COVID-19
Our staff is available at any time via email and on the phone at (203) 757-0701.
Stay Up-to-DateThe latest from the Center for Disease Control: https://twitter.com/CDCgov
The latest from Governor Ned Lamont: https://twitter.com/GovNedLamont View the State of Connecticut wepage for local updates on COVID-19. Trinity Health Of New England has activated a COVID-19 hotline for the community, staffed by clinicians to provide updated information and answers to frequently asked questions. The hotline number is 1-888-786-2790 and it is available every day from 8:00 am – 8:00 pm. https://www.stmh.org/waterbury Waterbury Hospital's COVID-19 Resources: https://www.waterburyhospital.org/coronavirus/ How Are Businesses Being Affected? View the Results of Advance CT's Business Survey Below Curbside CommerceArea restaurants offering takeout and delivery options:
Discover other businesses offering curbside services here:
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A Message From Our President
To Our Valued Members:
As more information continues to become available regarding the current COVID-19 situation, the team at the Waterbury Regional Chamber wants to assure you that we are working hard to keep you, our employees, and others in our community safe. We will continue to provide regular updates to our members as this situation evolves and appreciate your patience as we all navigate this fluid environment. Please scroll down for business resources, tips, and information. On the statewide call with business leaders across Connecticut, Gov. Ned Lamont stressed that the cooperation of CT’s population is KEY to curbing the spread of COVID-19 and avoiding even more widespread shutdowns. We are highly encouraging those of every age across the state to comply with the calls for distancing physically. Please continue to Stay Separate physically so we can all get through this with the least damage possible to our health, businesses, and communities, and Stay Social by continuing to do business and connect through all of the wonderful technology we have available to us. We are encouraging you to #StaySeparateStaySocial. Please pass it on and encourage others to do the same! Keep scrolling for our list of resources, which we are updating daily. Wishing you, your loved ones, and your business continued health. Lynn G. Ward President & CEO Waterbury Regional Chamber, Watertown Oakville Chamber, Naugatuck Chamber of Commerce See Lynn's interview with WFSB talking about the impact of COVID-19 on our local businesses: Click Here. View the Metro Chamber Alliance's letter to members of the federal government urging for a new stimulus package as of 12/22/2020: Click Here |
U.S. Chamber COVID-19 Vaccine Resource Center
The coronavirus pandemic prompted an unprecedented response from the nation’s business community. Now that safe and effective vaccines are available, the public- and private-sectors must rally around a common goal: Vaccinate America.
This Digital Resource Center includes information, tools, and templates that businesses of all sizes need during this critical phase of the pandemic response.
This Digital Resource Center includes information, tools, and templates that businesses of all sizes need during this critical phase of the pandemic response.
COVID Tracking Maps
A Covid-19 Vaccine distribution map on the state's website indicates the level of administration by town and city statewide
COVID-19 Alert Map shows the rate of new positive cases per town. With levels of infections still high across the state, a chart shows actions to follow for each level
COVID-19 Alert Map shows the rate of new positive cases per town. With levels of infections still high across the state, a chart shows actions to follow for each level
COVID Alert CT: App Tracks Possible Exposure
The state has launched new technology to help stop the spread of COVID-19 among our residents and families. With support from Apple and Google, we launched COVID Alert CT, a notification app to inform you of possible exposure to COVID-19 – all without disclosing your location or personal information.
This app is only as successful as the number of people who use it, which is why we ask that you share this information with employees, colleagues, family, and friends.
The app is available in multiple languages and can be used on Android and iPhone. Use the following link to download the Android app from the Google Play Store or click here to learn how to enable the app through the settings on your iPhone.
You can find out more at ct.gov/covidalertct.
This app is only as successful as the number of people who use it, which is why we ask that you share this information with employees, colleagues, family, and friends.
The app is available in multiple languages and can be used on Android and iPhone. Use the following link to download the Android app from the Google Play Store or click here to learn how to enable the app through the settings on your iPhone.
You can find out more at ct.gov/covidalertct.
Past Webinar Recordings
Webinar: PPP and CARES
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Webinar: DRS and myconneCT
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Virtual Meeting with Mayor Neil O'Leary 9/30/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Health Care Council Annual Awards Event 8/3/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Webinar: Expert Panel - COVID-19 Meeting with the Doctors 7/23/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Webinar: Best Practices for Teleworking during COVID-19 6/25/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Virtual Meeting with US Senator Chris Murphy 6/24/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Virtual Meeting with US Senator Richard Blumenthal 5/27/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Virtual Meeting with Gov. Ned Lamont on 5/22/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Virtual Meeting with Naugatuck Mayor Pete Hess on 5/19/2020:
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Access Password: 7d*W%^2+
Reopening CT and Bringing Employees Back to the Workplace: Maintaining a Safe and Effective Work Environment webinar presented by Pullman and Comley, LLC.
