Comprehensive Covid-19 Update

April 23, 2020

Click the links in the introduction to navigate to the correlating sections in the body of this email.

Fact vs. Fiction. Wrong vs. Right. Winning vs. The Truth. These seem to be the common themes of many of the things we’re hearing on cable news or reading about on social medial (put it down for a day…it’ll do a body good…I swear). And while many continue to be frustrated with and question certain restrictions and strongly urged safety precautions, we ask that you take a deep breath and remember that we’re in this together.

 

The governor and his team still work for you, and if you have questions, please ask and we’ll do our best to provide answers.  In the meantime, if you need to vent, rant, or simply find a friendly ear, talk a look at the “Talk It Out Line” in the Resources For Family link below. While the Governor and his administration have developed various measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19/coronavirus, and we've seen improvements, we cannot afford to let our guard down. It is essential for us to remain vigilant and practice social distancing, wash our hands and frequently touched surfaces and objects, and wear a non-medical face mask when we must make an emergency errand out in public. 

While public health officials believe we are nearing the peak and state leaders are working on ways to reopen our economy and get people back to work, school, and their daily lives, we're not out of our homes yet. 

So if you're sick of binge watching Tiger King and Nailed It on Netflix, there are ways for you to foster meaningful, yet socially distant, connections through an Intergenerational Pen Pal Program, connect with nature by exploring Connecticut's many state parks and forests, improve your cooking and baking skills with a new recipe, or take advantage of virtual museum and gallery tours

In response to COVID-19, below you will find an updated guide to the below resources. We've upgraded our e-blast so that you can click the links to go right to the topic. Click on the subject to navigate to the topic section in the body of this email.

You can find the full list of resources and information on my web site, www.housedems.ct.gov/Dathan. If there's something you need help with that isn't included in this email, please check my website. If you can't find what you're looking for there, please don't hesitate to reach out to my office at 860-240-1479 or email me at Lucy.Dathan@cga.ct.gov.

Sincerely,
 
As of Thursday at 4 p.m. there have been a total of 23,100 confirmed cases, 1,947 people hospitalized, 1,639 fatalities and 71,497 tests conducted. 

Friday Governor Lamont signed Executive Order No. 7BB to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, which enacts the following provisions:
  • Cloth face coverings or higher level of protection are required in public wherever close contact is unavoidable.
    • Individuals shall use a mask or cloth face covering when using taxi, car, livery, ride-sharing, or similar services, mass public transit, or while within any semi-enclosed transit waiting area or stop
    • The Dept. of Economic and Community Development Commissioner will update the Safe Workplace rules and Safe Store rules to reflect this requirement
    • Children under 2 years of age will not be required to wear a face covering
    • Older children are not required to wear a face covering if the parent, guardian, or caregiver responsible for the child is unable to place the mask safely on the child's face
    • Individuals who decline to wear a mask or face covering due to a medical condition will not be required to produce medical documentation
  • Further postponement of the presidential primary to August 11, 2020

Read the full executive order here, and read Friday's news update here.

Sunday the Governor announced that he would boost Medicaid payments for Connecticut's nursing homes by 15 percent and that the state Department of Public Health will begin site visits to every nursing home in Connecticut to extend additional support. More on this is below.

You can read the Governor's executive orders here, and read his full updates here. To watch his daily briefings, click here.

For additional information about the state's COVID-19 response, visit ct.gov/coronavirus. Sign up for CTAlert, the state's emergency alert system, to receive text message alerts by texting "COVIDCT" to 888-777.
 
Multi-State Council Enacted to Help Employees Get Back to Work, Restore Economy

Connecticut joined forces this week with New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Delaware and Pennsylvania to create a multi-state council charged with getting people back to work and restoring the economy, already building on a regional approach to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Massachusetts has also joined the council signaling that these efforts and other measures to mitigate the spread of this virus are not partisan. COVID-19 doesn’t discriminate and so neither should we.

According to a press release distributed by Governor Ned Lamont, "The coordinating group – comprised of one health expert, one economic development expert and the respective chief of staff from each state – will work together to develop a fully integrated regional framework to gradually lift the states’ stay at home orders while minimizing the risk of increased spread of the virus."
 
The full release including quotes from the governors involved in the multi-state council can be found here.

AdvanceCT Forms Group to Reopen CT's Economy

The nonprofit organization AdvanceCT announced it will form the Reopen Connecticut Advisory Group to examine initiatives to cautiously reopen the state's economy. 

