The Trump administration and state and local governments have wisely suspended regulations in order to help fight the coronavirus.

Many of these rules and regulations were not necessary in the first place, given their tendency to reduce innovation and access to care, not to mention their restriction on American liberty.

Below is a list of suspended rules and regulations, starting with federal waivers, followed by state and local waivers. If you have another example to add, please send it to ideas@atr.org

Suspended federal rules and regulations:

All heads of federal agencies directed to review regulatory standards that have temporarily been rescinded, suspended, modified, or waived during the COVID-19 response and determine which of these should be made permanent

"The heads of all agencies shall review any regulatory standards they have temporarily rescinded, suspended, modified, or waived during the public health emergency, any such actions they take pursuant to section 4 of this order, and other regulatory flexibilities they have implemented in response to COVID-19, whether before or after issuance of this order, and determine which, if any, would promote economic recovery if made permanent, insofar as doing so is consistent with the policy considerations identified in section 1 of this order, and report the results of such review to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, and the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy." - The White House (5/19/2020)

All heads of federal agencies directed to identify rules inhibiting economic recovery and consider temporarily or permanently rescinding, modifying, waiving, or exempting persons/entities from those requirements

"The heads of all agencies shall identify regulatory standards that may inhibit economic recovery and shall consider taking appropriate action, consistent with applicable law, including by issuing proposed rules as necessary, to temporarily or permanently rescind, modify, waive, or exempt persons or entities from those requirements, and to consider exercising appropriate temporary enforcement discretion or appropriate temporary extensions of time as provided for in enforceable agreements with respect to those requirements, for the purpose of promoting job creation and economic growth, insofar as doing so is consistent with the law and with the policy considerations identified in section 1 of this order." - The White House (5/19/2020)

All heads of federal agencies directed to accelerate procedures by which a regulated person/entity may receive a pre-enforcement ruling

"The heads of all agencies, excluding the Department of Justice, shall accelerate procedures by which a regulated person or entity may receive a pre-enforcement ruling under Executive Order 13892 with respect to whether proposed conduct in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, including any response to legislative or executive economic stimulus actions, is consistent with statutes and regulations administered by the agency, insofar as doing so is consistent with the law and with the policy considerations identified in section 1 of this order." - The White House (5/19/2020)

FDA allows state leeway in virus testing

"The FDA will allow states to take responsibility for tests developed and used by laboratories within their borders. The labs will not have to pursue Emergency Use Authorization from the agency, an emergency clearance that is normally required." - STAT News (3/16/20)

FDA loosens regulations on distribution of newly developed tests

"Under certain circumstances, the agency will not object to any manufacturers that distribute newly developed tests before the FDA grants emergency clearance, and a similar stance will be taken toward labs that use these new tests." - STAT News (3/16/20)

EPA easing enforcement of environmental legal obligations

"The EPA will exercise the enforcement discretion specified below for noncompliance covered by this temporary policy and resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic...

The consequences of the pandemic may affect facility operations and the availability of key staff and contractors and the ability of laboratories to timely analyze samples and provide results. As a result, there may be constraints on the ability of a facility or laboratory to carry out certain activities required by our federal environmental permits, regulations, and statutes. These consequences may affect reporting obligations and milestones set forth in settlements and consent decrees. Finally, these consequences may affect the ability of an operation to meet enforceable limitations on air emissions and water discharges, requirements for the management of hazardous waste, or requirements to ensure and provide safe drinking water... The enforcement discretion described in this temporary policy do not apply to any criminal violations or conditions of probation in criminal sentences. Appropriate consideration of potential criminal liability is discussed separately." - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (3/26/20)

FDA issues emergency authorizations for several COVID-19 tests

"The CDC has granted a right of reference to the performance data contained in CDC's EUA request (FDA submission number EUA200001) to any entity seeking an FDA EUA for a COVID-19 diagnostic device."

