Connecticut Tourism Industry: COVID-19 Updates and Resources

As of: August 30, 2021

 

Connecticut Tourism-Related Updates:

  • Aug. 5: Mask and Face Covering Update

    • Municipal leaders now have the option to require masks to be worn in indoor public places within their respective towns and cities, regardless of vaccination status.

  • Aug. 1: Mask and Face Covering Update

    • CT DPH released a statement strongly recommending that ALL Connecticut residents over aged two years, whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, return to wearing masks when in indoor public spaces. Read the statement here.

  • Mask and Face Covering Requirements

    • The protocols that are currently in effect statewide are as follows: Outdoor: Masks not required. Indoor: Vaccinated not required to wear masks; Unvaccinated must wear masks; Masks are required to be worn by everyone in certain settings such as healthcare facilities, facilities housing vulnerable populations, public and private transit, correctional facilities, schools, and childcare; Businesses and state and local government offices have the option to require masks to be worn by everyone in their establishments. Read more here.

  • May 19: Business Sector Rules in Effect

    • All of the business sector rules that were previously enacted to prevent the spread of COVID-19 have been lifted, except for the updated mask requirements. These changes are contingent upon a low incidence of COVID-19 and the Connecticut population continuing to get vaccinated.

  • April 27: The Connecticut Restaurant Association is partnering with Gov. Lamont and the State of Connecticut to launch the #CTDrinksOnUs campaign.

    • Learn more about the campaign and sign up your businesses here. 

  • April 19: Governor Lamont Announces Plans to Further Ease Some COVID-Related Restrictions.

    • Governor Lamont announced that over the coming weeks he plans to further ease some of the restrictions on certain sectors that were put into effect at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read the announcement here.

      • Effective May 1, 2021:

        • Bars that do not serve food can open for service on an outdoor-only basis. These establishments will still be prohibited from serving only alcohol indoors
        • The 8-person per table limit will be lifted for outdoors only. This limit will remain in effect for indoor service.
        • The curfew for restaurants, entertainment venues, recreation venues, and theaters will be moved back an hour to midnight.

      • Effective May 19, 2021:

        • Contingent upon sufficiently low rates of infections and increasing vaccination rates, all remaining business restrictions will be lifted. The Department of Public Health will issue recommendations for indoor and other large outdoor events, such as concerts, as well as clarify where masking will continue after May 19. 

  • March 18: Updated Sector Rules for Reopen Available.

  • March 18: Gov. Lamont Signs Executive Order No. 10D.

    • Relaxation of capacity limits for religious, spiritual, or worship gatherings.

    • Repeal of mandatory travel advisory and self-quarantine requirements.

    • Read more here.

  • March 4: Trout Fishing Season Opening Early to Encourage Social Distancing, Anglers Reminded to Exercise Caution if Fishing on Late-Season Ice.

    • Executive Order No. 10B removes prohibitions on fishing for trout, effectively advancing opening day of trout season from April 10, 2021 to today, March 4, 2021. Learn more.

  • March 4: Gov. Lamont Announces Plans To Ease Some COVID-19 Restrictions in Connecticut Beginning Friday, March 19. 

    • Gov. Ned Lamont announced that in the coming days he plans to revise some requirements that were implemented in Connecticut in the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly when it comes to those relating to capacity levels and travel restrictions. Read the announcement here.

  • Feb 16: Gov. Lamont Announces Potential Next Steps for Expanding Capacity of Social and Recreational Events.

    • Gov. Lamont today announced that his administration is considering expanding the capacity of private, social, and recreational events at commercial venues beginning on Friday, March 19, 2021. Learn more here. 

  • Jan. 19: PPP Now Open to All Participating Lenders

  • Dec. 29: Federal Stimulus Package Includes $325B for Small Businesses.

