BOSTON – The Baker-Polito Administration today issued new guidelines to Executive Branch employees to ensure core state government functions are able to continue and key services are able to be provided to residents during the COVID-19 outbreak, while protecting the health and safety of the Executive Branch workforce and the public.
Effective Wednesday, March 18, 2020, the following protocols shall apply to state employees working in Executive Branch agencies:
Non-emergency employees who have the capacity to work remotely shall continue to do so;
Employees performing core functions that must be done at their workplace will be contacted by their manager and will be expected to report to work so that essential state government services can be maintained. Appropriate social distancing practice will be observed in both internal and public-facing offices;
Employees who are not performing core functions and who do not currently have the capacity to work remotely will be contacted by their manager for an alternative work assignment. During this time, the Commonwealth will continue to pursue technology to enable remote work. Managers will notify employees as that technology becomes available.
Any employee who is working remotely and needs to collect a computer or other work items shall contact their manager. Managers shall structure pick up times so that an employee’s time in the office is brief and staggered to maintain desired social distancing.
These protocols shall remain in effect until April 3, 2020, at which time this guidance will be revisited.
The Commonwealth has taken numerous steps in recent weeks to increase cleanings of state office buildings and promote personal hygiene and care. Over the past few weeks, over 400 educational posters have been placed in state buildings, bathrooms have been stocked at more frequent intervals with hand washing materials and sanitation products, and there are now increased cleanings of high-touch areas such as doorknobs, surfaces, and elevator buttons.
As a result of these new guidelines and the increased usage of telework, there will be closures of some public-facing government services and walk-in offices; these services will be made available online as appropriate.
Members of the public should continue checking www.mass.gov/covid19 for the latest information on impacts from the COVID-19 outbreak. Click here to view the status of in-person Executive Branch office locations effective March 18, 2020.
Tuesday, March 17, 2020
Changes To Expedite Health Care Licensing, Increase Support For Local Boards Of Health And Small Businesses
Coronavirus Update # 26
BOSTON – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced further actions to support residents, health care providers, and small businesses during the COVID-19 outbreak. The Administration today announced several emergency orders expediting the onboarding process of more licensed health care professionals. The Administration is also distributing an initial $5 million in emergency funding to local boards of health throughout the Commonwealth, with more funding to be distributed soon. The Administration also took additional steps to support small businesses affected by the COVID-19 outbreak by formally seeking relief from the Small Business Administration.
Supporting Expedited Licensing Of Health Care Professionals: The Administration today announced four new emergency orders to expedite the onboarding of more licensed health care professionals during the COVID-19 emergency. Changes as a result of these orders include:
Licenses of physicians who have retired within the last year, without complaints at the time of retirement and in good standing, may be reactivated, and licenses that would otherwise be up for renewal may be extended for 90 days after the end of the public health emergency.
Providers in good standing licensed in other states may obtain emergency licenses to practice in person or through telemedicine.
The ability of residents to provide services, subject to appropriate supervision, will also be expanded.
Assures continuity of care for college and university students, licenses for nurses, pharmacists and physician assistants that would otherwise be up for renewal for 90 days after the end of the public health emergency may be extended, and no nurse, social worker, psychologist or medical doctor may be prohibited from providing telehealth services across state lines to college or university students who have returned home. Recognizing the crucial need for sufficient EMS capacity during this public health emergency, these orders adjust minimum standards for ambulance staffing to ensure sufficient availability and capacity of EMS services.
Expands telehealth by facilitating telehealth services across state lines.
Governor’s Order #1: Registration of Health Care Professionals
Governor’s Order #2: Expanded Access to Physician Services
Emergency Funds For Local Boards Of Public Health: The Administration today is distributing an initial $5 million emergency funding to address immediate needs of the Commonwealth’s community health boards, with more funding to be distributed soon. This additional funding will support COVID-19 public health emergency resources in cities and towns, and the Baker-Polito Administration will execute emergency contracts with cities and health districts that have sufficient capacity to receive and utilize funding.