So far, they have has issued dozens (and counting) emergency authorizations for COVID-19 tests. This includes Abbott Laboratories' portable coronavirus test. Follow the link here to find the list. - U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2/29/20 - Present)

FDA issues emergency authorizations for several serological (antibody) tests

"We continue to provide the opportunity for interested developers to request FDA authorization through the emergency use authorization (EUA) process. To date, we have already issued four EUAs for serological tests, and we expect that number to continue to grow in the coming weeks." - U.S. Food and Drug Administration (4/18/20)

DOT provides hours-of-service regulatory relief to commercial vehicle drivers transporting emergency relief

"This deregulatory action will allow greater flexibility for truck drivers transporting goods such as necessary medical supplies, testing equipment, hand sanitizer, disinfectants and food required for emergency restocking of stores." - Americans for Tax Reform (3/16/20)

Not all test kits required to be sent to a CDC lab

"The administration removed a regulation that required all test kits to be sent to a CDC lab to be confirmed by federal authorities, a process that extended the wait times for patients to be notified about their results." - Washington Examiner (3/13/20)

Allowance of licensed health care professionals to work in a different state from which they are licensed

The "requirements that physicians or other health care professionals hold licenses in the State in which they provide services, if they have an equivalent license from another State (and are not affirmatively barred from practice in that State or any State a part of which is included in the emergency area)" are being waived. - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (3/13/20)

TSA allowing hand sanitizer containers up to 12 ounces

"TSA is allowing passengers to bring liquid hand sanitizer containers up to 12 ounces in carry-on bags until further notice. Passengers can expect that these containers larger than the standard allowance of 3.4 ounces of liquids permitted through a checkpoint will need to be screened separately..." - Transportation Security Administration (3/13/20)

Loosening HIPAA requirements in order to expand telemedicine

In order to allow patients to more easily communicate with their providers, the Administration loosened the HIPAA requirements surrounding telemedicine. This important change allows doctors to see patients via commonly used apps like FaceTime and Skype that were previously non-HIPAA compliant. - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (3/17/20)

Allowing out-of-state doctors to treat patients through telehealth

"HHS Secretary Alex Azar waive certain laws to expand the use of telehealth, which public health experts say can help reduce risk of transmission. The new order appears to let Azar waive federal licensing requirements so out-of-state doctors can treat patients virtually in states with the greatest need." - Politico (3/13/20)

Easing restrictions on online courses at colleges and universities

The Department of Education has moved to ease rules on colleges and universities who are shifting their classes online. There are a collection of rules being eased, not enforced. - Office of Postsecondary Education (3/5/20)

Allowing distilled spirits permittees (DSPs) to produce hand sanitizer

"Due to the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Acting Administrator of the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has found that it is necessary or desirable to waive provisions of internal revenue law with regard to distilled spirits, and therefore is providing certain exemptions and authorizations to distilled spirits permittees who wish to produce ethanol-based hand sanitizers to address the demand for such products during this emergency." - Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (3/18/20)

The Small Business Administration relaxed criteria for disaster assistance loans, expanding small businesses’ access to economic assistance

"Faster, Easier Qualification Process for States Seeking SBA Disaster Assistance. Historically, the SBA has required that any state or territory impacted by disaster provide documentation certifying that at least five small businesses have suffered substantial economic injury as a result of a disaster, with at least one business located in each declared county/parish. Under the just-released, revised criteria, states or territories are only required to certify that at least five small businesses within the state/territory have suffered substantial economic injury, regardless of where those businesses are located." - Small Business Administration (3/17/20)

Tax deadline extended until July by the IRS

The Trump Administration has extended the tax deadline to allow more flexibility in filing during this chaotic time. Americans for Tax Reform still recommends that taxpayers file their returns as soon as possible. Most taxpayers get refunds, in total amounting to about $50B in refunds that could be injected into the economy now. Taxpayers should be encouraged to file their returns as soon as possible to get refunds NOW to help them recover.

"Income tax payment deadlines for individual returns, with a due date of April 15, 2020, are being automatically extended until July 15, 2020, for up to $1 million of their 2019 tax due." - Internal Revenue Service (3/18/20)

FDA eases rules to increase ventilator production

"First, the guidance describes the agency’s intention to exercise enforcement discretion for certain modifications to these FDA-cleared devices. Normally, any time a manufacturer or user makes a modification to a ventilator device, for instance, adding wireless and/or Bluetooth capability for remote monitoring, those modifications can often trigger an FDA premarket review, which can delay the time it takes to get these devices to the bedside. The guidance also helps manufacturers ramp up their manufacturing by adding production lines or alternative sites, for instance, using non-medical device manufacturers such as automobile manufacturers, to start manufacturing ventilator parts....Second, as outlined in this guidance, hospitals and health care professionals may use ventilators intended for other environments... Finally, the agency encourages manufacturers, whether foreign or domestic, to talk to FDA about pursuing an emergency use authorization (EUA), which would allow them to distribute their ventilators in the United States." - U.S. Food and Drug Administration (3/22/20)