  • Dec. 19: New Guidelines for Connecticut’s COVID-19 Travel Advisory

    • Effective at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, December 19, 2020, the revised Connecticut COVID-19 Travel Advisory will: 1) Apply to all travelers – both foreign and domestic – entering Connecticut from any location, except for the neighboring states of New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island; and 2) Require all affected travelers to complete the Connecticut Travel Health Form (available at ct.gov/travelform) and self-quarantine for a period of 10 days or until a negative COVID-19 test result. There will be three exemptions from the requirement to self-quarantine. Learn more here.

  • Dec. 15: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Dec. 8: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Nov. 24: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Nov. 20: Updated Sector Rules For Team Sports, Gyms, and Fitness Centers.

    • The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development published updated sector rules regarding team sports, as well as gyms and fitness centers. These rules take effect Monday, November 23.

  • Nov. 17: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Nov. 12: Apply Today: Connecticut CARES Small Business & Nonprofit Grants Now Available

    • DECD is accepting applications for the Connecticut CARES Small Business Grant Program. Small businesses and nonprofits in Connecticut with a 2019 annualized payroll of less than $1.5 million OR 20 or fewer employees can receive a one-time grant of $5,000. Learn more and apply. 

  • Nov. 10: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Nov. 5: Updated Business Sector Rules and Certification Page for Phase 2.1

    • Learn more about Phase 2.1 – a slightly modified version of Phase 2. The page includes a comparison of Phases 2, 2.1 and 3 rules, as well as updated guidance on the capacity limits for many types of social gatherings. See the updated rules and certification page.

  • Nov. 3: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Nov. 2: Connecticut Will Roll Back to Phase 2.1 Rules Beginning Friday, Nov. 6.

    • Gov. Lamont announced that due to the steadily increasing rate of COVID-19 in Connecticut, he is ordering the entire state to roll back to Phase 2.1 rules – a slightly modified version of the previously enacted Phase 2 rules – effective at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, November 6. Read more here. 

  • Oct. 27: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Oct. 20: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Oct 20: $50M Grant Program for Small Businesses and Nonprofits.

    • Gov. Lamont announced that he is creating the Connecticut CARES Small Business Grant Program to assist small businesses and nonprofits that have been impacted by the economic downturn caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic. The program will provide businesses and nonprofits in Connecticut that have fewer than twenty employees or a 2019 payroll of less than $1.5 million with a one-time grant of $5,000. Read more here. 

  • Oct. 19: Grant Program To Support Connecticut's Arts Community Amid COVID-19 Pandemic.

    • Gov. Lamont announced that the State of Connecticut will be providing up to $9 million in grants to certain nonprofit arts organizations in the state to help them recover more quickly from the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Read more here. 

  • Oct. 13: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Oct. 8: Phase 3 Reopening Begins October 8.

  • Oct. 6: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Sept. 30: New Programs To Support Those Who Need To Isolate or Self-Quarantine Due To COVID-19 Infection or Exposure.

    • Gov. Lamont announced that his administration has launched a variety of new resources to support those who need to isolate or self-quarantine due to COVID-19. Read more here. 

  • Sept. 29: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Sept. 25: Extension Of Prohibition On Sale Of Alcohol By Certain Permittees Without The Sale Of Food.

    • Gov. Lamont signed Executive Order No. 9D, which extends the previously enacted prohibition on the sale of alcohol by certain permittees without the sale of food until at least November 9, 2020.

  • Sept. 24: Governor Lamont Announces Connecticut Moves Toward Phase 3 Reopening on October 8. Read more here. 

    • Business changes in Phase 3 will include:

    • Increase from 50 percent to 75 percent capacity indoors – subject to COVID-19 safety requirements – for restaurants, personal services, hair salons, barber shops, and libraries;

    • Outdoor event venues (e.g. 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; and

    • Bars and nightclubs will continue to remain closed.

    • Phase 3 also includes changes to the sizes of gatherings.

