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by Timothy McQuiston, Vermont Business Magazine As modeling indicates continued progress in slowing the spread of COVID-19, Governor Phil Scott today announced a third incremental, data-driven step forward to put Vermonters back to work. Scott explained at his press briefing today that these next steps focus on construction and manufacturing. He said those two industries were chosen because they are vital to the Vermont economy getting back on track, they already are used to dealing with occupational safety regulations and that they should be able to adhere to the state's new safety measures during the COVID-19 emergency, which include wearing masks and appropriate distancing. The governor also announced that all public transit workers and customers will be required to wear masks.

Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Department of Health today reported that there were 13 new cases of COVID-19 statewide for a statewide total of 879. There was one more death for a total of 50. And the number hospitalized fell to 19 from 23. There were seven new cases at the Northwest State Correctional Center in St Albans, which has seen several cases. Those inmates are in the process of being transferred to the St Johnsbury facility which is set up to handle COVID-19 cases among inmates. The St Albans Town facility is the only prison in the state to present cases. Meanwhile, as modeling showed continued progress in slowing the spread of COVID-19, Governor Phil Scott Friday announced a third incremental, evidence-based step forward to put Vermonters back to work.

Vermont Business Magazine The Attorney General’s Office has been hard at work this week protecting the rights of Vermonters and standing up for the environment. “During these uncertain times, our mission and dedication to protecting Vermonters remain steadfast,” said Attorney General T.J. Donovan. “My office will continue to do its part in the COVID-19 pandemic. Vermont will get through this together.”

Vermont Business Magazine The Department of Labor reminds unemployed Vermonters that they must return to work if called back by their employer. While exceptions do exist for employees, such as those who have been exposed to COVID-19, or individuals who must care for a family member, those who refuse to return to suitable work may risk losing benefits. Additionally, individuals who have been laid off or furloughed, and are being paid because their employer has been accepted into the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), are not eligible for unemployment benefits. Refusing to accept employment wages, as provided by the PPP, will also be construed as a refusal of work, regardless of whether you will make less than you would collecting unemployment benefits.

Vermont Business Magazine Community College of Vermont (CCV) has been selected as a new Second Chance Pell school by the U.S. Department of Education. CCV is one of just three institutions in New England chosen to be part of the latest expansion of the program.

Vermont Business Magazine Today, Governor Phil Scott released Vermont's 3-Phased Reopening Plan for Vermont's Manufacturing, Fulfillment and Distribution enterprises, after many companies began taking their first, important steps towards recovery last Monday, April 27, in a measured fashion. "The Plan" is considered "a living document" and will be continuously updated and improved as information and guidance is refined and new best practices emerge.

The governor's order today states that effective May 4, 2020, the state will allow the following:

Webinars include online marketing strategies, emergency business planning, e-commerce development

Vermont Business Magazine As part of an effort to provide necessary assistance for retailers, grocers, and food producers throughout the state during this time of crisis Vermont Retail & Grocers Association (VRGA) and Vermont Specialty Food Association (VSFA) are offering an expanded series of webinars for members on topics related to operating during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Vermont Business Magazine Vermont PBS has announced the retirement of Holly Groschner, President & CEO, at the end of current fiscal year, June 30, 2020. Groschner has served the public media station since February 14, 2015. During her tenure, the station recognized growth in audience, membership, local programming, and community financial support, recapturing its status as a thriving community resource for Vermont.

Vermont Business Magazine The University of Vermont Health Network today announced sweeping measures to address staggering revenue losses directly related to the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many hospital systems across the country facing similar negative financial forecasts, The UVM Health Network is taking quick action to preserve access to care for the region. With projected network losses for the fiscal year estimated to be $152 million, the UVM Health Network is immediately reducing the base salary of leaders, eliminating employer retirement benefit contributions to leaders, and instituting a hiring freeze at all Network affiliates. This loss is lessened by $37.9 million in federal government funding that has come to the UVM Health Network.

Vermont Principals Association The VPA and its Activities Standards Committee believe strongly in the community, sportsmanship, dedication, teamwork, and healthy competition that are on display in Vermont extracurriculars. We are tremendously proud of our Vermont student athletes each and every year. With that said, it is with great regret that the Vermont Principals’ Association and its Activities Standards Committee announce the cancellation of the 2020 spring sports season.

Vermont Business Magazine Today Senate lawmakers are poised to act on legislation that would provide hazard pay to at-risk, essential workers, including grocers, pharmacy workers, trash collectors, janitors, child care professionals, assisted living and nursing home caregivers, and others facing increased risk of infection as they continue to serve their fellow Vermonters through the COVID-19 pandemic.

S. 346 would create the COVID-19 Essential Employees Hazard Grant Program, providing monthly grants to qualifying essential employees making less than $25 per hour. Employees working more than 108 hours per month would receive $1000 grants and those working at least 34 hours a month would get $600 grants. Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility stands in support of the measure, as providing hazard pay is key to rewarding the brave Vermonters who are saving lives and keeping core parts of our economy running.

Vermont Business Magazine The forecast Sunday is for partly sunny skies and warm temps of 68 degrees for the first-ever Virtual COTS Walk. The COVID-19 crisis has prevented Walkers from gathering in person to travel the traditional route, but the pandemic has not stopped the fundraising or COTS’ efforts to end homelessness in community. COTS prides itself on developing innovative solutions. The 2020 Virtual COTS Walk is no different. This year, COTS offers not one but FIVE Virtual COTS Walks that Walkers can travel on Sunday, May 3.