The group will be co-chaired by Indra Nooyi, who serves as the current board co-chair of AdvanceCT and was the former chair and CEO of PepsiCo, and Albert Ko, MD, a professor of Epidemiology and Medicine and department chair at the Yale School of Public Health. Other advisors include Ezekiel Emanuel, Vice Provost for Global Initiatives and chair of the Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy at the University of Pennsylvania, and Scott Gottlieb, former Food and Drug Administration Commissioner. 

More information is available here.
 
The non-partisan Office of Legislative Research has summaries of the Governor's Executive Orders. These summaries are filled with helpful information in an easy-to-digest format. 

Click the below links to access them:
Earlier this week, Governor Lamont issued a COVID-19 related  executive order. This order stated cloth face coverings or a higher level of protection are required in public wherever close contact is unavoidable.

Wearing a mask or other forms of face protection will help reduce the spread from people who are asymptomatic carriers of the virus. However, not all face coverings are equal in terms of quality. Some will not prevent virus particles from getting in or breathed out.

Holding a face mask up to light is a great way to test its effectiveness.  If you see any light, it means that there is very little protection because the tiny virus particles (under 1 micron in size) are able to get in or out.  Try to use very tightly-woven cotton or some other material.   

Any mask can easily be enhanced with common household objects. The following are examples of what can be inserted inside the mask, secured with tape or stapled to the inner cloth cover where your nose and mouth would be located:

  •  1-2 Layers of paper towel 
  •  Coffee filter, flattened
  •  Women's pantyliner and bladder leakage protection liners (adhesive keeps from slipping off cotton )
  • Dressmaker facing material 
  • Vacuum Cleaner bag, cut in pieces to fit over nose and mouth

While homemade face protectors are no substitute for a manufactured N95 mask, but these tips will help increase its effectiveness. 

Click here for more information
Earlier this week, a rapid coronavirus testing center opened in New Haven. With the ability to test up to 750 people per day, pre-registration is required in advance online.

Although in partnership with CVS, it's important to note that testing will not take place at CVS locations. Social distancing will be adhered to, and people are asked to remain in their vehicles. Testing is free and results take approximately 30 minutes. 

To read more, and access the link to register, click here.

We’re all looking for something we can do to stem the spread of COVID-19.

Using the How We Feel app is an easy way for everyone – whether you're sick or healthy – to safely and anonymously provide valuable info to leading health professionals so they can track the spread of this virus and quickly determine where a new outbreak may be occurring.

This is not a diagnostic app, if you have concerns how you feel, you should always contact your medical professional.

We are the first state at adopting this, and I would encourage you all to give it a try as the more people that use this, the more accuracy of where we are in fighting this virus.

Please visit www.howwefeel.org if you have further questions.
  • For the past few weeks, Senator Murphy has been traveling around Connecticut to thank those who are making sure students and vulnerable communities have the food and supplies they need during the COVID-19 pandemic. This morning, he traveled to Hamden Middle School, which serves as both a donation site and a place for students to pick up meals, to deliver groceries and supplies.
  • Senator Murphy also joined Governor Ned Lamont, Senator Richard Blumenthal, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-3), and New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker for a visit to the site of recently launched respirator mask decontamination system. Battelle’s machine, which was recently given emergency approval by the S. Food and Drug Administration, can clean thousands of N95 masks per day and make them safe for reuse up to 20 times. Connecticut is among the first states in the nation to use this new technology, and the service is being offered at no charge to the state’s hospitals and health care providers
  • Senator Murphy and Republican Senator Bill Cassidy (La.) released bipartisan principles to support students with disabilities to ensure they receive full and equitable educational services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. They included these principles in a letter to U.S. Department of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos to ask for clear guidance to protect the needs of students with disabilities during and following nationwide school closures.
  • Senator Murphy and Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-5) held a telephone town hall with Connecticut’s 5th Congressional district residents to talk about the impact the coronavirus has had on Connecticut and took questions from constituents on efforts to help contain the spread of the virus and bring relief to workers, families, hospitals and small businesses impacted by it.
  • Congress recently passed Pandemic Unemployment Assistance for part-time and self-employed workers – as well as Pandemic Unemployment Compensation that includes an extra $600 per week for those who are unemployed. To find more information on how these programs work and if you qualify, head to: https://www.ctdol.state.ct.us/DOLCOVIDFAQ.pdf
  • After hearing from farmers in Connecticut who don’t qualify for the Emergency Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) grants included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, Senators Murphy and Blumenthal sent a letter to the Small Business Administration (SBA) urging the administration to modify its guidance so that farms are eligible. The “COVID 3.5” supplemental legislation that passed the Senate Tuesday, included language to ensure farms with under 500 employees are now eligible for EIDL. This bill is expected to pass the House later this week and go to the president’s desk for final signature.
  • Today, HHS announced a second round of funding provided in the CARES Act for health care providers, including $10 billion for hospitals in COVID-19 hotspots and $20 billion for general distribution to providers based on past annual net revenue. Providers should have heard directly from HHS with details; hospitals in impacted areas need to submit certain data by midnight Pacific Time tomorrow.   
  • Senator Murphy along with 16 other Democratic Senators wrote to Senate leadership calling to restrict future stimulus funding for higher education from for-profit colleges and target it entirely toward public and non-profit institutions. Murphy has previously called out for-profit colleges for a history of deceptive practices and poor outcomes for students. 
  • The U.S. Department of Education announced it's releasing $6 billion in stimulus funding to help colleges adjust to closures and distance learning. Connecticut colleges will receive approximately $67 million

