Vermont Forward Plan Announced
Governor Phil Scott has released the Vermont Forward reopening plan to help Vermonters and local businesses see the path for a phased return to unrestricted travel, business operations, and event gatherings. The plan was developed by the Department of Health, the Department of Public Safety, and the Agency of Commerce and Community Development and uses vaccination milestones to ensure a safe easing of restrictions and continued reopening of the state's economy. See steps below.
|
|
|
Sole Proprietor Stabilization Grant Program
Applications for a second round of sole proprietor grants from Vermont Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) are now being accepted. This additional funding will offer grants of between $1,500 and $10,000 to qualifying sole proprietors on a first come, first served basis. The application for this new round of funding opened on Monday, April 5th. Businesses can find technical assistance resources at the grant program website.
Phased Reopening Plan
On April 6, 2021, Governor Phil Scott released a reopening guide to help Vermonters and local businesses see the path for a phased return to unrestricted travel, business operations, and event gatherings. The plan was developed by the Department of Health, the Department of Public Safety, and the Agency of Commerce and Community Development and uses vaccination milestones to ensure a safe easing of personal restrictions and continued reopening of the state's economy.
Steps of the Vermont Forward Plan
The Vermont Forward Plan ties reopening to specific vaccine milestones in the state. All Vermonters are encouraged to get the vaccine when it is their turn. At this time, Education, Health Care, Sports/Organized Sports and Youth Summer Camps will retain individualized guidance and not move to universal guidance. Note: All dates are subject to change.
Step 1
Vaccination Progress (First Dose): Vulnerable population substantially complete; 35–45% of all Vermonters; 45–55% of Vermonters 16+
Business Operations
Group A Sectors: Move to required universal guidance
Cross State Travel
No quarantine is required for unvaccinated visitors with a negative test within 3 days prior to arrival. Unvaccinated Vermonters must be tested within 3 days upon return to the state.
Masks and Physical Distancing
Required when in the presence of those outside your household.
Step 2
Vaccination Progress (First Dose): 50–60% of all Vermonters; 60–70% of Vermonters 16+
Business Operations
Group B Sectors: Move to required universal guidance
Gatherings and Events
Indoor: 1 unvaccinated person per 100 sq ft up to 150, plus any number of vaccinated people
Outdoor: 300, plus any number of vaccinated people
Masks and Physical Distancing
Required when in the presence of those outside your household.
Step 3
Vaccination Progress (First Dose): 60–70% of all Vermonters; 70–85% of Vermonters 16+
Cross State Travel
No quarantine or testing requirements
Gatherings and Events
Indoor: 1 unvaccinated person per 50 sq ft up to 300, plus any number of vaccinated people
Outdoor: 900, plus any number of vaccinated people
Masks and Physical Distancing
Required when in the presence of those outside your household.
July 4
Business Operations
Universal guidance encouraged for all sectors
Gatherings and Events
No capacity restrictions
Masks and Physical Distancing
Encouraged
Additional Guidance
At this time, Education, Health Care, Sports/Organized Sports and Youth Summer Camps will retain individualized guidance and not move to universal guidance.
Source: Vermont Department of Economic Development 4.6.2021