Agribusiness General Information | Business Services | COVID-19 Information
As Connecticut’s coronavirus response efforts continue to roll out, the number of positive cases and hospitalizations has decreased as the rate of vaccination has increased. Governor Lamont announced plans to eliminate most of the state’s COVID-19 restrictions for every sector by May 19, 2021, with the exception of certain mask requirements that will remain in effect.
To remain in compliance with the lifting of restrictions, the Department of Agriculture, has removed all guidance documents specific to agriculture. Agriculture businesses, non-profits, and other organizations should follow the sector rules that apply to them.
Any questions should be directed to AGR.COVID19@ct.gov.
Masks and Face Covering Requirements: Pursuant to Executive Order No. 7NNN, masks or cloth face coverings that cover a person's nose and mouth are required to be worn when in public and a six-foot distance is unavoidable, whether indoors or outdoors. This does not apply to anyone for whom doing so would be contrary to their health because of a medical condition. Guidance on face coverings has been issued to the state's businesses. To make a face covering at home, watch this video from the CDC.
Sector rules in effect throughout Connecticut: As Connecticut continues taking steps to protect residents from the spread of COVID-19, the state has established specific rules for various sectors to keep people safe. Here are all of the rules currently in effect that apply for each sector.
Most sector rules will be eliminated by May 19, 2021: Governor Lamont has announced plans to eliminate most of the state's COVID-19 restrictions for every sector by May 19, 2021, with the exception of certain mask requirements that will remain in effect. The changes will include:
Effective Saturday, May 1, 2021
- The curfew for restaurants, entertainment venues, recreation venues, and theaters will be moved back one hour to 12:00 am midnight.
- Bars that do not serve food can open for service – OUTDOOR ONLY. Food is still required when serving alcohol indoors.
- The 8-person per table limit will be lifted – OUTDOOR ONLY. The limit remains in effect for indoor dining.
Effective Wednesday, May 19, 2021
- All remaining business restrictions will end.
- Indoor masks will continue.
- The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) will issue recommendations for indoor and large outdoor events (e.g., concerts).
Find the most current sector rules guidance at www.ct.gov/coronavirus.
Below we have archived information from various sources related to COVID-19 for your reference.
AGRIBUSINESS GENERAL INFORMATION
COVID-19 Vaccination & the Food and Agriculture Sector from the FDA
Unemployment Insurance Benefits for Farmers/Ranchers (Webinar recording)
What Ag Producers Need to Know About COVID-19 (recorded 3/23/2020) Agrisafe Network
USDA FSA and NRCS Service Center Information
Direct to Consumer Sales Software Platforms from the National Young Farmers Coalition
Extension to Connecticut Filing Deadline for Certain Annual State Business Tax Returns
SBA Disaster Relief Loan Fact Sheets in English and Spanish (for aquaculture, nursery, agricultural cooperatives, and producer cooperatives)
COVID-19 Guidance from the National Milk Producers Federation
COVID Fact Sheet for Dairy Herds (Available in English and Spanish)
AVMA Disaster Preparedness for Livestock & Large Animals
COVID-19 Consideration for Animal Activities at Fairs, Shows, and Other Events- From the CDC
COVID-19 Farmworker Testing FAQ (Updated March 10, 2021)
Pets and Other Animals- From the CDC
State Public Health Veterinarians and Animal Health Officials- From the CDC
COVID-19 Recommendations for Pet Stores, Pet Distributors, and Pet Breeding Facilities- from the CDC