For information on federal coronavirus relief, including help for small businesses, direct cash payments and more, visit murphy.senate.gov/coronavirus. This page provides answers to frequently asked questions and gives a summary of available programs and funding.
For the latest information about keeping you or your family safe go to cdc.gov/coronavirus. For resources and information about Connecticut’s response visit ct.gov/coronavirus.
I hope you found this letter helpful. You can get the latest updates on Senator Murphy's work in the Senate by following him on Facebook and Instagram. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our offices in Hartford or in Washington, D.C.
The Federal Senate has passed another Stimulus bill, the House is expected to pass it soon and the President is expected to sign it. While the bill does not have crucial funding for state governments it does provide have crucial aid to businesses, hospitals, and increasing testing capacity.

According to Forbes The bill approved by the Senate includes:

  • $310 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program, including $30 billion allocated specifically to community lenders, small banks and credit unions, and $30 billion to medium-sized banks and credit unions
  • $60 billion for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program, which includes $10 billion in emergency grants for businesses
  • $75 billion in resources for hospitals, including personal protective equipment 
  • $25 billion for COVID-19 testing
The nonpartisan Office of Fiscal Analysis has an updated synopsis on federal aid available to Connecticut throughout the duration of the COVID-19 emergency. Click here to read an updated summary of assistance for our state.
 
The first round of Stimulus Package checks went out to taxpayers who filed their 2018 and/or 2019 tax returns. A second round of paper checks is expected to be mailed to taxpayers around May 4.
 
If you haven't received a payment but are expecting one, aren't sure if you're eligible, or would like to speed up the process of receiving your payout by entering bank account information, the IRS has created a portal where you can check the status of your stimulus payment here.
 
Please be aware of scams associated with Stimulus Package checks. Here's a related story that recently appeared in the Hartford Courant.

Friday, Banking Commissioner Jorge Perez issued guidance to Connecticut state-chartered financial institutions urging them not to use the stimulus funds to offset outstanding debts customers may have with their financial institution as the monies are meant to be used by residents to meet their basic needs. The guidance will cover a 30-day period from the date the stimulus payment is deposited to the account. Financial institutions are urged to document any offset with the express agreement of the customer or member. Please note this is simply a strong suggestion as the DOB does not have the authority to require adherence. If your bank is not following this proposed guidance, please reach out to my office.

Customers who have questions should reach out to their financial institution, or request assistance through the Department of Banking's website.

Do you or a family member have student loans and are struggling to make payments due to the #COVID19 Pandemic?

Connecticut residents with commercially owned Federal Family Education Loan Programs or privately held student will be eligible for expanded relief. You should immediately contact your student loan servicer to identify the options that are appropriate to your circumstances.

Relief options through the servicers listed below include:

  • Providing a minimum of 90 days of forbearance;
  • Waiving late payment fees;
  • Ensuring that no borrower is subject to negative credit reporting;
  • Ceasing debt collection lawsuits for 90 days; and
  • Working with borrower to enroll them in other borrower assistance programs, such as income based repayment.

To determine the types of federal loans residents have and who their servicers are, borrowers can visit the U.S. Department of Education’s National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) or call the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-433-3243 or 1-800-730-8913 (TDD).

Borrowers with private student loans can check the contact information on your monthly billing statements.
Over 50 percent of Connecticut households have responded to the Census and our state is leading the entire Northeastern region in response rates, but there's still a lot of work to do to ensure every single adult, child, infant, student, senior and everyone in between is counted. 