Webinar Recording: Click Here
For the Webinar Slides, Click Here
Virtual Meeting with Waterbury Mayor Neil O'Leary on 5/14/2020:
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Access Password: 4g@Mlo=J
Click Here to View Mayor O'Leary's Slide Presentation: mayorcovidpresgraphs.pptx
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Webinar: DRS and myconneCT
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Virtual Meeting with Mayor Neil O'Leary 9/30/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Health Care Council Annual Awards Event 8/3/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Webinar: Expert Panel - COVID-19 Meeting with the Doctors 7/23/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Webinar: Best Practices for Teleworking during COVID-19 6/25/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Virtual Meeting with US Senator Chris Murphy 6/24/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Virtual Meeting with US Senator Richard Blumenthal 5/27/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Virtual Meeting with Gov. Ned Lamont on 5/22/2020
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Virtual Meeting with Naugatuck Mayor Pete Hess on 5/19/2020:
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Access Password: 7d*W%^2+
Reopening CT and Bringing Employees Back to the Workplace: Maintaining a Safe and Effective Work Environment webinar presented by Pullman and Comley, LLC.
Webinar Recording: Click Here
For the Webinar Slides, Click Here
Virtual Meeting with Waterbury Mayor Neil O'Leary on 5/14/2020:
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Access Password: 4g@Mlo=J
Click Here to View Mayor O'Leary's Slide Presentation: mayorcovidpresgraphs.pptx
Virtual Meeting with Watertown Town Manager John Gavallas on 5/12/2020:
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Access Password: 3i@4h.67
Adapting and Communicating to Your Customers in a Time of Crisis Presented by Sullivan & LeShane Public Relations, Inc.
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Key Topics for Businesses Responding to the COVID-19 Pandemic: The CARES Act, the New Relief Package and Other Important Updates webinar presented by Pullman and Comley, LLC.
Webinar Recording: Click Here
Navigating Your Business Through the Storm by Summit Success Group
Webinar Recording: Click Here
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Access Password: 3i@4h.67
Adapting and Communicating to Your Customers in a Time of Crisis Presented by Sullivan & LeShane Public Relations, Inc.
Meeting Recording: Click Here
Key Topics for Businesses Responding to the COVID-19 Pandemic: The CARES Act, the New Relief Package and Other Important Updates webinar presented by Pullman and Comley, LLC.
Webinar Recording: Click Here
Navigating Your Business Through the Storm by Summit Success Group
Webinar Recording: Click Here
Resources for Businesses and Employers
The State of Connecticut's Online Business Portal full of updates and resources:
PPP Updated FAQs as of October (Added 10/13/2020)
SBA/US Treasury EZ and Revised Full Forgiveness Applications for PPP (Added 6/18/2020)
PPP Loan Forgiveness: A Step-By-Step Explainer with Q&A (Added 6/1/2020)
Restaurant Revitalization FundThe U.S. Small Business Administration has announced key details on application requirements, eligibility, and a program guide for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RFF). The SBA will administer $28.6 billion in funds to the hardest-hit small restaurants. Details on application requirements, eligibility, and a program guide are now available in English at https://buff.ly/3x8nzeY or in Spanish at https://buff.ly/3gkMfuv.
