Health care – access and cost
On March 30, Gov Scott signed H.742 (Act 91) which relates to Vermont’s response to COVID-19. Among other things, this bill serves to increase Vermonters’ access to health care and waives or limits costs associated with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of COVID-19.
Phased restart work safe guidance
The Vermont Agency of Commerce & Community Development (ACCD) issued a memo that outlines several modifications that have been made to the new “work safe” additions to the Stay Home, Stay Safe order.
As Vermont moves to restart the economy, it is essential to ensure the health and safety of Vermonters. How Vermonters go back to work – the ability of businesses and workers to follow public health measures – will determine the success of the phased reopening.
The ACCD memo outlines mandatory safety and health requirements for all businesses, including those that are currently operating and those that are restarting. Phase 1 of the restart, which was introduced on April 20, provided guidance for the reopening of outdoor businesses and construction operations, retail operations and low-contact professional services. Phase 2, which was introduced today, added manufacturing and distribution as well as specific guidance for outdoor retail operations, libraries and farmers markets.
The ACCD memo stresses that preventing outbreaks and limiting the spread of COVID-19 is the only way to avoid future business and social disruption. The success of this phased restart will depend in large part on the ability of employers and employees to adhere to the public health, safety, and social distancing measures essential to limiting the spread of illness.
Stay Home, Stay Safe!
Even though things appear to be improving with regards to the number of new cases, now is not the time to relax the safety measures that have been put in place. We all must continue to follow the recommendations to wear a mask whenever we go out, maintain at least 6 ft distance and wash hands often and thoroughly. Stay safe!