  • Sept. 22: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Sept. 15: Governor Lamont Signed Executive Order No. 9B, Enacting Provisions Including:

    • Amendments to mandatory self-quarantine for travelers from states with high COVID-19 levels. Modifies the state’s previously issued self-quarantine and travel advisory order for people arriving to Connecticut from impacted states, expanding the testing exemption to all travelers who test negative for COVID-19 in the 72 hours prior to arrival. This takes effect at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, September 18, 2020.

    • Authorization for the issuance of fines. Authorizes the commissioner of Public Health, local health departments, municipal chief elected officers, and state and local police to issue fines for violations of certain COVID-19 protective measures.

    • Repeal of executive orders extending liquor permittee credit period.

  • Sept 15: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Sept. 8: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • Sept. 1: Gov. Lamont Extends Connecticut's State of Emergency in Response To the COVID-19 Pandemic To February 9.

  • Sept. 1: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • August 25: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • August 21: Lamont Administration Extends Expanded Outdoor Dining Through November 12 And Modifies Liquor Credit Extension.

  • August 18: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • August 11: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • August 4: Weekly Connecticut Travel Advisory Update

  • July 28: States Added to the Travel Advisory.

  • July 23: Updated Industry Rules Now Available.

    • DECD has made some updates to its industry-specific rules after consulting with industry leaders and public health officials. These updates provide more specific guidance, as well as new recommendations for a broad range of sectors. Learn more here.

  • July 22: Executive Order Regarding Travel.

    • Pursuant to Governor Lamont's Executive Order No. 7III, anyone traveling into Connecticut from a state that has a new daily positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents, or a state with a 10% or higher positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average, is required to self-quarantine for a 14-day period from the time of last contact within the identified state. In addition, anyone entering from one of the identified states must fill out a travel health form upon arrival. Travelers can fill out the form online at ct.gov/travelform. As of July 21, 2020 there are a total of 31 states that meet the criteria. See the list here.

  • July 14: States Added to the Travel Advisory.

    • All Individuals traveling from states with significant community spread of COVID-19 must self-quarantine for 14 days. As of Tuesday, July 14, there are 22 states that meet the criteria. See the list here.

  • July 6: Congress Extends Paycheck Protection Program 5 Weeks.

    • The U.S. Congress just passed a bipartisan bill to extend the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) until August 8. The five-week extension gives small businesses and nonprofits additional time to tap into the remaining $130 billion in PPP funds. Learn more.

  • June 30: States Added to the Travel Advisory.

    • All Individuals traveling from states with significant community spread of COVID-19 must self-quarantine for 14 days. As of Tuesday, June 30, there are currently sixteen states that meet the criteria. See the list here.

  • June 30: Signage Available for Businesses.

    • DECD has developed new signage that outlines four consistent actions that help stop the spread of COVID-19. Companies are encouraged to use these signs, post or share them with employees or networks, and display them on-site. The "Stop the Spread" sign (available in English and Spanish) and other signage is available here.

  • June 24: All Individuals Traveling From States With Significant Community Spread of COVID-19 Must Self-Quarantine for 14 Days.

    • Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo of New York, and Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey announced a joint incoming travel advisory that all individuals traveling from states with significant community spread of COVID-19 self-quarantine for a 14-day period from the time of last contact within the identified state. The self-quarantine – effective 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 – applies to any person arriving from a state with a positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents or a state with a 10 percent or higher positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average. Read the press release here. See the list of states involved and FAQs. 

  • June 16: Modifications To Adapt To Phase 2 Reopening Efforts.

    • Governor Lamont signed Executive Order No. 7ZZ enacting modifications to several previously issued executive orders affecting hotels/lodging; indoor dining; personal services; sport and fitness facilities; amusement parks; and museums, zoos, and aquariums. The order addresses restrictions on large gatherings and events, provides further clarification of limits on alcohol sales, and more. Read the press release here.

  • June 8: Connecticut’s River Ferries To Resume Operations June 20.

