Stay Informed

The most current information on the full response to COVID-19 in Vermont can be found on the Department of Health website at: healthvermont.gov/covid19. The latest amendments to Governor Scott’s emergency declaration include:

• Governor Scott has directed childcare centers across the state to close normal operations, except those serving workers who are essential to Vermont’s ongoing effort in community mitigation of COVID-19. The Agency of Education will continue to provide additional details on guidance for schools and childcare facilities.
• Gatherings of more than 50 people or 50% of a location’s capacity are prohibited, whichever number is lower.
• All bars and restaurants statewide have been ordered to close, effective beginning 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 17 through April 6, although this could be extended. Food service establishments can continue to offer takeout and delivery service.

Business Impact and SBA Disaster Declaration

We want to thank all businesses who emailed in SBA Disaster Declaration forms earlier this week. Those forms are now being processed and we should hear from the SBA by the end of the week. ACCD is also working with other units of state government, the federal government, and non-profit organizations to identify resources to help you recover. We will continue to share information on such programs as they become available.

We are still interested in hearing from all Vermont businesses impacted by the response to the COVID-19 virus. Please continue to share these impacts via the Agency Business Impact Form, which will help us assess the full impact as we work toward solutions.

If you have other inquiries, please contact us through our dedicated email address: commerce.covid19@vermont.gov.

The Agency has also established a hotline so that businesses may call to report impacts and be directed to resources: (802) 461-5143. The hotline will be staffed Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Guidance from the Department of Labor

The Vermont Department of Labor has launched an online portal for employees who may be eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits as a result of COVID-19. This new process means initial unemployment insurance claims can now be filed online.

The Vermont Department of Labor also recently created a set of COVID-19 FAQs for Employers and Employees. New updates will be posted on the Department of Labor website. If you have specific questions, you may wish to contact the Vermont Department of Labor Employer Services line at 802 828-4344. Please understand that they are experiencing high call volume.

Business Interruption Insurance Coverage

The Department of Financial Regulation has posted new Business Income Insurance Guidance. Details will vary from policy to policy, so if you have questions regarding your insurance coverage, please contact your insurance agent or broker.

Small Business Assistance

If your business is looking for technical assistance, the Vermont Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC) is providing various resources to help support small business during the COVID-19 outbreak. VtSBDC’s team of advisors is actively working remotely to help you navigate this crisis. Click here to learn more and to request assistance.

In the wake of Tropical Storm Irene, the VtSBDC created a Disaster Recovery Guide for Businesses, available on their website. This document may also help you begin your recovery.

CDC Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers

For the full list of employer and business guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html