Small Business Administration Declaration: Building on yesterday’s announcement of a $10 million emergency loan fund for small businesses, Governor Baker today formally requested that the federal Small Business Administration issue a declaration of economic injury for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, which would make it possible for impacted business owners to obtain low-interest loans.
The Administration will continue to update the public on further developments and individuals are encouraged to consult both the Department of Public Health and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention websites for the most up to date information.
The latest information and guidance regarding COVID-19 is always available at mass.gov/COVID19 .
Baker-Polito Administration Announces Changes To Expedite Health Care Licensing, Increase Support For Local Boards Of Health And Small Businesses
BOSTON – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced further actions to support residents, health care providers, and small businesses during the COVID-19 outbreak. The Administration today announced several emergency orders expediting the onboarding process of more licensed health care professionals. The Administration is also distributing an initial $5 million in emergency funding to local boards of health throughout the Commonwealth, with more funding to be distributed soon. The Administration also took additional steps to support small businesses affected by the COVID-19 outbreak by formally seeking relief from the Small Business Administration.
Supporting Expedited Licensing Of Health Care Professionals: The Administration today announced four new emergency orders to expedite the onboarding of more licensed health care professionals during the COVID-19 emergency. Changes as a result of these orders include:
Licenses of physicians who have retired within the last year, without complaints at the time of retirement and in good standing, may be reactivated, and licenses that would otherwise be up for renewal may be extended for 90 days after the end of the public health emergency.
Providers in good standing licensed in other states may obtain emergency licenses to practice in person or through telemedicine.
The ability of residents to provide services, subject to appropriate supervision, will also be expanded.
Assures continuity of care for college and university students, licenses for nurses, pharmacists and physician assistants that would otherwise be up for renewal for 90 days after the end of the public health emergency may be extended, and no nurse, social worker, psychologist or medical doctor may be prohibited from providing telehealth services across state lines to college or university students who have returned home. Recognizing the crucial need for sufficient EMS capacity during this public health emergency, these orders adjust minimum standards for ambulance staffing to ensure sufficient availability and capacity of EMS services.
Expands telehealth by facilitating telehealth services across state lines.
Governor’s Order #1: Registration of Health Care Professionals
Governor’s Order #2: Expanded Access to Physician Services
Emergency Funds For Local Boards Of Public Health: The Administration today is distributing an initial $5 million emergency funding to address immediate needs of the Commonwealth’s community health boards, with more funding to be distributed soon. This additional funding will support COVID-19 public health emergency resources in cities and towns, and the Baker-Polito Administration will execute emergency contracts with cities and health districts that have sufficient capacity to receive and utilize funding.
Small Business Administration Declaration: Building on yesterday’s announcement of a $10 million emergency loan fund for small businesses, Governor Baker today formally requested that the federal Small Business Administration issue a declaration of economic injury for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, which would make it possible for impacted business owners to obtain low-interest loans.
The Administration will continue to update the public on further developments and individuals are encouraged to consult both the Department of Public Health and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention websites for the most up to date information.
The latest information and guidance regarding COVID-19 is always available at mass.gov/COVID19 .
Read more...
Coronavirus Update # 24 MBTA Service
Trains and buses will now run with reduced service.
Planned Service Levels
- Bus and Silver Line - Saturday schedule for all routes. Express routes 325, 326, 351, 352, 354, and 501 will run regular weekday service.
- Subway - Saturday schedule on all lines.
- Rail - Reduced service on all lines.
- Ferry - No service
- The RIDE - There are no planned service changes.
Read more...
Coronavirus updates from Beacon Hill and beyond
On the air now with the hosts of North Shore 104.9 FM. Coronavirus updates from Beacon Hill and beyond.
Read more...
Monday, March 16, 2020
Baker-Polito Administration Announces $10 Million Small Business Recovery Loan Fund
Coronavirus Update # 22
Small businesses impacted by COVID-19 will have access to capital assistance
BOSTON – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced economic support for small businesses with a $10 million loan fund to provide financial relief to those that have been affected by COVID-19.