    • The Connecticut Department of Transportation announced that the state’s two ferries that provide service across the Connecticut River – one between Rocky Hill and Glastonbury and the other between Chester and Hadlyme – will resume operations beginning Saturday, June 20, 2020. Typically, the ferries begin operating April 1. Read more here. 

  • June 7: State Campgrounds To Open For Summer Season On July 8.

    • Campers at DEEP campgrounds with recreational vehicles (RVs) will be able to keep their reservations for dates starting July 1, with reopening for both tent and RV camping on July 8. Anyone with reservations before these dates will receive refunds. Campers can begin making new reservation for the reason using the online reservation system beginning on June 20. Learn more here. 

  • June 7: Phase 2 Reopen Rules by Sector Announced.

    • Governor Lamont announced that his administration has released documents detailing specific rules that eligible businesses falling under phase 2 of Connecticut’s reopening plans must follow amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The second phase takes effect Wednesday, June 17. Read more here. 

  • June 5: Important Changes to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

    • The U.S. Congress passed a bipartisan bill called the Paycheck Protection Flexibility Act that makes several important changes to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Read the letter from DECD commissioner David Lehman, here.

  • June 5: Phase 2 Will Begin June 17, 2020.

    • Governor Lamont announced that Phase 2 of Connecticut's Reopening Plan, originally scheduled to begin on June 20, will now begin three days earlier on June 17. Additional safety guidance for businesses that fall under Phase 2 will be released early next week.

  • May 29: Limits On All Social And Recreational Gatherings Are Raised To 10 People Indoors And 25 People Outdoors.

  • May 26: Governor Lamont Releases Reopen Connecticut Report.

    • Governor Lamont released his Reopen Connecticut report, which contains recommendations from the Reopen Connecticut Advisory Group. Read the report here.

  • May 20: Phase 2 & 3 Business Sectors To Open Announced.

    • Governor Lamont presented details about Phase 2 and Phase 3 of Connecticut’s reopening plan. Phase 2, beginning on approximately June 20, includes accommodations (no bar areas); gyms, fitness and sports clubs; outdoor arts, entertainment and events (up to 50 people); outdoor amusement parks; movie theaters; bowling alleys; social clubs and pools; all museums, zoos and aquariums; and, restaurants (indoor, no bar). Watch the press conference here.

  • May 20: DEEP Outlines State Park Operations Plan Heading Into Summer Season.

    • The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) released an operation plan that outlines current guidelines around the operation and use of Connecticut state park grounds, trails, beaches, boat launches, and other areas amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The resource is available at portal.ct.gov/deep-parkscovid19.

  • May 18: Reopen Resource Guide Now Available.

    • Working with community and business leaders from around the state, DECD developed a guide to help small businesses manage the reopening process while complying with the new COVID-19 safety rules. The guide includes valuable information about Financial Needs, Employee Training & Support, Physical Layout and List of Suppliers. Read more here.

  • May 18: Governor Lamont Signed Executive Order No. 7P.

    • The Executive Order repeals several previously enacted executive orders to allow for the safe reopening of certain sectors of the economy on May 20; extends the prohibition of large gatherings; allows for the sale of mixed drinks for takeout and delivery by various liquor permittees under certain conditions; and more. Read the announcement here.

  • May 18: Businesses Reminded To Verify Insurance Coverage During Reopening.

  • May 15: Infrared Thermometers Now Available to Connecticut Small Businesses and Nonprofits.

    • In partnership with the Connecticut Business and Industry Association and CONNSTEP, the state is distributing 50,000 infrared thermometers to eligible small businesses, nonprofits, and places of worship as they begin the reopening process. Learn more here.

  • May 14: Companies Required To Self-Certify Prior To Reopening On May 20.

    • Connecticut businesses eligible to open on or soon after May 20 are required to self-certify to demonstrate they understand and will comply with COVID-19 rules and regulations set by the state. The self-certification process is quick and available online at business.ct.gov/recovery.

