Patricia Dillon

Following Governor Lamont’s announcement in late September, Connecticut moved into Phase 3 of our reopening yesterday (October 8), easing some restrictions on businesses and gatherings, while still following all safety protocols to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Key changes in Phase 3:

• Restaurants, personal services, hair salons, barber shops, and libraries may increase from 50 percent to 75 percent capacity indoors (subject to COVID-19 safety requirements)
• Outdoor event venues (amphitheaters, race tracks, etc.) will increase from 25 percent to 50 percent capacity with masks and social distancing requirements
• Indoor performing arts venues will be able to open at 50 percent capacity with masks and social distancing requirements

Based on data from other states and what we know about the spread of the virus, bars and nightclubs will remain closed for now. Additional information about private, social & recreational events, graduations, and religious gatherings can be found here.

Additionally, as Governor Lamont indicated yesterday, the state is considering giving municipalities the discretion to roll back to (or remain in) Phase 2 if local infection rates rise above a certain threshold (currently 15 cases per day per 100,000 residents). This option will be an important tool to contain local outbreaks more quickly.

As a whole, Connecticut continues to make good progress with the reopening of our economy because businesses and residents are taking the necessary precautions to stay healthy.

We encourage you to visit the Business Sector Rules and Certification page and regularly review the state’s COVID-19 resource page and latest guidance for the most up-to-date information.