The $10 million Small Business Recovery Loan Fund will provide emergency capital up to $75,000 to Massachusetts-based businesses impacted by COVID-19 with under 50 full- and part-time employees, including nonprofits. Loans are immediately available to eligible businesses with no payments due for the first 6 months. Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) has capitalized the fund and will administer it.
“As our administration continues to take steps to protect the health and safety of residents, we recognize the hardships facing the small businesses that create the foundation of the state’s economy,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “This recovery loan fund is a new resource to help small businesses address emergency needs due to the disruption caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.”
“Small business owners and their employees are our neighbors and our friends, and their enterprises play vital roles in our communities, and we are committed to helping them cope with the impacts of COVID-19,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “As we announce this small business recovery loan fund, we will continue to work with the Legislature and our federal partners to find ways to effectively provide assistance during this public health emergency.”
“Our office remains in regular contact with the state’s business community to provide updates and receive feedback as the administration continues to expand its comprehensive COVID-19 response,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy. “These new recovery loans complement other resources like the state WorkShare program and federal Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, as well as legislative efforts by the administration to support impacted workers.”
“MGCC is committed to helping support the Commonwealth’s small businesses through this time,” said Lawrence Andrews, President and CEO of MGCC. “We are proud to offer this fund as it serves our mission to save jobs and promote economic development. All processing and funding will take place online through MGCC staff.”
How to Apply:
Please complete the application found on MGCC’s website, EmpoweringSmallBusiness.org.
Completed applications can be sent via email to mgcc@massgcc.com with the subject line “2020 Small Business Recovery Loan Fund”.
MGCC can be reached by email: mgcc@massgcc.com
Loan Fund Details:
· Who Qualifies: Open to Massachusetts-based businesses impacted by COVID-19 with under 50 full- and part-time employees, including nonprofits (negative impact must be verifiable).
· Terms and Conditions: This fund is being offered with no payments due for the first 6 months, then 30-months of principal and interest payments and no prepayment penalties.
· Businesses can apply for loans up to $75,000.
Small businesses impacted by COVID-19 will have access to capital assistance
BOSTON – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced economic support for small businesses with a $10 million loan fund to provide financial relief to those that have been affected by COVID-19.
The $10 million Small Business Recovery Loan Fund will provide emergency capital up to $75,000 to Massachusetts-based businesses impacted by COVID-19 with under 50 full- and part-time employees, including nonprofits. Loans are immediately available to eligible businesses with no payments due for the first 6 months. Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) has capitalized the fund and will administer it.
“As our administration continues to take steps to protect the health and safety of residents, we recognize the hardships facing the small businesses that create the foundation of the state’s economy,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “This recovery loan fund is a new resource to help small businesses address emergency needs due to the disruption caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.”
“Small business owners and their employees are our neighbors and our friends, and their enterprises play vital roles in our communities, and we are committed to helping them cope with the impacts of COVID-19,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “As we announce this small business recovery loan fund, we will continue to work with the Legislature and our federal partners to find ways to effectively provide assistance during this public health emergency.”
“Our office remains in regular contact with the state’s business community to provide updates and receive feedback as the administration continues to expand its comprehensive COVID-19 response,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy. “These new recovery loans complement other resources like the state WorkShare program and federal Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, as well as legislative efforts by the administration to support impacted workers.”
“MGCC is committed to helping support the Commonwealth’s small businesses through this time,” said Lawrence Andrews, President and CEO of MGCC. “We are proud to offer this fund as it serves our mission to save jobs and promote economic development. All processing and funding will take place online through MGCC staff.”
How to Apply:
Please complete the application found on MGCC’s website, EmpoweringSmallBusiness.org.
Completed applications can be sent via email to mgcc@massgcc.com with the subject line “2020 Small Business Recovery Loan Fund”.
MGCC can be reached by email: mgcc@massgcc.com
Loan Fund Details:
· Who Qualifies: Open to Massachusetts-based businesses impacted by COVID-19 with under 50 full- and part-time employees, including nonprofits (negative impact must be verifiable).
· Terms and Conditions: This fund is being offered with no payments due for the first 6 months, then 30-months of principal and interest payments and no prepayment penalties.
· Businesses can apply for loans up to $75,000.
Read more...