    • Sector rules for reopening a business—including restaurants (outdoor dining only), retail and malls, and museums and zoos (outdoor only)—were published on May 9. Read the rules here. 

  • May 12: Expedited Changes To Zoning Rules, Other Ordinances.

    • Governor Lamont signed Executive Order No. 7MM enacting provisions relevant to municipalities, restaurants and retail. Read more here.

  • May 9: Rules for Businesses Under First Phase of Connecticut’s Reopening Plans Amid COVID-19

    • Governor Lamont released documents describing detailed protocols necessary for certain businesses to operate beginning May 20. Read more here.

  • May 7: $110B in Funding Remains for Small Businesses and Non-Profits.

    • DECD Commissioner David Lehman announced that just over $110 billion in funding remains for the second round of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Read more here.

  • April 30: Select Tourism Businesses Included in Phase 1 of Connecticut's Reopening Plan.

    • Governor Lamont outlined a phased-in approach to reopening Connecticut’s economy. Phase 1, which could begin on May 20, includes restaurants (outdoor only, no bar areas); remaining retail; museums and zoos (outdoor only); and, additional outdoor recreation (e.g., camping, mountain biking). Read the announcement here.

  • April 25: Free Face Coverings For Small Businesses.

    • Governor Lamont announced that his administration is partnering with the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA) and its affiliate CONNSTEP on an initiative to distribute free face coverings to eligible, essential small businesses with fewer than 50 employees. Read more here.

  • April 24: $370B in COVID-19 Relief Available for Small Businesses.

    • U.S. Congress has passed a spending bill that expands funding to critical COVID-19 relief programs. Learn more here. 

  • April 20: Connecticut Office Of The Arts Announces Grants Available For Connecticut Artists Impacted By Pandemic.

  • April 18: Marinas, Boatyards And Marine Manufacturers Allowed To Open For Personal Use.

  • April 17: Cloth Face Coverings or Higher Level of Protection Required in Public Wherever Close Contact is Unavoidable.

  • April 13: Creation Of Group Of Health And Business Experts Who Will Provide Advice And Recommendations On The Reopening Of Connecticut’s Economy.

    • Created by the nonprofit organization AdvanceCT, the reopen Connecticut advisory group will provide recommendations to the Lamont administration as the nation emerges from COVID-19. Read the announcement here.

  • April 13: Multi-State Council to Get People Back to Work and Restore the Economy.

    • Council will 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. Read the announcement here.

  • April 10: All Closures and Safety Measures—Including For Restaurants, Bars and Retail Stores, Extended Through May 20.

    • Governor Lamont signed Executive Order No. 7X, extending all previously enacted closures, distancing, and safety measures – including for schools, restaurants, bars, retail stores, gyms, and other establishments – through at least May 20, 2020. In addition, it permits food trucks to operate at certain highway rest areas. Read the announcement here.

  • April 9: Suspension and Modification of Tax Deadlines, Collection Efforts. Changes to Certain Requirements, Permits. Financial Assistance For Minority and Women-Owned Small Businesses.

  • April 7: Safe Workplaces in Essential Businesses. Grants Available to Connecticut Manufacturers Producing Needed COVID-19 Supplies.

    • Governor Lamont signed Executive Order No. 7V, enacting provisions that require the development of legally binding statewide rules prescribing additional protective measures for workplaces. Governor Lamont also announced that Connecticut manufacturers can now apply for grants to assist in the production of critical equipment and supplies needed to respond to the COVID-19 emergency. Read the announcement here.

  • April 6: Learn About State and Federal Resources. 

    • On Thursday, April 9, from 1 to 2 p.m, DECD is bringing together representatives from the Connecticut Insurance Department, the Department of Banking and the Small Business Administration for a conference call to provide more details on state and federal COVID-19 relief programs and answer key questions. Read more here. 