Puerto Rico and other territories allowed to acquire protective equipment (like masks) from non-U.S. sources

"Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) gave Puerto Rico and other territories the discretion to acquire personal protective equipment from non-U.S. sources… Previously, U.S. territories and the District of Columbia were obliged to purchase only U.S.-made personal protective equipment in accordance with the Buy American Act." - Reason (3/24/20)

FCC lends wireless internet service providers 5.9 GHz Spectrum to help them serve rural communities during the COVID-19 pandemic

"The 60-day grant of special temporary authority (STA) for use of the lower 45 MHz of the band is to help them serve rural communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The FCC said the grants will help with telehealth, distance learning and telework in rural communities in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia." - Multichannel News (3/27/20)

Allows local ambulatory surgery centers to provide hospital services, helping those who need cancer procedures, trauma surgeries, and other essential surgeries receive care while elective surgeries are canceled

"CMS will allow communities to take advantage of local ambulatory surgery centers that have canceled elective surgeries, per federal recommendations. Surgery centers can contract with local healthcare systems to provide hospital services, or they can enroll and bill as hospitals during the emergency declaration as long as they are not inconsistent with their State’s Emergency Preparedness or Pandemic Plan. The new flexibilities will also leverage these types of sites to decant services typically provided by hospitals such as cancer procedures, trauma surgeries and other essential surgeries." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Allows non-hospital buildings and spaces to be used for patient care and quarantine sites

"CMS will now temporarily permit non-hospital buildings and spaces to be used for patient care and quarantine sites, provided that the location is approved by the State and ensures the safety and comfort of patients and staff. This will expand the capacity of communities to develop a system of care that safely treats patients without COVID-19, and isolate and treat patients with COVID-19." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Allows hospitals, laboratories, and other entities to perform tests for COVID-19 on people at home, in other community-based settings outside of the hospital, and, for emergency departments, at drive-through and off-campus test sites

"CMS will allow hospitals, laboratories, and other entities to perform tests for COVID-19 on people at home and in other community-based settings outside of the hospital. This will both increase access to testing and reduce risks of exposure. The new guidance allows healthcare systems, hospitals, and communities to set up testing sites exclusively for the purpose of identifying COVID-19-positive patients in a safe environment. In addition, CMS will allow hospital emergency departments to test and screen patients for COVID-19 at drive-through and off-campus test sites." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Allows ambulances to transport patients to a wider range of locations

"During the public health emergency, ambulances can transport patients to a wider range of locations when other transportation is not medically appropriate. These destinations include community mental health centers, federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), physician’s offices, urgent care facilities, ambulatory surgery centers, and any locations furnishing dialysis services when an ESRD facility is not available." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Physician-owned hospitals can temporarily increase the number of their licensed beds, operating rooms, and procedure rooms

"Physician-owned hospitals can temporarily increase the number of their licensed beds, operating rooms, and procedure rooms. For example, a physician-owned hospital may temporarily convert observation beds to inpatient beds to accommodate patient surge during the public health emergency." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Hospitals allowed to bill for services at off-site treatment

"In addition, hospitals can bill for services provided outside their four walls. Emergency departments of hospitals can use telehealth services to quickly assess patients to determine the most appropriate site of care, freeing emergency space for those that need it most. New rules ensure that patients can be screened at alternate treatment and testing sites which are not subject to the Emergency Medical Labor and Treatment Act (EMTALA) as long as the national emergency remains in force. This will allow hospitals, psychiatric hospitals, and critical access hospitals (CAHs) to screen patients at a location offsite from the hospital’s campus to prevent the spread of COVID-19." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Allows hospitals and healthcare systems to increase their workforce capacity by removing barriers for physicians, nurses, and other clinicians to be readily hired from the local community

"Local private practice clinicians and their trained staff may be available for temporary employment since nonessential medical and surgical services are postponed during the public health emergency. CMS’s temporary requirements allow hospitals and healthcare systems to increase their workforce capacity by removing barriers for physicians, nurses, and other clinicians to be readily hired from the local community as well as those licensed from other states without violating Medicare rules." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Allows non-physician practitioners (physician assistants, nurse practitioners) a wider scope of practice, like ordering tests and medications