Financial ResourcesCARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act
Small Business Owner's Guide to the CARES Actfrom the US Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship: Small Business Emergency Loan Guide and Checklist from the US Chamer of Commerce:
The CARES Act Passed, What Do I Do Now? Helpful guidance provided by the CT Senate Republicans:
Paycheck Protection Program
(Added 4/2/2020) The Paycheck Protection Program provides small businesses with funds to pay up to 8 weeks of payroll costs including benefits. Funds can also be used to pay interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities. Learn more from the resources below. The Paycheck Protection Program is implemented by the Small Business Administration with support from the Department of the Treasury. Lenders should also visit www.sba.gov or www.coronavirus.gov for more information. Applicants must apply through an SBA-approved bank (best to use one you already have a relationship with) and complete the application form. SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans
Click below for more information on SBA Disaster Loans Webinar from the Community Economic Development Fund on How to apply for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan SBA Answer Desk can be reached at
1-800-827-5722 or email them at answerdesk@sba.gov FOR MANUFACTURERS (added 4/9/20)
Governor Lamont has announced that Connecticut manufacturers can apply for state grants of up to $75,000 to assist in the production of critical equipment and supplies needed to respond to the COVID-19 emergency. The grants, offered through the state’s Manufacturing Innovation Fund Voucher Program, can be used for working capital, new equipment, and other purposes that help companies build capacity or repurpose their operations. Funding for this short-term program is limited to $1.3 million and requires a one-to-one match from participating businesses. Learn more about the program and the application process by visiting https://ctmvp.ccat.us. Shuttered Venues Operators Grants
U.S. Small Business Administration: Shuttered Venues Operators Grants FAQs are not available. Start or Expand Your Business With Loans Guaranteed by the Small Business Administration
(Added 4/21/2021) 7(a) Loan Program: The SBA’s most common loan program, which includes financial help for businesses with special requirements. This is the best option when real estate is part of a business purchase, but it can also be used for:
504 Loans: Long-Term, Fixed Rate Financing of Up To $5 Million for Major Fixed Assets The CDC/504 Loan Program provides long-term, fixed rate financing of up to $5 million for major fixed assets that promote business growth and job creation. 504 loans are available through Certified Development Companies (CDCs), SBA's community-based partners who regulate nonprofits and promote economic development within their communities. CDCs are certified and regulated by the SBA. 504 loans are available exclusively through Certified Development Companies (CDCs). First, find a CDC in your area to ensure you are dealing with a qualified lender. Then begin to prepare and assemble your 504 loan authorization package, using our 504 Authorization File Library to identify the documentation you will need to apply for your 504 CDC loan Microloans: Smaller-Size Loans of up to $50,000 Provided Through SBA Funding Intermediaries The microloan program provides loans up to $50,000 to help small businesses and certain not-for-profit childcare centers start up and expand. The average microloan is about $13,000. The SBA provides funds to specially designated intermediary lenders, which are nonprofit community-based organizations with experience in lending as well as management and technical assistance. These intermediaries administer the Microloan program for eligible borrowers. Microloans are available through certain nonprofit, community-based organizations that are experienced in lending and business management assistance. Individual requirements will vary. To apply for a Microloan, work with an SBA-approved intermediary in your area. SBA-approved lenders make all credit decisions and set all terms for your microloan. To find an authorized microlender near you, contact your local SBA District Office Loans for Exporters Most U.S. banks view loans for exporters as risky. This can make it harder for you to get loans for things like day-to-day operations, advance orders with suppliers, and debt refinancing. That’s why the SBA created programs to make it easier for U.S. small businesses to get export loans. To learn how the SBA can help you get an export loan, contact Joseph Raycraft, International Trade Finance Specialist, New England at joseph.raycraft@sba.gov or (860) 241-5573. |
Employer GuidelinesWorkplace signage is among the state’s May 20 requirements for all employers—CBIA has the following posters available free for you to download, print, post, and share:
Guidance for When Employees Refuse to Return to Work
The Connecticut Department of Labor (CTDOL) and the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board (NRWIB) shared this guidance on steps to take if recalled employees refuse to return to work: On a sheet with your company letterhead, include: 1. Employee’s name 2. Employee’s Social Security Number 3. Employee’s scheduled return date 4. Date the employee refused the job Include your company’s name, address, phone/fax number, tax ID and Unemployment Insurance (UI) Tax ID number. Fax this information to: UI Merit Department (860) 263-6723. With this information, the Department will schedule an eligibility hearing to determine if the claimant (employee) remains eligible for the UI benefits. Both you and the employee will receive a hearing notice / packet that must be completed and returned to the Department for such decision. For more information, visit http://www.ctdol.state.ct.us/DOLCOVIDFAQ.PDF CT SAFE WORKPLACE RULES
The state Department of Economic and Community Development issued these mandatory protective measures that every workplace in Connecticut deemed essential—and any other business or nonprofit allowed to remain open during the pandemic—must follow. Click below to view the workplace rules. Families First Coronavirus Response Act
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) requires certain public employers and private employers with fewer than 500 employees to provide their employees with paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. Each covered employer must post in a conspicuous place on its premises a notice of FFCRA requirements. These provisions will apply from April 1, 2020, through December 31, 2020. Executive Order Directing Businesses to Employ Work from Home Policies
On March 20, 2020, The Governor issued Executive Order 7H, directing all businesses and nonprofit entities in the State of Connecticut to utilize, to the maximum extent possible, any telecommuting or work from home procedures that they can safely employ. That order also directed that, no later than March 23, 2020 at 8 p.m., each non-essential business or nonprofit entity shall reduce the in-person workforce at each business location by 100% from pre-state of emergency declaration employment levels. Click below for Business Exemptions for Coronavirus - Executive Order 7H Executive Order 7s: View the Safe Store Mandatory Rules Effective on April 3, 2020 (Added 4/2/2020)
The state Department of Labor’s Shared Work Program can help you keep skilled employees on the job until the economy improves, by making up for some wages lost by workers who have had their hours cut. To participate, an employer must complete an application for the affected unit(s) within the company and submit it to the CTDOL for approval.