  • April 4: Connecticut’s Tourism Office Promotes Local Restaurants Offering Take-Out and Delivery Services, Provides Virtual At-Home Activities.

    • The State of Connecticut’s Tourism Office has shifted its focus from its usual promotional activities to adjust to the public health emergency and Governor Lamont’s order for residents to “Stay Safe, Stay Home.” The state’s official tourism website, CTVisit.com, has been adapted to reflect this new reality and is featuring a number activities residents can either do in secluded locations or safely at home through virtual experiences. Read the announcement here.

  • April 3: Small Businesses Can Apply for Federal Assistance Under CARES Act. Connecticut Labor Department Provides Updates.

    • Governor Lamont issued an update, including reminding small businesses they can apply for federal assistance. The Connecticut Department of Labor also provided updates following the number of unemployment benefits applications.

  • April 2: Prohibition on Non-Essential Lodging. Further Clarification of Limits on Restaurants, Bars, and Private Clubs.

    • Governor Lamont issued an update and signed Executive Order No. 7T, enacting provisions including prohibiting all hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts, and short-term residential rentals (including those arrange through online hosting platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo) from renting to customers for leisure or vacation purposes and permitting, under certain conditions, food establishments and liquor manufacturers to deliver alcoholic liquor and allows additional manufacturers to sell alcoholic liquor for pick-up and delivery.

  • April 1: Safe Stores Mandatory Statewide Rules. Extension of 30-Day Period of Credit for Liquor Permittees.

    • Governor Lamont issued an update and signed Executive Order No. 7S, enacting provisions including safe store rules and an extension of credit for liquor permittees. DECD published the Safe Stores Rules on its website, outlining guidance for retail establishments. All stores must follow these rules beginning April 3.

  • March 31: Restrictions on Entrance to State Parks, Forests, and Other Lands. Curbside Pickup of Alcoholic Beverages Permitted.

  • March 30: Department of Revenue Services Extends Filing and Payment Deadlines for Certain Small Businesses.

    • At the direction of Governor Lamont to provide Connecticut small businesses with immediate administrative tax relief in recognition of the impact of COVID-19, the Department of Revenue Services (DRS) today announced that it is granting a two-month extension of filing and payment deadlines for certain small businesses. Read more here.

  • March 30: Federal Assistance for Connecticut Businesses and Nonprofits.

  • March 27: DECD Doubles First Round of Funding for Connecticut Recovery Bridge Loan Program to $50 Million, Hits Pause On New Applications.

    • Read the announcement here. 

  • March 26: No Crowds Over 5. Restrictions on Restaurant Payment and Pickup, Retail.

    • Governor Lamont issued an update and signed Executive Order No. 7N enacting provisions including restricting all social and recreational gatherings to no more than five people; restricting restaurant payment and pickup operations; and, further restricting retail operations.

  • March 26: Connecticut Recovery Bridge Loan Program Announced.

    • Governor Lamont announced that Connecticut small businesses and nonprofits that have been negatively impacted by the global spread of the COVID-19 pandemic can now apply for one-year, no-interest loans of up to $75,000 under the launch of a new program administered by the state’s Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD). Read the announcement here.

  • March 24: Early Opening of Fishing Season.

    • Governor Lamont provided an update and signed Executive Order No. 7L, which enacts provisions including the early opening of the fishing season, effective immediately.

  • March 23: IRS Providing “Full and Immediate” Reimbursement for COVID-19 Employee Medical Leave Costs.

    • Connecticut businesses are urged to note that the IRS is providing a “full and immediate” reimbursement for COVID-19 employee medical leave costs. For more information on this, read the press release issued by CID.

  • March 22: Guidance for Businesses and Nonprofits on “Stay Safe, Stay Home” Executive Order.

  • March 20: “Stay Safe, Stay Home” Order Issued. All Non-Essential Businesses and Not-for-Profit Entities to Prohibit In-Person Functions.

