Klarides-Ditria offers update on state response to COVID-19 outbreak

Dear Neighbors, I wanted to let you know some recent updates on government’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Early this morning, [Thursday] Gov. Lamont’s administration released a helpful compilation of frequently asked questions tied to the state’s response to this crisis. You can access the document by clicking here, and I’ve also posted it to my web site on my Coronavirus Information page.  Examples of questions include: How do I know if I should be tested for COVID-19, and where do I go to be tested? How do I apply for Unemployment Insurance benefits or get more information about the process and requirements? What options do I have if I do not have health insurance at present? Again, answers to those questions and many more are available in the FAQ document.  Gov. Lamont has also issued his eighth Executive Order in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Actions taken in today's Executive Order include the temporary closure of barbershops, hair salons, tattoo or piercing parlors, and related businesses effective at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 20, 2020. The postponement of Connecticut’s presidential primary from April 28 to June 2, 2020. And clearance for restaurants, bars, and private clubs to sell alcohol to be consumed off-premise under certain conditions. You can view the complete list of executive orders by clicking here. In addition to the Executive Order, the administration has taken several other initiatives to provide resources to Connecticut residents at this time of uncertainty. There are now 15 alternative sites in Connecticut that are offering drive-through testing - in addition to the state laboratory. The DOT is enhancing its guidelines along its bus routes to promote passenger safety. Banking Commissioner Perez has also made it clear to residents that their money remains safe in Connecticut's banks and credit unions. Remember, the state maintains a web portal dedicated to providing up-to-date information about the state's response to the outbreak. In order to provide accurate and timely information, my website has a special Coronavirus Information page that includes important local, state and federal links for your convenience. You can access the page at this link and if you have questions that are not answered by those resources, please reach out to me at nicole.klarides-ditria@housegop.ct.gov or 1-800-842-1423. While this is a difficult time for all of us, I want to make sure I share important information on this issue in a timely manner. Please remember to check in with your friends and neighbors to see how they are doing and let them know you are thinking about them. We will get through this together! Sincerely, State Rep. Nicole Klarides-Ditria