So if you have not yet completed your 2020 census form it is important to do so. Data from the census will be used to determine how much representation our community will have in the U.S. House of Representatives and our state legislative districts.

Census data will also be used to determine how billions in federal dollars will be distributed over the next 10 years for services and programs like education, health care, transportation, public safety, road maintenance and more. 

For the first time you can complete the census online. It only take a few minutes of your time. If you don't feel comfortable filling it out online, you can call 844-330-2020. 

Spanish speakers can call 844-468-2020.

To complete the census by phone with another language accommodation, click here.

You can also fill out the census by mail. Homes that do not first respond online or by phone will receive a paper questionnaire. Once you've finished the questionnaire, return it in the provided envelope and send it to:

U.S. Census Bureau 
National Processing Center
1201 E 10th Street
Jeffersonville, IN 47132
It is safe to respond to the 2020 census. Your information can only be used for statistical purposes. The U.S. Census Burearu is bound by federal law to keep your information confidential. It cannot be shared to law enforcement agencies and cannot be used against you by any government agency or court. 

The Census Bureau will never ask you for:

  • Your full Social Security number
  • Your bank account or credit card numbers
  • Anything on behalf of a political party
  • Money or donations

And the Bureau will never contact you on behalf of a political party. 

For additional information about the importance of the 2020 Census, how to fill out the form, or how your data is protected, visit 2020census.gov. 
Governor Lamont has further postponed Connecticut's Presidential Primary Election to August 11 due to the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis. Connecticut is already scheduled to hold other federal, state, and local office primaries on that date, and this decision will enable the presidential primary to appear on the same ballot as those other races. This not only takes into account the safety and well-being of our electorate, but also saves our towns and cities money.

The Governor will sign an executive order authorizing the date change. Click here for more information.
 
The state Department of Revenue Services launched a new assistance program designed to help taxpayers subject to current DRS collections matters who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The DRS Priority One Taxpayer Assistance Program (Priority One) is available to business and individual taxpayers who may be unable to meet their current collections obligations. Taxpayers can contact DRS directly to speak to a tax professional. Those who require assistance can call the Priority One program via:

Those seeking assistance should provide as much information as possible about their situation and relief they are seeking. Additional information is available here.
In addition to the new mask requirement, there are additional precautions you can take to protect yourself and those around you from infection:
  • Keep a 6-foot distance between you and other people, including workers who are ringing up your order and those who are stocking shelves. 
  • Avoid bringing your whole family to the supermarket or other store if you can help it. A trip to the grocery store does not need to be a family outing. 
  • Use credit cards instead of cash if possible.
  • Limit your contact with surfaces, fresh produce, and other food and beverage products. Bring your own disinfecting wipes to wipe down surfaces you touch or will touch.
  • If you choose to wear gloves, remember they are meant to prevent cross-contamination. Avoid touching your face when you have them on, and throw them IN a trash receptacle upon leaving the store - NOT on the ground outside of your car, NOT on sidewalks, NOT in parking lots, NOT on the ground outside of the store, NOT on the ground next to the trash receptacle - IN the trash receptacle.
  • Be kind to staff and fellow shoppers. This is an uneasy and stressful time for everyone and it is critical we make each day a little easier for one another.
  • Remember to cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, or the crook of your elbow or sleeve at the very least. Coronavirus is transmitted by droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.  

If you begin experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, please call your healthcare provider. Do not leave your home for any reason except to seek medical care.

There are a number of drive-through test sites in Connecticut. Find one near you here. To be tested you must have a doctor's note.
If you are sick, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following:
  • Stay home if you are mildly ill with COVID-19, and do not leave EXCEPT to receive medical care
  • Stay in touch with your doctor, and call before you get medical care. If your symptoms become worse, or believe it is an emergency, seek medical attention 
  • If you are sick, ensure you wear a facemask when you are around other people and before you enter your healthcare provider's office
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and throw the used tissue in a trash can
  • Wash your hands for AT LEAST 20 seconds. Can't wash your hands? Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
  • Disinfect high-touch surfaces, bathroom, your or the sick person's room

Emergency Warning Signs - Seek Medical Attention if:

  • You have difficulty breathing/shortness of breath
  • Pain or pressure in your chest
  • New confusion or inability to arouse
  • Bluish lips or face

Call 9-1-1 if you are experiencing these symptoms and notify the operator that you have or may have COVID-19.

When to End Home Isolation if you will not be tested:

  • You have had no fever for at least 3 full days without using fever reducing medicine AND
  • Other symptoms have improved AND
  • At least 7 days have passed since symptoms first appeared

When to End Home Isolation if you will be tested:

  • You no longer have a fever (without using fever reducing medicine) AND
  • Other symptoms (cough, shortness of breath) have improved AND
  • You receive 2 negative tests in a row, 24 hours apart. 

If you choose to end home isolation, consult with your primary health care provider. Local decisions depend on local circumstances.

Additional Resources on what to do if you're sick and might have COVID-19:
Donate to Local Food Banks

Our food banks, shelters and charities have received a massive influx of requests for help during this crisis.

Donate to Person 2 Person here 

Donate to Open Door food bank and shelter here 

Donate Personal Protective Equipment

There is a critical need for personal protective equipment for medical workers at hospitals and long-term care facilities. This includes:

  • N95 Respirators
  • Face Masks/Surgical Masks
  • Face Shields 
  • Surgical Gowns
  • Gloves (nitrile, or non-latex)
  • Thermometers
  • Thermometer Covers (if applicable to type of thermometer)
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Other Medical Items

The public, businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations may donate these items through the Connecticut United Way/211. To donate to the state's supply for distribution in medical facilities, fill out the form here.

Thank you to UConn Storrs engineers, scientists, and researchers, UConn Health, and the UConn Foundation for working collaboratively to address the critical shortage of medical supplies and PPE. Read more about the university's efforts to increase the supply of PPE and medical equipment to protect healthcare workers on UConn Today. To find out how you can help UConn address the PPE shortage, click here.

Volunteer

The state is looking for non-medical volunteers to assist with food banks/pantries, meal delivery services, and homeless shelters as need for these services has increased. 

The CT Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, United Way of Connecticut, and the Office of the Governor have established the Disaster Assistance and Response Technology (DART) database to match volunteers to in-need nonprofits. Register here as a non-medical volunteer.

Volunteers should be 18 or older and should not volunteer if at risk or compromised. Those who are immunocompromised, over 60, showing symptoms of COVID-19, or live with or care for someone in any of those categories should avoid being in public. 

The state is also asking for retired healthcare professionals to volunteer their services during this emergency. To sign up visit CTResponds.ct.gov.

If you have a background in medical care you can also contact your local health department to volunteer. Locate your local health department here.

If you are a nurse, you can register to volunteer through the Connecticut Nurses Association web site: www.CTNurses.org/coronavirus

Donate Blood and/or Plasma:

The American Red Cross has partnered with the US Food and Drug Administration to seek plasma donations from individuals who have fully recovered from COVID-19. This plasma, also called convalescent plasma, will be used to treat patients with serious or life-threatening COVID-19 patients. Click here to learn more about the program.

Our country and state are facing a blood shortage, and the American Red Cross is asking for those who are able and willing to donate blood. To allow for social distancing, donors can call the Red Cross at 1-800-Red-Cross to make an appointment. Interested individuals can also make an appointment using the Red Cross web site, here, or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Download it here.

CHEFA Announces FY 2021 COVID-19 Grant Program

The board of directors of the Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) voted at its April 15 meeting to replace their three grant cycles for FY 2021 to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The FY 2021 CHEFA COVID-19 Grant Program will focus on funding statewide efforts that are currently, or plan to be, launched by 501(c)(3) Connecticut nonprofit entities to respond to the crisis. 

The efforts can be focused on statewide programs to support CT communities and residents or can be sector specific funds focused on one or more of CHEFA’s four core priority areas of health care, education, child care, and cultural.

Organizations seeking details may contact Betty Sugarman Weintraub, CHEFA Grant Program Manager, for more information at 860-761-8428 or bweintraub@chefa.com.

Hartford Foundation for Public Giving:

Last month the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving launched the COVID-19 Response Fund to deploy resources to support residents significantly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The Foundation recently announced a second round of grants totaling $1.1 million to support community-based organizations. 

Among the recipients is Integrated Health Services, which is slated to receive a $20,000 grant to support organizational stability and to provide health and behavioral health services in partnership with Goodwin University. 

Learn more about the fund or consider making a donation here.
Today Governor Lamont announced he will boost Medicaid payments for all of Connecticut's 215 nursing homes by 15 percent, providing an additional $65 million to these facilities.

Increased financial support will be applied towards:

  • Employee wages, including staff retention bonuses, overtime, and shift incentive payments;
  • New costs related to screening of visitors;
  • Personal protective equipment;
  • Cleaning and housekeeping supplies; and
  • Other costs related to COVID-19.

The expanded state aid is in addition to the enhanced federal support nursing homes expect to receive through Medicare and general relief from the CARES Act. More information is available here.

To provide additional support for the state's nursing homes and long-term care facilities, staff from the Dept. of Public Health will make physical, on-site visits over the next 7 to 10 days. The department’s Healthcare Quality and Safety Branch, with guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, will conduct infection control surveys during each visit. Click here to view the form that will be used during the site visits. 

The state of Connecticut is tracking COVID-19 cases in nursing homes and expects to publish weekly reports of COVID-19 positive residents and associated deaths in our state. Click here to find the most recent report of cases in Connecticut's nursing homes. 

Earlier this weekend the Governor signed Executive Order No. 7AA to permit temporary additional nursing home beds for COVID-19 recovery to support and protect nursing home residents. Click here to read the full executive order. 

The Governor also enacted the state's nursing home surge plan to establish COVID-19 recovery centers. Read more about the plan here.

If you have questions about the surge plan, the state Department of Social Services compiled a FAQ sheet, here.
Questions and answers regarding homeowner rights during the COVID-19 outbreak, including ability to make payments in the event you've been negatively impacted by the outbreak or not can be found in the FAQ here which includes a version in Spanish, too.
 
AdvanceCT has launched a second business survey to provide feedback to policymakers on how businesses have been affected by the COVID-19 crisis. Survey results will be used to prioritize economic recovery initiatives. It has been developed in collaboration with the state Department of Economic and Community Development and the Connecticut Business and Industry Association. The survey can be accessed here.

You can read the results of the first survey here.
Wednesday night the Connecticut Department of Labor reportedly processed 60,000 unemployment claims using new software improvements. Emails containing the next steps claimants must take to receive their benefits have been sent to those whose applications were processed. Claimants are urged to check any spam or junk email folders. 

With the new software improvements, the anticipated wait time will be shortened to one week or less instead of the originally expected 6-week wait period.

Additional federal stimulus benefits, including $600 in additional weekly payments will begin April 24. The additional funds will be included in Connecticut benefit payments the following week.

By April 30, the DOL expects to accept claim applications for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance - the federal unemployment benefits program for self-employed individuals and independent contractors.

These benefits will be retroactive to the date a person needed to apply.

If you have questions about how to apply for unemployment benefits, read this FAQ sheet from the CTDOL. 
 
Stimulus checks will begin to be deposited in bank accounts for those whose banking information is on file with the IRS. Paper stimulus checks will start going out to residents around May 4. 

Scammers are trying to steal some of the $290 billion in economic impact payments that are being sent to consumers. Watch out for the following schemes to avoid being taken advantage of:

  • Sign up - You don't have to sign up for anything to get your stimulus check. The Treasury knows  who's eligible, so you don't have to do anything to get it.
  • Verify you account - The IRS never contacts people to verify financial or personal information. If it has your banking information, it will send your stimulus payments. If you receive an email, text, phone call, or piece of mail asking you to verify or access your payment or direct deposit information, it's a scam.
  • Expedited payments - If you receive any communication offering to expedite your stimulus payment for a fee, it's a scam. The U.S. Treasury has begun direct depositing the checks. Paper checks are expected to be sent out around May 4. No one can pay to speed up the process.
  • Over-payments - Some scammers may send you a check in an amount greater than what you're entitled to, and they will call to apologize for the mistake and ask you to return the difference in cash, gift cards, or wire transfer. 
  • Required forms - Although most individuals do not have to submit any paperwork to receive their stimulus payment, some may need to file a simple return or additional paperwork. If you do, make sure you're dealing with the IRS or the U.S. Treasury. If you receive an unsolicited phone call, or form by mail or email, it's more than likely a scam. If you believe you have to submit additional paperwork, visit irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments to see the steps you need to take.

Read more about the stimulus payments and potential scams in the Hartford Courant here.
There have also been reports about text message scams notifying individuals they recently came into contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, and that they should self-isolate and click a link. If you get a similar text message or other communication, do not click the link as it opens a gateway for bad actors to take advantage of you. Click here to read more about this scam.

If you receive a suspicious email, phone call or text message, report it to the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General, here. You can also contact the AG's Office at 860-808-5000 or attorney.general@ct.gov.

You can also contact the Department of Consumer Protection at dcp.complaints@ct.gov or click here to file a complaint.
GLAD has compiled a list of resources for LGBTQ+ people who may have questions about their legal rights, or need access to legal and health services. 

Click here to read GLAD's COVID-19 resources page.

GLAD recently signed onto an action letter urging federal leaders to support child welfare systems that have become strained due to the COVID-19 crisis. 

This won't be enough, and you are encouraged to call your Senator or Congressperson to ensure child welfare systems are able to meet the needs of foster youth families across our state and country. 

If you or a loved one is involved in the child welfare system, share how the COVID-19 emergency has impacted you. If you need help or have questions, reach out to GLAD at www.GLADAnswers.org. 
 
The Trevor Project helps LGBTQ+ youth. If you or anyone you know needs support, you can call their hotline at 866-488-7386 24/7. Those in need can also text a Trevor counselor by texting START to 678-678.

There is also a confidential online instant messaging tool, which can be accessed through the Trevor Project website here.

Read more about the Trevor Project here.
 
 
If you need to talk to someone during this emergency, Trans Lifeline is available 24/7 at 877-565-8860. The peer support hotline is run by and for trans people to connect them to the support and resources necessary to survive and thrive.
Taking care of your mental health is critical during this time. Our daily routines have been interrupted and we may be having some, or a lot, of anxiety. There seems to be new information and messages each day with not enough time to process it. If you need support, the resources are out there. I hope some of the ones I've included below are helpful.
 
The federal government has expended access to telehealth so patients can receive a wider range of services without travelling to a healthcare facility. 

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has issued guidance on telehealth reimbursement and coverage options in the Medicaid program here.

The Connecticut Dept. of Social Services implemented changes in Medicaid/HUSKY Health to increase access to health services and will cover telemedicine for enrolled residents. Click the buttons below for additional details.
Emergency Telemedicine Details
Connecticut Medical Assistance Program Details
 
The President's Roadmap to Empower Veterans and End a National Tragedy of Suicide (PREVENTS) was recently established to address the culture surrounding mental health as a main component of overall health and well-being to prevent suicide among Veterans and military service members. Learn more about the task force here.

If you or a Veteran you know needs help, click here to access the Veterans Crisis Line. You can also call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, or text 838255. Support for deaf and hard of hearing can call 1-800-799-4889. 

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has resources for Veterans who may be struggling with stress or anxiety. Access those resources here.
Click here for the latest update from Norwalk Public Schools.

Food delivery services have been postponed, and food will need to picked up until further notice. Meals for student ages 2-18 may now be picked up at 10 food centers across the city (see below) from 12 noon to 2 pm, Monday through Friday. 

At these locations, families will have the option to “drive through” or walk up. For the health and safety of both families and staff, we will require that everyone maintain “social distancing,” meaning 6 feet of physical space between you and a non-family member. Crossing guards and security guards will be available to assist.

Pick up Locations for Student Meals Beginning Monday, March 30.

Monday – Friday, 12 noon to 2 pm.

 SCHOOL SITES

Brien McMahon High School, 300 Highland Avenue

Jefferson Elementary School, 75 Van Buren Avenue

Kendall Elementary School, 57 Fillow Street

Marvin Elementary School, 16 Calf Pasture Beach Road

Ponus Ridge Middle School, 21 Hunters Lane

Nathan Hale Middle School,176 Strawberry Hill Avenue

Tracey Magnet School, 20 Camp Street

COMMUNITY SITES 

Ben Franklin Community Center, 165 Flax Hill Road 

Carver Community Center, 7 Academy Street

Nathaniel Ely Center (Maritime Odyssey Preschool), 11 Ingalls Avenue
Advanced Placement Exams will be given from May 11 to 22, with makeup test dates available for each subject from June 1 through 5. 

Students will be able to take exams at home or in schools, if they reopen.

Each subject exam will be taken on the same day, at the same time, worldwide.

You can find the full testing schedule here.

Students will have access to free, live AP review lessons on YouTube and additional resources on Khan Academy. You can learn more about this year's AP Exams in Trevor Packer's presentation. Students who do not have access to connectivity resources can reach out to 1-888-225-5427.

Additional information and updates are available here.
The Connecticut Office of Early Childhood has a dedicated website for families affected by the COVID-19 emergency. The site provides guidance, memos, fact sheets, information about new child care funds and programs, and resources for families and providers. Visit the website at www.ctoec.org/COVId-19.

The CDC has guidance for parents and caregivers on how to support their child(ren) during this time. Click here to learn more about helping children cope. You can also find helpful ways to answer your child's questions here. If your child becomes ill, click here to read how you can take care of your child.

