Friday COVID-19 Update

March 20, 2020

Key Points:

  • Since yesterday’s update, an additional 63 Connecticut residents have tested positive, bringing the state wide total to 159. This includes the first cases to be reported out of Tolland and Windham Counties. There are three fatalities in Connecticut due to complications from COVID-19.
  • Governor Lamont signed his eighth executive order pursuant to his emergency declaration, taking further actions to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Connecticut. This one:
    • Postpones Connecticut’s presidential primary from April 28 to June 2, 2020.
    • Suspends non-critical court operations and associated requirements, deadlines, and statutes of limitations.
    • Permits certain restaurants and other eating establishments to sell alcohol with take-out food orders and certain other licensees to sell for off-premise consumption under conditions specified in the order and implementing orders to be issued by the Department of Consumer Protection.
    • Directs the temporary closure of barbershops, hair salons, tattoo or piercing parlors, and related businesses effective at 8:00 p.m. on Friday.
    • Expands the ability of patients and doctors to use telehealth for healthcare services.
    • Temporarily suspends in-person investigation visits regarding suspected elder abuse and extends timelines for reporting investigation results.
  • In addition to the State Laboratory, there are now 15 alternative sites in Connecticut that are offering drive-through testing.
  • Jackson Labs is partnering with the state to improve the capacity to process tests that are conducted in the state.
  • Department of Transportation is making changes to its bus operations to ensure the safety of passengers and drivers.
  • Amid continuing volatility in the financial markets, Banking Commissioner Perez is reassuring Connecticut residents that their money remains safe in banks and credit unions.

To read the governor's full press release with additional details and information, please click HERE.