COVID-19 Operating Guidelines for Connecticut's Arts & Culture industry
As of 5/6/2020 |
Other ResourcesWASH YOUR HANDS
It sounds simple enough, but there is a proper way to wash your hands to properly protect yourself. Click here to learn more. ASK AN EXPERT Free resources are available from some of our member attorneys, Click Below to Connect: MENTAL HEALTH WHILE STAYING HOME:
Looking for resources to support your employees' mental health while working from home? Click here. CONNECTIVITY:
Are YOU (and your company) ready to work from home? Take the Remote Work Readiness Assessment from NSI, and receive a report to help you understand your readiness and prioritize next steps. Internet Service Provider offerings:
HEALTH INSURANCE:
Do you need health insurance during this time for yourself or employees? Click Here to learn about and apply for coverage during Access Health CT's New Special Enrollment Period for these exceptional circumstances. INSURANCE PREMIUMS:
Gov. Lamont's Executive Order 7S provides a 60-day grace period for paying insurance premiums, meaning carriers can’t cancel anyone’s policy for lack of payment from April 1 to June 1. It is not a waiver; companies and individuals will still have to pay come June. The grace period, is NOT automatic. You have to apply to your insurance company to receive it. |
Employment Opportunities
NeedAJobNow.usNLx.com contains over 400,000 job openings and continues to grow daily. While many employers are downsizing their staff, others are significantly increasing their hiring efforts due to current demands. Through this initiative, DirectEmployers and National Association of State Workforce Agencies offers a way to bridge the gap between job supply and demand by offering an easy way for job seekers to gain access to current open positions and for employers to fill positions quickly and efficiently during these difficult times. (Added 4/2/2020)
Unemployment
If you become unemployed due to coronavirus (COVID-19), you should file for unemployment benefits. Eligibility will be determined on a case-by-case basis. To file your claim, go to www.filectui.com and click the blue button. For faster claims processing, have your return-to-work date, if known, and your employer’s registration number readily available. Answer YES to the question “Do you have a DEFINITE return to work date after today?” If you do not yet have a definite return-to-work date, enter 04/01/2020. If you do not have your employer’s registration number, enter 99-999-95. We are processing claims as quickly as possible and appreciate your patience during this difficult time.
Volunteer & Donation Opportunities
As Waterbury continues to prepare and respond to coronavirus, there are ways that every day citizens can directly help. Mayor O’Leary is calling on those who are healthy, able, and willing to volunteer to support the city's efforts. If you would like more information about how you can help, please call the city's Emergency Operation Center at 3-1-1 or call the Mayor's office at (203) 574-6712. Individuals answering those numbers will ask you for the information necessary to fill out the City of Waterbury Volunteer Intake Form. In addition, recently retired medical professionals who retired in good standing with the Department of Public Health (DPH), and currently licensed medical professionals who are in good standing with DPH (physicians, physician assistants, nurses, paramedics, EMT's, and all other certified allied health professions) are encouraged to call 3-1-1 if interested in supporting the city's response.
GIVING BACK:
This new program, 4-CT, has been set-up to provide critical funding to local community foundations, non-profits, homeless shelters, and the many local organizations providing assistance and services to people in communities across the state. (Added 4/1/2020)
This new program, 4-CT, has been set-up to provide critical funding to local community foundations, non-profits, homeless shelters, and the many local organizations providing assistance and services to people in communities across the state. (Added 4/1/2020)
DONATIONS TO LOCAL HOSPITALS
Consider donating the following to our local hospitals if you can (in original, unopened packaging):
Consider donating the following to our local hospitals if you can (in original, unopened packaging):
- Disposable head covers
- Disposable Gowns
- Disposable Gloves
- N95 respirator face masks
- Disposable face masks
- Face-shields/goggles
- Coveralls/scrubs
- Shoe-covers
- Disinfection wipes and liquids
- General-purpose hand cleaners
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DONATIONS FOR SAINT MARY'S HOSPITAL:
3D Printers to make masks - Email Ben Danker at Saint Mary’s Hospital at Benjamin.danker@trinityhealthne.org Information for All Other Donations - Click Here |
Student Loans
- All borrowers with federally held student loans (Federal Direct Loans, FFEL and Perkins) will automatically have their interest rates set to 0% for a period of at least 60 days by the federal government.