"CMS is issuing waivers so that hospitals can use other practitioners, such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners, to the fullest extent possible, in accordance with a state’s emergency preparedness or pandemic plan. These clinicians can perform services such as order tests and medications that may have previously required a physician’s order where this is permitted under state law." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Waives the requirement that certified registered nurse anesthetists be under the supervision of a physician

"CMS is waiving the requirements that a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) is under the supervision of a physician. This will allow CRNAs to function to the fullest extent allowed by the state, and free up physicians from the supervisory requirement and expand the capacity of both CRNAs and physicians." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Allows hospitals to provide benefits and support to their medical staffs

"CMS also is issuing a blanket waiver to allow hospitals to provide benefits and support to their medical staffs, such as multiple daily meals, laundry service for personal clothing, or child care services while the physicians and other staff are at the hospital and engaging in activities that benefit the hospital and its patients." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Eliminating some paperwork requirements, allowing clinicians to spend more time with patients

"CMS is temporarily eliminating paperwork requirements and allowing clinicians to spend more time with patients. Medicare will now cover respiratory-related devices and equipment for any medical reason determined by clinicians so that patients can get the care they need; previously Medicare only covered them under certain circumstances." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Hospitals not required to have written policies on processes and visitation of patients who are in COVID-19 isolations; will allow hospitals more time to provide patients and medical record

"During the public health emergency, hospitals will not be required to have written policies on processes and visitation of patients who are in COVID-19 isolation. Hospitals will also have more time to provide patients a copy of their medical record." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Providing temporary relief from many audit and reporting requirements

"CMS is providing temporary relief from many audit and reporting requirements so that providers, healthcare facilities, Medicare Advantage health plans, Medicare Part D prescription drug plans, and states can focus on providing needed care to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries affected by COVID-19." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Allows more services to be furnished via telehealth

"Building on prior action to expand reimbursement for telehealth services to Medicare beneficiaries, CMS will now allow for more than 80 additional services to be furnished via telehealth. During the public health emergencies, individuals can use interactive apps with audio and video capabilities to visit with their clinician for an even broader range of services. Providers also can evaluate beneficiaries who have audio phones only." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Allows providers to bill for telehealth visits at the same rate as in-person visits

"Providers can bill for telehealth visits at the same rate as in-person visits. Telehealth visits include emergency department visits, initial nursing facility and discharge visits, home visits, and therapy services, which must be provided by a clinician that is allowed to provide telehealth. New as well as established patients now may stay at home and have a telehealth visit with their provider." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

Remote patient monitoring services can now be provided to those with only one disease

"CMS is making it clear that clinicians can provide remote patient monitoring services to patients with acute and chronic conditions, and can be provided for patients with only one disease. For example, remote patient monitoring can be used to monitor a patient’s oxygen saturation levels using pulse oximetry." - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (3/30/20)

FDA issues emergency authorization of anti-malaria drug for coronavirus care

"The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to BARDA to allow hydroxychloroquine sulfate and chloroquine phosphate products donated to the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) to be distributed and prescribed by doctors to hospitalized teen and adult patients with COVID-19, as appropriate, when a clinical trial is not available or feasible." - Department of Health and Human Services (3/29/20)

FDA Agrees to Extend Product Approval Deadlines for Electronic Cigarettes

"A Maryland federal judge on Friday said that he would grant a 120-day extension to the deadline for e-cigarette regulatory applications in light of the novel coronavirus outbreak that has strained U.S. Food and Drug Administration resources and disrupted supply chains.

Last week, the FDA asked the Fourth Circuit to extend the current May 12 deadline in light of the coronavirus outbreak, saying that many of the laboratories and research organizations conducting the clinical trials for the regulatory applications have shut down or otherwise halted in-person testing in light of the COVID-19 pandemic." - Law360 (4/6/20)

COVID-19 Meal Times Nationwide Waiver

"In accordance with the COVID–19 Child Nutrition Response Act, USDA has granted a nationwide waiver, waiving the meal service time requirement during this public health emergency. This waiver allows for the serving of meals outside of the standard meal times for the following child nutrition programs: National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Child and Adult Care Food Program, and Summer Food Service Program. FNS has provided this waiver to ensure children are still being fed, while still in support of social distancing recommendation." - U.S. Department of Agriculture (3/20/20)

COVID-19 Nationwide Waiver to Allow Parents and Guardians to Pick Up Meals for Children

"In accordance with the Families First Coronavirus Response Act of 2020, FNS has granted a nationwide waiver allowing parents and/or guardians to pick up meals for their children, without the student needing to be present. This waiver is in support of social distancing and minimizes the exposure of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), it is effective immediately, and remains in effect through June 30, 2020, or until expiration of the federally declared public health emergency, whichever is earlier." - U.S. Department of Agriculture (4/14/20)

Temporary waivers on observers, monitors for vessels in the Greater Atlantic Region

"Consistent with the agency's emergency rule on observer waivers during the COVID-19 pandemic and under the authority granted to the Greater Atlantic Regional Administrator at 50 CFR 648.11(c), NOAA Fisheries is extending the waiver granted to vessels with Greater Atlantic Region fishing permits to carry human observers or at-sea monitors for an additional two weeks, through April 18, 2020. We will continue to evaluate the need for further extensions of this waiver on a weekly basis." - National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration (4/2/20)

Authorizing licensed pharmacists to order and administer COVID-19 tests

"Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health issued new guidance under the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act authorizing licensed pharmacists to order and administer COVID-19 tests that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has authorized." - U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (4/8/20)

Waiving federal law that governs retired Veterans Affairs workers, making it easier to rehire retired VA health care workers

"The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) approved a request from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), March 19, to waive a section of federal law that governs retired VA workers. The waiver makes it easier for the department to rehire retired VA health care workers and will help VA health care facilities bolster their medical staffs during the COVID-19 pandemic. VA plans to use the waiver authority to begin hiring actions as early as this week, and the department is inviting interested retired physicians, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory technicians, respiratory therapists and other medical professionals to register online." - U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (3/24/20)

Administration signed legislation removing restrictions that prevented manufacturers from selling industrial masks directly to hospitals

"New legislation signed Wednesday provides manufacturers of N95 face masks protection against lawsuits when selling certain masks to health-care workers, Pence said. That will free producers including 3M and Honeywell to sell tens of millions more masks per month to hospitals, Pence said, helping alleviate alarming shortages that have surfaced in recent weeks amid the coronavirus crisis." - Washington Post (3/19/20)

FDA outlines more efficient process for developers to receive agency feedback on their supporting data

"The first guidance, “COVID-19 Public Health Emergency: General Considerations for Pre-IND (Investigational New Drug application) Meeting Requests for COVID-19 Related Drugs and Biological Products,” outlines a more efficient process for developers to receive agency feedback on their supporting data with the goal of starting clinical trials as soon as possible. The FDA is committed to helping sponsors get potentially effective products into study quickly, while protecting the safety of patients. To that end, the guidance provides sponsors clarity on the types of data and information they should provide to address clinical, nonclinical and quality considerations before submitting an application to initiate studies." - U.S. Food and Drug Administration (5/11/2020)

FAA granted ZipLine permission to deliver medical supplies via drone

"A medical-delivery firm has received special permission to fly its drones farther than previously allowed in the United States, a COVID-prompted decision that advances the nascent drone-delivery industry here. ZipLine, which says its drones have flown more than 1.8 million hours delivering supplies in Africa, will fly supplies some 32 miles between a drone launch facility near Novant Health Huntersville Medical Center and the Novant Health Respiratory Assessment Center outside Charlotte, North Carolina. The Federal Aviation Administration, which regulates flight over U.S. territory, granted ZipLine permission to deliver medical supplies beyond line of sight over civilian airspace. Unmanned aircraft in the United States have largely been limited to line-of-sight flights, or government operations. The Department of Homeland Security, which flies General Atomics drones on surveillance missions over portions of the U.S. border, mounted a 275-mile demonstration flight from Yuma, Arizona, and Grey Butte, California. But that flight, like ZipLine’s upcoming delivery service, required a special waiver from the FAA." - Government Executive (5/28/2020)

Lifting rule that limits consumers to six transactions each month from their savings accounts

"The Federal Reserve Board on Friday announced an interim final rule to amend Regulation D (Reserve Requirements of Depository Institutions) to delete the six-per-month limit on convenient transfers from the "savings deposit" definition. The interim final rule allows depository institutions immediately to suspend enforcement of the six transfer limit and to allow their customers to make an unlimited number of convenient transfers and withdrawals from their savings deposits at a time when financial events associated with the coronavirus pandemic have made such access more urgent." - The Federal Reserve (4/24/2020)

Temporary relaxation of the supplemental leverage ratio by the Federal Reserve to improve flexibility of banks

"To ease strains in the Treasury market resulting from the coronavirus and increase banking organizations' ability to provide credit to households and businesses, the Federal Reserve Board on Wednesday announced a temporary change to its supplementary leverage ratio rule. The change would exclude U.S. Treasury securities and deposits at Federal Reserve Banks from the calculation of the rule for holding companies, and will be in effect until March 31, 2021. Liquidity conditions in Treasury markets have deteriorated rapidly, and financial institutions are receiving significant inflows of customer deposits along with increased reserve levels. The regulatory restrictions that accompany this balance sheet growth may constrain the firms' ability to continue to serve as financial intermediaries and to provide credit to households and businesses. The change to the supplementary leverage ratio will mitigate the effects of those restrictions and better enable firms to support the economy." - The Federal Reserve (4/1/2020)

USDA allowing lenders to offer 180-day loan payment deferrals without prior agency approval

"USDA Rural Development Deputy Under Secretary Bette Brand today announced that USDA is granting lenders a temporary exception to offer payment deferrals for Agency guaranteed loan programs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Effective immediately until September 30, 2020, lenders may offer 180-day loan payment deferrals without prior agency approval for Business and Industry Loan Guarantees, Rural Energy for America Program Loan Guarantees, Community Facilities Loan Guarantees, and Water and Waste Disposal Loan Guarantees. For additional information, see page 17721 of the March 31, 2020, Federal Register." - U.S. Department of Agriculture (3/31/2020)

Provides regulatory relief to persons who have been unable to comply with certain training, recent experience, testing, and checking requirements; permits operators to continue to use pilots and other crew members in support of essential operations

"This Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) provides regulatory relief to persons who have been unable to comply with certain training, recent experience, testing, and checking requirements due to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. This relief allows operators to continue to use pilots and other crewmembers in support of essential operations during this period. Additionally, this SFAR provides regulatory relief to certain persons and pilot schools unable to meet duration and renewal requirements due to the outbreak. This rule also allows certain air carriers and operators to fly temporary overflow aircraft, a need resulting from the outbreak, to a point of storage pursuant to a special flight permit with a continuing authorization." - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT) (4/30/2020)

EPA loosening auto tailpipe emission standards through the Safer Affordable Fuel-Efficient Vehicles rule

"EPA and NHTSA, on behalf of the Department of Transportation, are issuing final rules to amend and establish carbon dioxide and fuel economy standards. Specifically, EPA is amending carbon dioxide standards for model years 2021 and later, and NHTSA is amending fuel economy standards for model year 2021 and setting new fuel economy standards for model years 2022–2026. The standards set by this action apply to passenger cars and light trucks, and will continue our nation’s progress toward energy independence and carbon dioxide reduction, while recognizing the realities of the marketplace and consumers’ interest in purchasing vehicles that meet all of their diverse needs." - Environmental Protection Agency (4/30/2020)

FDA intention to exercise enforcement discretion regarding sales to qualified end-users when determining eligibility for the qualified exemption from the Standards for the Growing, Harvesting, Packing, and Holding of Produce for Human Consumption

"The Food and Drug Administration (FDA, Agency, or we) is announcing the availability of a final guidance for industry entitled “Temporary Policy During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Regarding the Qualified Exemption from the Standards for the Growing, Harvesting, Packing, and Holding of Produce for Human Consumption.” Given the public health emergency presented by COVID-19, this guidance document is being implemented without prior public comment because FDA has determined that prior public participation is not feasible or appropriate, but it remains subject to comment in accordance with the Agency's good guidance practices. The guidance communicates the Agency's intention to exercise enforcement discretion, in the manner described in the guidance, regarding sales to qualified end-users when determining eligibility for the qualified exemption from the Standards for the Growing, Harvesting, Packing, and Holding of Produce for Human Consumption, due to disruptions to supply chains, for the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency." - Food and Drug Administration, HHS (6/5/2020)

Facilitating patient access to investigational drugs for treating COVID-19

"The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or Agency) is announcing the availability of a final guidance for industry entitled “Institutional Review Board (IRB) Review of Individual Patient Expanded Access Requests for Investigational Drugs and Biological Products During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.” To facilitate patient access to investigational drugs for treating COVID-19, FDA is issuing this guidance to provide recommendations regarding the key factors and procedures IRBs should consider when reviewing requests—including when such reviews are conducted by a single-member of an IRB—for individual patient expanded access. Given the public health emergency presented by COVID-19, this guidance is being implemented without prior public comment because FDA has determined that prior public participation is not feasible or appropriate, but it remains subject to comment in accordance with the Agency's good guidance practices." - Food and Drug Administration, HHS (6/9/2020)

