From our State Senator, Norm Needleman.
(April 20, 2020) — I want to provide you an update on the state’s response to COVID-19 pandemic. Please remember to practice social distancing and wash your hands. Please contact my office Needleman@senatedems.ct.gov or 860-240-0428 if you have any questions or concerns.
Face Coverings Mandatory In Public
As of 8:00 p.m. today, Monday April 20, members of the public will be required to wear face coverings in public whenever close contact with other people will be unavoidable, according to an executive order signed by Governor Lamont.
When individuals cannot maintain safe social distancing, such as in stores, in public transportation or in other enclosed spaces, they should cover their faces with masks or cloth face coverings. This includes employees working in businesses. Anyone who has a medical condition that would make them unable to safely wear a face covering, any child under the age of 2, or any child whose guardian is unable to safely place a mask on their face are exempt from the mandate.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, wearing a cloth face covering is intended to slow the spread of COVID-19, particularly in the event that an individual is a carrier of the virus and is not experiencing symptoms. Wearing a face covering is expected to sharply decrease the ability of the virus to transfer from person to person. Additionally, cloth masks are not a replacement for social distancing and continuing to practice hygiene; those steps should continue to be followed whenever possible.
AdvanceCT Business Survey
AdvanceCT, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing economic competition in Connecticut, has launched a second survey for state businesses with a goal of providing continued feedback to state leaders regarding business impact of COVID-19. These survey results will be used to prioritize economic recovery initiatives. The survey can be accessed here.
New Haven Rapid Testing Center Seeing Results
Friday, April 17 was the first day of operations at the state’s first Rapid Testing Center in New Haven, and health care officials feel confident that the 612 tests administered there on Friday indicate a successful ramping-up in testing availability. The site uses a rapid test that can provide test results in just 30 minutes from sample collection to test results being known. It’s estimated about 750 tests can be performed there seven days a week. The tests are provided at no cost.
Any interested person must register online and make an appointment prior to arrival; unlike other test centers, patients don’t need to be referred by doctors prior to testing. Appointments can be made at www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing.
Stress-Relief “Talk It Out” Hotline Launched
Parents and caretakers who are experiencing increased stress and struggling with the needs resulting from caring for children during COVID-19 are invited to call the new “Talk It Out” hotline. Trained professionals are ready to listen to and speak with those in need about concerns and potentially connect individuals with responsive services. Parents and caretakers are asked to call 1-833-258-5011 or visit www.talkitoutct.com for more information and to receive relief.
Presidential Primary Postponed To August 11
To protect voters’, poll workers’ and vulnerable individuals’ health and safety, Governor Lamont has postponed the presidential primary to August 11. Originally, the primary was scheduled for April 28, and was initially rescheduled to June 2 before the second delay. This new date correlates with state and local primaries already scheduled, likely assisting voting turnout and increasing participation in the voting process.
Recognizing First Responders
As a thank you and a sign of recognition for all our first responders on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic are doing to fight the disease, the Ivoryton Playhouse has turned on lights on its tree and gazebo, with hearts designed on the green in front of the gazebo. They will remain on through the end of the pandemic.