MBTA Reduced Service
Coronavirus Update # 20
At the start of service on Tuesday, March 17, 2020, trains and buses will run with reduced service to support efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19. In addition, we have increased cleaning and sanitation at stations and on vehicles.
Service changes will help riders and employees avoid large crowds and allow for social distancing.
Planned Service Levels
MBTA Reduced Service
At the start of service on Tuesday, March 17, 2020, trains and buses will run with reduced service to support efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19. In addition, we have increased cleaning and sanitation at stations and on vehicles.
Service changes will help riders and employees avoid large crowds and allow for social distancing.
Planned Service Levels
- Bus and Silver Line - Saturday schedule for all routes. Express routes 325, 326, 351, 352, 354, and 501 will run regular weekday service.
- Subway - Saturday schedule on all lines.
- Commuter Rail - Reduced service on all lines.
- Ferry - No service
- The RIDE - There are no planned service changes.
Read more...
Unemployment Assistance:
The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) and the Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA), in coordination with the US Department of Labor (USDOL), are taking a series of actions to assist workers and employers.
For current unemployment claims:
All requirements regarding attending seminars at the MassHire career centers have been suspended. Missing deadlines due to effects of COVID-19 will be excused under DUA’s good cause provision. All appeal hearings will be held by telephone only. The Department of Labor issued guidance to the states instructing state agencies to apply existing law flexibly. Under the DOL guidance, DUA may now pay unemployment benefits if a worker is quarantined due to an order by a civil authority or medical professional or leaves employment due to reasonable risk of exposure or infection or to care for a family member and does not intend to or is not allowed to return to work. The worker need not provide medical documentation and need only be available for work when and as able.
To assist individuals who cannot work due to the impact of COVID-19, the administration is filing emergency legislation that will allow new claims to be paid more quickly by waiving the one week waiting period for unemployment benefits.
EOLWD and DUA are also filing emergency regulations that will allow people impacted by COVID-19 to collect unemployment if their workplace is shut down and expects to reopen in four or fewer weeks. The following conditions apply:
Workers must remain in contact with their employer during the shutdown.
Workers must be available for any work their employer may have for them that they are able to do.
An employer may request to extend the period of the covered shut-down to eight weeks, and workers will remain eligible for the longer period under the same conditions described above. If necessary, DUA may extend these time periods for workers and employers.
Employers who are impacted by COVID-19 may request up to a 60-day grace period to file quarterly reports and pay contributions.
The pending federal legislation proposes further relief including additional money for unemployment benefits, and relief to employers for charges related to unemployment benefits paid due to COVID-19.
For current unemployment claims:
All requirements regarding attending seminars at the MassHire career centers have been suspended. Missing deadlines due to effects of COVID-19 will be excused under DUA’s good cause provision. All appeal hearings will be held by telephone only. The Department of Labor issued guidance to the states instructing state agencies to apply existing law flexibly. Under the DOL guidance, DUA may now pay unemployment benefits if a worker is quarantined due to an order by a civil authority or medical professional or leaves employment due to reasonable risk of exposure or infection or to care for a family member and does not intend to or is not allowed to return to work. The worker need not provide medical documentation and need only be available for work when and as able.
To assist individuals who cannot work due to the impact of COVID-19, the administration is filing emergency legislation that will allow new claims to be paid more quickly by waiving the one week waiting period for unemployment benefits.
EOLWD and DUA are also filing emergency regulations that will allow people impacted by COVID-19 to collect unemployment if their workplace is shut down and expects to reopen in four or fewer weeks. The following conditions apply:
Workers must remain in contact with their employer during the shutdown.
Workers must be available for any work their employer may have for them that they are able to do.
An employer may request to extend the period of the covered shut-down to eight weeks, and workers will remain eligible for the longer period under the same conditions described above. If necessary, DUA may extend these time periods for workers and employers.
Employers who are impacted by COVID-19 may request up to a 60-day grace period to file quarterly reports and pay contributions.
The pending federal legislation proposes further relief including additional money for unemployment benefits, and relief to employers for charges related to unemployment benefits paid due to COVID-19.
Read more...
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