Suspending enforcement measures under the Federal-aid Highway Program for States that choose to permit commercial food trucks to operate and sell food

"The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) today issued a notice to State Departments of Transportation that the agency is suspending enforcement measures under the Federal-aid Highway Program for States that choose to permit commercial food trucks to operate and sell food, in accordance with state laws, in designated federally funded Interstate Highway rest areas." - U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (4/3/2020)

Providing rural healthcare providers the flexibility to test innovative payment mechanisms

"Within 30 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of HHS (Secretary) will announce a new model, pursuant to section 1115A of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1315a), to test innovative payment mechanisms in order to ensure that rural healthcare providers are able to provide the necessary level and quality of care. This model should give rural providers flexibilities from existing Medicare rules, establish predictable financial payments, and encourage the movement into high-quality, value-based care." - The White House (8/3/2020)

Suspended state rules and regulations:

Alabama - Allowance for the curbside sale of alcoholic beverages

"Officials in Alabama have signed an emergency order to allow for the sale of alcoholic beverages curbside at licensed businesses in the state." - WBRC (3/17/20)

Alabama - Allows for prescriptions to be filled for longer than 30 days

"Due to the ongoing threat of coronavirus, the Alabama Board of Pharmacy is allowing pharmacists to process emergency refills on essential medications." - WHNT (3/16/20)

Alabama - Temporary Suspension of Practice Agreement Ratio Limits and Reporting/Recordkeeping for Nurse Practitioners

"Licensed healthcare facility (LHF)-based NP practice allows collaboration with the Chief Medical Officer or designee, which may be in specific patient locations within the hospital such as Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit or elsewhere in the facility. Allows for the CMO or designee to have unlimited collaborations. A facility can have an unlimited number of CRNP/CNM. An application is not required as the LHF will perform record keeping for this. There is no fee associated with the LTF approval during this crisis period." - Office of Governor Kay Ivey (4/2/20)

Alabama - Expanding scope of practice for Certified Registered Nurse Practitioners

"NPs authorized to prescribe from a facility-approved formulary and perform all skills authorized in the facility protocols within the scope of the NP’s education and training. (controlled substance prescribing requires DEA registration through the ABME). The facility is authorized to develop related CRNP/CNM protocols supportive of patient care, based on the scope of practice for a CRNP/CNM." - Office of Governor Kay Ivey (4/2/20)

Alabama - Interstate reciprocity for health care licenses

"To allow expedited licensures and/or temporary permits for the practice of pharmacy, nursing, and medicine in Alabama by individuals in possession of active, unencumbered licenses in other states…" - Office of Governor Kay Ivey (4/2/20)

Alabama - Suspending certificate of need laws for projects deemed necessary for fighting COVID-19

"The State Health Planning and Development Agency and, as appropriate, the Statewide Health Coordinating Council and the Certificate of Need Review Board, is hereby authorized and directed to promulgate emergency rules to provide for temporary waivers to the Certificate of Need process to permit new services, facilities, and other resources needed for the treatment of patients affected by... COVID-19... " - Office of Governor Kay Ivey (4/2/20)

Alabama - Allowing remote notarization

"Notaries in Alabama who are licensed attorneys or operating under the supervision of licensed attorneys may notarize signatures through videoconferencing programs and confirm the signatures of witnesses who participate virtually through videoconferencing as though they were physically present at the signing." - Office of Governor Kay Ivey (3/26/20)

Alabama - Extending tax deadlines

"I hereby delegate to the Commissioner of Revenue the authority to postpone the April 15, 2020, due date for the payment of the following state taxes until July 15, 2020 for any "person," as that term is defined in Ala. Code…" - Office of Governor Kay Ivey (3/26/20)

Alabama - Licensure period for emergency medical services personnel and provider services extended

"The licensure period applicable to emergency medical services personnel and provider services is hereby extended for the duration of the current state of emergency." - Office of Governor Kay Ivey (3/26/20)

