Politics & Government

CT Town Moves To Defy Lamont's Reopening Orders

The town council voted to allow local businesses to reopen immediately if they're willing and able to do so.

CONNECTICUT — The Cromwell Town Council voted unanimously Tuesday evening to have a declaration drafted that would authorize local businesses to reopen immediately if they are ready and willing to do so while following health guidelines to limit the spread of the coronavirus.

The council authorized the town attorney to draft the declaration and a legal memorandum. The council also authorized the consideration of hosting high school graduation ceremonies in the future.

Mayor Enzo Faienza said that many businesses have been left in limbo by Gov. Ned Lamont about when they can reopen. He specifically referred to hair salons and barber shops, which were originally due to reopen May 20, but Lamont pushed the date back to June 1.

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“We need to start to reopen, following the guidelines following the rules, doing everything we can to help these small businesses survive,” he said at the council meeting.

Lamont was asked about the possible action at his Tuesday afternoon news conference. He said it's up to municipal authorities, but he would consider getting the state Department of Consumer Protection or Department of Public Health involved if local authorities don’t enforce the rules.

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