    • Governor Lamont signed Executive Order No. 7H, directing all non-essential businesses and not-for-profit entities in Connecticut to prohibit all in-person functions if they are able to, effective Monday, March 23, 2020 at 8 p.m. The governor is calling this his “Stay Safe, Stay Home” initiative. Read the announcement here.

  • March 19: Most Alcohol Sales OK with Take-Out Orders. Temporary Closure of Barbershops, Hair Salons, Spas.

    • Governor Lamont issued an update and signed Executive Order No. 7G enacting provisions including permitting certain restaurants and other eating establishments to sell alcohol with take-out food orders under certain conditions and the temporary closure of barbershops, hair salons, tattoo or piercing parlors, and related businesses.

  • March 19: FAQs on Connecticut’s Actions Related to COVID-19.

  • March 18: Temporary Closure of Large Shopping Malls, Places of Public Amusement.

    • Governor Lamont issued an update and signed Executive Order No. 7F enacting provisions including the temporary closure of large shopping malls and places of public amusement.

  • March 18: Additional Guidance to Restaurants and Bars. Farmers’ Markets and Stands Can Remain Open.

    • Governor Lamont provided additional guidance to restaurants and bars about Executive Order No. 7D, which limits these establishments to take-out and delivery services only.

    • The Department of Agriculture affirmed farmers’ markets and farm stands can remain open.

  • March 17: DECD Launching COVID-19 Business Response Unit. Business Survey Available Now.

    • The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) is launching the COVID-19 Business Emergency Response Unit, which will be dedicated to helping businesses in Connecticut navigate the resources available to them during this crisis.

    • DECD and Advance CT began distributing a comprehensive survey to businesses to get information on what types of resources they need throughout the duration of this pandemic. Businesses interested in participating in this survey can access it here.

  • March 16: Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan Tribal Nations to Temporarily Close Properties.

    • The Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan Tribal Nations will temporarily close casino and resort properties on sovereign reservation lands in eastern Connecticut amid concerns about the coronavirus, per an agreement announced tonight by Governor Lamont.

  • March 16: Connecticut Businesses Eligible for Disaster Relief Loans.

    • Governor Lamont announced that small businesses and nonprofit organizations in Connecticut that have been negatively impacted by the global COVID-19 outbreak are now eligible for disaster relief loans of up to $2 million from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Read more here.

  • March 16: No Crowds Over 50. Restaurants and Bars Take-Out/Delivery Only. Temporary Closure of Off-Track Betting Facilities, Gyms, Movie Theaters.

    • Governor Lamont provided an update and signed Executive Order No. 7D enacting provisions including further reducing large crowds; limiting restaurants and bars to take-out and delivery services only; and, temporary closure of off-track betting facility operations, gyms, fitness studios and movie theaters.

  • March 14: Service Changes on Shore Line East and Hartford Line.

    • Governor Lamont provided an update, including service changes on Shore Line East and Hartford Line. For a list of the service changes, click here.

  • March 13: DEEP Temporarily Closing Visitor Centers and Facilities, Suspending Large Gatherings.

    • Governor Lamont provided an update on Connecticut’s coronavirus response efforts, including a temporary suspension of certain state agency programs and services.

  • March 12: No Crowds Over 250.

    • Governor Lamont signed an executive order that takes several actions, including prohibiting all events in the state with over 250 people.

 

 

State of Connecticut Resources:

For the most up-to-date information from the State of Connecticut, visit Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Other helpful links:

 

 

Additional Resources for Businesses:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

World Health Organization:

 

 

Connecticut Office of Tourism Updates:

Recent Emails:

Other News:

  • Connecticut Conference on Tourism Postponed.

    • The Connecticut Office of Tourism recently announced its decision to postpone the Connecticut Conference on Tourism, originally scheduled for April 29, 2020, at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford. COT staff will be processing refunds for all those who have paid registrations.

 

 

Travel Industry News:

 

 

Tourism Marketing Update: