Lawmaker Tells Governor Branford Small Businesses Are Struggling

BRANFORD, CT —State Rep. Robin Comey (D-Branford) wrote Gov. Ned Lamont asking him provide more help for Connecticut's small businesses that continue to struggle during the coronavirus pandemic.

"While support from the governor and the State Department of Economic and Community Development has been adequate, more help is needed now," Comey wrote.

"Many businesses have now exhausted their PPP and EIDL funding and have to make decisions about continuing operations with occupancy restrictions. Some business owners have been able to work with employees, landlords and creditors to reduce overhead. However, some business, like restaurants, hair salons, and early care and education centers, have equipment and other investments in their locations that make simply moving or shrinking their footprint difficult. I have heard from a number of these businesses that have said without additional state support they will not be able to stay in business."

One of Comey's recommendations to support businesses is providing an eviction moratorium to the Lamont's executive order that provides relief to residential renters.

"This order would not absolve businesses of their obligations but would provide them a little breathing room during this challenging time," she wrote.

"Alternatively, the state could develop a program similar to the PPP or the Bridge Loan program that was launched back in March," she wrote. "Loans could be provided either on a forgivable basis or with extended payback terms to make sure that small businesses can afford to pay rent and stay in operation until the state is able to fully reopen."

Read Rep. Comey's full letter to Gov. Ned Lamont here:

Rep. Robin Comey Letter to ... by Ellyn Santiago