CT continues on the path to re-open May 20th
Guidelines expected to be released soon
CRMA special COVID-19 member services update
Links to live by
- This past week, the overall numbers that CT is tracking continue to trend in the right direction, so the prospects to Re-Open CT’s economy on the May 20th date that has been identified by Governor Lamont look increasingly likely.
- Governor Lamont’s Re-Open Business Advisory Council, which CRMA President Tim Phelan serves on, continues to advise the Governor that business is ready to re-open on May 20th and retailer specifically are ready to re-open.
- Unless the key numbers that the Governor and his team are watching, such as hospitalization intake, take a sharp turn upward during the next week, we fully expect that retailers will be open for business on May 20, consistent with guidelines that are being developed.
Guidelines expected to be released soon
- As we go to print, the guidelines that all retailers will be expected to follow are in the process of being finalized, and therefore we cannot share them with you.
- However, based on the so-called “essential” retailers safe store guidelines, we expect that the guidelines to be released will be along the same lines, likely with additional detail to provide for the safety of customers and employees.
- Based on the safe store guidelines, we expect these new guidelines will relate to a reduction in store capacity, the wearing of masks by employees and customers, training for employees on social distancing and other requirements, scheduling to maximize social distancing, and adherence to CDC and other state and federal agency guidance.
- There will likely be additional requirements for malls, particularly related to individuals congregating.
- As we mentioned, we expect the guidelines will be released shortly and when they are we will be sure to get them to you. And CRMA will be here to answer any questions that you might have.
Special CRMA COVID 19 member service update
- Because we also anticipate that when issued, the guidelines will require retailers to post COVID-19-related signage in their stores for both customers and employees, CRMAs is working on providing a special member service offering to help retailers get those signs into their stores.
- CRMA is also anticipating that re-opened retailers will be required to clean stores, particularly common areas and surfaces, with even greater attention than previously, when we hit the pause on the economy.
- In both cases, signs and cleaning/disinfection products, CRMA is working with local suppliers to give retailers an opportunity to work thru us to gain access to the services.
- Look for more information in the next week or so detailing how CRMA can help you obtain those required signs and important cleaning/disinfection products.
Links to live by
- State officials are aiming to double the number of COVID-19 tests each week, as the May 20 target for reopening the state’s economy approaches. The Hartford Courant has the story here.
- In a nearly empty State Capitol, only a handful of legislators – wearing surgical masks – gathered to formally end the 2020 session. Senate President Marty Looney said “It would be very presumptuous to set a date” for a possible special session in June. CT Mirror has the details here.
- Forgivable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) capital is still available to small businesses and nonprofits, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. Fairfield County Business Journal has the information here.
- According to a new Quinnipiac Poll, Gov. Ned Lamont received a 65% job approval rating, and a 78% approval rating for handling of the coronavirus. 59% of CT voters believe it will be safe to open in the next few months or longer, 38% believe it will be safe to open immediately or in the next few weeks. CT NewsJunkie has the story here.