CT Issues Rules for a May 20th Phased Reopening of the State
On May 9th, the State of Connecticut published “sector rules” that govern the “soft reopening” of the State that Governor Lamont announced will commence on May 20th. These rules do not mandate that any business reopen; but they must be followed by those that opt to do so. Separate sets of rules were established for the following business sectors:
- Offices
- Restaurants
- Retail & Malls
- Hair Salons & Barbershops
- Museums and Zoos
Each set of sector rules contains a set of general safeguards and guidelines including the following:
- Capacity limit of 50% for businesses that reopen.
- Strict cleaning and disinfection protocols in all settings.
- Those who can work from home should continue to do so.
- Those in high-risk groups and over the age of 65 should continue to stay home.
- Facemasks should continue to be worn in public at all times.
- Social gatherings will be restricted to a maximum of 5 people.
In addition, each set of sector rules contains specific directives. For example, the “offices” sector rules require that employees maintain social distancing and wear masks at all times except when in private offices. Staggered shift times, rearrangement of furniture to increase space between employees, creation of partitions between work spaces, thorough cleaning, and provision of masks and hand sanitizer are also required. In order to obtain a “Reopen CT” badge, businesses will complete a self-certification to the Department of Economic Community Development, confirming adherence to these required measures.
The complete guidelines are available for download here: https://portal.ct.gov/DECD/Content/Coronavirus-Business-Recovery/Sector-Rules-for-May-20-Reopen
With additional clarifications and information emerging on a nearly daily basis, it can be difficult to keep track of the many moving pieces that are in play. Please feel free to contact us with any questions.
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