to. The state’s reopen guidelines require the online self-certification prior to opening May 20th. The certification system can be accessed here.
- After completing the certification, companies can download Safety Signage and a Badge to display at their place of business and post on their website or social media. Posting of these materials is voluntary.
Fitting rooms will be permitted; New EO allows sales on the sidewalk
- The state has revised the reopen guidelines regarding the use of fitting rooms by retailers. Under the revised guidance, any clothes tried on by a customer must either be quarantined for 48 hours or thoroughly steam cleaned prior to returning to the floor.
- Lamont latest Executive Order allows businesses such as retail stores to get fast-tracked permission to sell goods on the sidewalk or in other outdoor areas, including shared spaces or spaces provided by municipalities. A 6-foot clearance for social distancing purposes must be provided for pedestrian passage. Hartford Business Journal has the information here. The Executive Order can be seen here.
Plastic bag fees pushed back, Unemployment filings increase
- In his 41st executive order of the coronavirus crisis, Gov.Lamont extended the suspension of the tax on single-use plastic bags until June 30. It was originally set to expire on May 15. CT NewsJunkie has details here.
- A group of 11 Democratic State Senators, including Senate President Marty Looney, have expressed concern about the criteria and pace of the Reopen CT strategy, in a letter to Gov. Lamont. A copy of the letter can be seen here.
- Over 29,000 people filed new unemployment benefits claims last week in Connecticut, bringing the total number of claims filed to just over 515,000 since mid-March following the outbreak of the coronavirus. The Hartford Courant has details here.
Links to live by
- CVS Health is opening 12 new COVID-19 test sites at select CVS Pharmacy drive-thru locations in Connecticut. These new sites will utilize self-swab tests for individuals meeting CDC criteria in addition to age guidelines. Individuals must register in advance at CVS.com beginning today, May 15, to schedule an appointment. Locations and details can be seen here.
- The Regional Water Authority (RWA), which operates throughout the New Haven region, is urging reopening businesses to follow return-to-service flushing guidance offered by the state Department of Public Health (DPH). Water left in the internal plumbing of unused buildings can become stagnant, raising health, safety and taste concerns. The steps recommended by DPH can be found on the RWA’s website here. If your business has questions, contact
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a set of decision-tree documents yesterday, designed to provide guidance on how various establishments can begin the process of reopening. A copy of the guidance for workplaces can be seen here.