If you, someone you know or your child is release from quarantine and has a difficult time adjusting, the CDC has helpful advise on how to cope here.
 
Talk it Out Public Service Announcment
The Connecticut Department of Children and Families teamed up with Governor Lamont and the United Way to launch the "When it Builds Up, Talk it Out" psa campaign and hotline.

This resource is for parents and caregivers who need someone to listen, to understand, and to talk out their feelings. 

The Talk It Out Line is available at 1-833-258-5011 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on weekends from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. 

It has both English and Spanish capacity. 

For more information about the campaign and additional resources from DCF, click here.
 
2-1-1 announced recently that the Birth to 3 System is accepting referrals during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. If you have concerns about your child's development, you can call 1-800-505-7000 for a remote Early Intervention Evaluation.

Click here for more information.

It is important to note that the Governor signed Executive Order No. 7O, which waives family cost participation fees. Although Birth to 3 programs collect information about family cost participation fees, families will not be billed or responsible for March fees.
There has been one inmate death in Connecticut's corrections facilities related to COVID-19. As of 2 p.m. Thursday, April 16, 227 inmates have tested positive for the virus and 157 CT Department of Corrections staff members have tested positive for the virus. Inmates who have contracted COVID-19 have been transferred to an isolation unit. 

For information about how the DOC is addressing COVID-19 in its facilities to reduce spread of the virus, visit the web page here. Here you will find an FAQ sheet concerning DOC facilities and inmates, the DOC's COVID-19 Operational Response Plan, memos, a reentry fact sheet, and more.  
 

Remote Processing of Certain Civil and Family Matters

Starting Monday, April 20 the CT Judicial Branch will begin handling certain civil and family matters remotely. Click here to find the full list.

Supreme and Appellate Courts to Hear Cases Remotely

CT's Supreme and Appellate Courts will hear arguments remotely in April and May. Case assignments will be available on the Judicial Branch's website no later than Tuesday, April 21 for the Supreme Court and Tuesday, May 5 for the Appellate Court. Click here for more information.

Jury Service

Jury service has been suspended until further notice. Anyone who has been summoned for jury duty should be advised that their service has been cancelled and should not report.

For more updates from the Judicial Branch visit its website at jud.ct.gov.
The state Department of Transportation is continuing to invest in transportation infrastructure and road and bride construction projects are moving along as planned. Due to reduced traffic volumes across the state, road and bridge construction operations are permitted to modify their activities to include longer duration and weekday lane closures to allow completion of more work without impacting traffic flow. 

Rail Update

Connecticut's rail line system is operating on a reduced schedule due to declines in ridership. Trains are being cleaned more frequently to protect the health and safety of frontline workers, and train crews have been provided face masks. 

  • New Haven Line: operating on an hourly schedule with extra trains during peak weekday times. Metro-North started a reduced hourly schedule. 
  • New Canaan and Danbury Lines: operating on a reduced hourly schedule
  • Waterbury Rail Line: transitioned to bus service to allow social distancing and to allow rail line infrastructure improvements to progress quickly
  • Hartford Line (CTrail Hartford Line & Amtrak Hartford Line): operating on a new special weekday schedule, which is posted on the web site and Hartford Line stations 
  • Shore Line East: operating on a weekend schedule 7 days a week

Visit the following website for updated train schedules and specific updates:

Click here for MTA daily coronavirus updates.

CTtransit Bus Service

CTtransit bus service and transit district services continue to operate on a weekday schedule with some modifications. CTtransit express buses to Hartford are operating on a reduced schedule.

The CTDOT urges residents to reserve bus and public transportation for essential travel only, and riders should practice social distancing while waiting at bus stops and while riding the bus. Anyone who feels sick should not use public transportation. Face masks have been distributed to bus drivers and frontline personnel, and buses are cleaned more frequently.

CTtransit bus service passengers are also encouraged to board buses from the rear door, with the exception of passengers who are in wheelchairs or who require the bus to kneel.

Updated bus schedules are available at www.cttransit.com.

Service Plazas and Rest Areas

Service plazas on I-95, I-395, and most on the Merritt and Wilbur Cross Parkways remain open. Only take-out food is being served and all seating areas are closed. On April 10 the Governor announced food trucks would be temporarily permitted at CTDOT highway rest areas. Click here to read more. 

Four service plazas on the Merritt Parkway in New Canaan and Orange have been closed.