At Vision Advertising, we’re dedicated to staying abreast of all news COVID-19. We rely on it for internal matters and to ensure our messaging on behalf of our clients is accurate. Since the beginning of this crisis, we’ve been compiling a list of relevant information for internal use, but we believe this information will be just as useful to you. Over the past week, there have been some developments in Massachusetts’s plan to reopen as well as in the surrounding area. During this time, it’s critical to have the right information for yourself and your customers. Here’s the latest COVID-19 news for businesses.

Restaurants Will Know by June 6^th if They Can Open

Phase 1 of Massachusetts reopening plan is slated to last a minimum of three weeks. On June 6^th, restaurants will know whether it is safe to reopen. It’s important to realize that only outdoor dining will initially be permitted at the beginning of Phase 2. Restaurants will be required to abide by the regulations outlined on the MA COVID-19 Checklist. A similar checklist is being organized for lodging.

The PEUC Federal Program was Announced

A temporary federal program called Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) is being assembled and will be a part of Massachusetts’s standard Unemployment Insurance program. This program will provide up to 13 additional weeks of benefits to individuals who have exhausted their rights to regular unemployment compensation. Applicants must meet the eligibility requirement of the CARES Act. You can find more details of the program on Mass.gov’s dedicated PEUC page, and you can apply for this benefit online.

MA Governor to Streamline the ABCC Process

Governor Baker has announced he will work on legislation that will expedite the Alcoholic Beverages License (ABCC) process. This will allow for expanded outdoor dining space for restaurants. Local license authorities are encouraged to work with operators to accelerate ABCC approval. You can apply for an Alcoholic Beverages License by visiting Mass.gov’s dedicated ABCC page.

We advise local businesses to review Massachusetts’s 4-Phase Reopening Process to estimate and prepare for when they might be permitted to reopen. This is an ever-evolving process, but those of us at Vision Advertising will do our best to keep you informed of COVID-19 news for businesses. We wish you all the best of health, and should you need guidance, you can reach out to us for a consultation.