MASSACHUSETTS PHASED REOPENING ANNOUNCED
Today, Governor Baker announced a four-phased approach to reopening the Massachusetts economy, and published Mandatory Workplace Safety Standards that will apply universally to all workplaces that are open in Phase 1, and are designed to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission to employees and customers. As the Lt. Governor and I have mentioned on our weekly calls, this phased reopening (driven by public health indicators and guidance) charts a course to allow some businesses, services, and activities to resume, while protecting public health and limiting a resurgence of new COVID-19 cases.
You can learn more about the four-phase approach and Mandatory Workplace Safety Standards by reading:
- Today’s press release
- The Reopening Advisory Board’s overview of the four-phase approach
- The Mandatory Workplace Safety Standards developed by the Department of Public Health (DPH) and the COVID-19 Command Center, in consultation with the Reopening Advisory Board and based on feedback from industry, labor, and community coalitions.
The Reopening Advisory Board is scheduled to present a report on the reopening of the Massachusetts economy on May 18th. As has been noted previously, the timelines and rollout of reopening will be anchored in evidence that the public health threat is being effectively managed in Massachusetts.
SBA WEBINAR 5/13: “SBA RESOURCES UPDATE FOR UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES IN MA”
I also wanted to share information about the SBA webinar referenced on Friday’s call – “SBA Resources Update for Underserved Communities in MA.” This webinar will offer information about SBA coronavirus relief options and technical assistance resources available to Massachusetts businesses, and will take place on May 13th from 9-10 am. Click here to register.
As a reminder, small businesses can still submit applications for the Paycheck Protection Program by working with an SBA-approved lender. Businesses may also consult the SBA’s FAQ for the PPP with questions. Please let your communities know about this opportunity to learn more about the Paycheck Protection Program.
Finally, if you haven’t done so already, you can sign up to receive email updates from the SBA at https://www.sba.gov/updates.