- In addition, each of these borrowers will have the option to suspend their payments for at least two months to allow them greater flexibility during the national emergency. This will allow borrowers to temporarily stop their payments without worrying about accruing interest. To request this forbearance, borrowers should contact their loan servicer online or by phone.
Tax Updates
Tax Payment Deadline Update - Treasury and IRS to delay tax filing deadline to July 15th. Full COVID-19 Federal Tax Relief information, including the economic impact payment, can be found here: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus
CT Filing Extensions: The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) has responded quickly to the COVID-19 outbreak in order to protect employees and taxpayers. Here are the details of the DRS tax payment extensions:
Sales and Use Tax
Has DRS extended the filing and payment deadlines for sales tax returns? (added 3/30/2020)
Yes, within the parameters outlined below.
What small business taxpayers qualify for this relief? (added 3/30/2020)
Taxpayers that have $150,000 or less in annual Sales Tax liability qualify for an automatic extension of time to file and pay. Similarly, taxpayers that have $150,000 or less in annual Room Occupancy Tax also qualify for this relief. A taxpayer that collects both Sales Tax and Room Occupancy Tax must evaluate each tax separately to determine eligibility for relief.
How does a taxpayer determine if it is a qualified small business? (added 3/30/2020)
Taxpayers are required to utilize a calendar year look back period of January 1, 2019, through December 31, 2019. Any taxpayer that reported $150,000 or less in tax during that period qualifies for the relief.
What returns are covered by this extension? (added 3/30/2020)
- For monthly Sales Tax and Room Occupancy Tax filers: returns and payments due March 31, 2020, and April 30, 2020, are extended to May 31, 2020.
- For quarterly Sales Tax and Room Occupancy Tax filers: returns and payments due April 30, 2020, are extended to May, 31, 2020.
Details are at https://portal.ct.gov/drs Additional updates will be posted to the DRS website.
NOTICE: Taxpayers are strongly encouraged to visit the DRS website for answers to many questions. You may also email DRS at drs@po.state.ct.us. If contacting DRS by phone, please plan for wait times that may be longer than usual. See DRS FAQ's, which now includes important information regarding Connecticut sales tax.
https://portal.ct.gov/DRS/COVID19/DRS-COVID-19-Response-FAQ
CT Filing Extensions: The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) has responded quickly to the COVID-19 outbreak in order to protect employees and taxpayers. Here are the details of the DRS tax payment extensions:
Sales and Use Tax
Has DRS extended the filing and payment deadlines for sales tax returns? (added 3/30/2020)
Yes, within the parameters outlined below.
What small business taxpayers qualify for this relief? (added 3/30/2020)
Taxpayers that have $150,000 or less in annual Sales Tax liability qualify for an automatic extension of time to file and pay. Similarly, taxpayers that have $150,000 or less in annual Room Occupancy Tax also qualify for this relief. A taxpayer that collects both Sales Tax and Room Occupancy Tax must evaluate each tax separately to determine eligibility for relief.
How does a taxpayer determine if it is a qualified small business? (added 3/30/2020)
Taxpayers are required to utilize a calendar year look back period of January 1, 2019, through December 31, 2019. Any taxpayer that reported $150,000 or less in tax during that period qualifies for the relief.
What returns are covered by this extension? (added 3/30/2020)
- For monthly Sales Tax and Room Occupancy Tax filers: returns and payments due March 31, 2020, and April 30, 2020, are extended to May 31, 2020.
- For quarterly Sales Tax and Room Occupancy Tax filers: returns and payments due April 30, 2020, are extended to May, 31, 2020.
Details are at https://portal.ct.gov/drs Additional updates will be posted to the DRS website.
NOTICE: Taxpayers are strongly encouraged to visit the DRS website for answers to many questions. You may also email DRS at drs@po.state.ct.us. If contacting DRS by phone, please plan for wait times that may be longer than usual. See DRS FAQ's, which now includes important information regarding Connecticut sales tax.
https://portal.ct.gov/DRS/COVID19/DRS-COVID-19-Response-FAQ