Alaska - Suspending certain government fees and fines

"Suspends certain fees and fines within the Department of Health and Social Services, Department of Administration, Department of Commerce, Department of Labor, Department of Revenue, Department of Environmental Conservation, Department of Natural Resources, Department of Transportation, and the Department of Fish and Game through May 11, 2020 unless otherwise noted." - Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (4/1/20)

Alaska - Extending the tax deadline

Deferred tax filing deadline to April 10th, 2020. - Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (3/31/20)

Alaska - Expansion of access to Telehealth Services

Suspending several telehealth regulations to allow "phone consultations with another provider; to allow clinics to conduct assessments in ways other than face-to-face; to allow videoconferencing." - Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (3/31/20)

Alaska - Unapproved facilities may be used for patient care if approved facilities are not available

"To permit healthcare facilities to utilize space for patient care that may not have been designed and approved for such uses where approved facilities are not available due to surge in patients."- Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (3/31/20)

Alaska - Allowing the delivery and curbside pickup of alcohol

"Suspension of the statute only to the extent necessary to allow for: ( 1) curbside pickup of alcohol; and (2) delivery of beer and wine when included with an order of food being delivered by a licensed restaurant or eating place establishment." - Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (4/14/2020)

Alaska - Suspending certain EMT certification/recertification requirements

"To suspend in-person skills testing requirement for initial certification for EMTI, II, III, and AEMT (Advanced EMT). To suspend in-person skills testing requirement for CPR certification. To suspend EMT recertification deadline. To suspend in-person skills testing for CPR certification of EMTs. To suspend requirement that an EMT whose certification has been expired for one to three years must apply for recertification. To suspend the cap of a maximum of 24 hours of Continuing Medical Education hours delivered through distance education." - Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (4/9/2020)

Alaska - Suspending certificate of need laws for hospital beds

"To suspend the requirement to submit a certificate of need prior to temporarily increasing bed capacity." - Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (4/9/2020)

Alaska - Allowing family members to be paid for providing care

"To suspend prohibition against payment to family members providing care." - Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (3/31/2020)

Alaska - Suspending requirement that dependent children under 23 be attending an accredited educational or technical institution

"Limited suspension of requirement that dependent children under the age of 23 attend on a full-time basis an accredited educational or technical institution recognized by the Department of Education and Early Development." - Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (4/14/2020)

Alaska - Suspends prohibition on studded tires

"Suspends the prohibition of driving with studded tires from May 1 through September 15." - Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (3/31/2020)

Alaska - Suspending fees for facilities that have closed or are operating at reduced capacity

"To suspend fees for facilities that have closed, or are operating at reduced capacity, due to COVID-19 health mandates… To suspend collection of annual permit payments for facilities that have closed, or are operating at reduced capacity, due to due to COVID-19 health mandates." - Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (4/9/2020)

Alaska - Suspending teacher education requirements

"To suspend the requirement for current holders of a preliminary certificate to submit passing scores on a competency exam. To suspend the requirement for applicants for an initial certificate to submit passing scores on a competency exam. To suspend the requirement for the issuance of teacher certificates for the completion of the required three semester hours of Alaska studies and Alaska multicultural coursework. For initial teaching certificates, to suspend the requirements for the completion of the required three semester hours of Alaska studies and Alaska multicultural coursework." - Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (4/14/2020)

Alaska - Suspending minimum score requirements for standardized testing

"To remove requirement to achieve a minimum score on a standardized examination. To remove requirement to achieve minimum score on college entrance examination. To remove standardized examination scores from eligibility requirements for Alaska Performance Scholarship. To remove standardized examination score requirements from eligibility requirements for Alaska Performance Scholarship. To suspend requirement for certain nonpublic school students to submit to department documentation of standardized examination results." - Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy (4/9/2020)

Arizona - Expanding scope of practice for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists

"Governor Ducey notified the Center For Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of his decision to exempt the State of Arizona from a federal regulation requiring Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) to be supervised by a physician. The reform will expand access to care, especially in rural areas, and free up physicians for other needed medical services." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (3/24/20)

Arizona - Expanding licensing opportunities by helping licensed professionals in the state stay licensed and deferring certain requirements for six months

"Under the Executive Order, state agencies and boards will defer requirements to renew licenses that have an expiration date between March 1, 2020 and September 1, 2020 by six months from the expiration date, unless those requirements can be completed online. Additionally, they will defer requirements to complete continuing education by six months, unless those requirements can be completed online." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (3/26/20)

Arizona - Allowing on-the-job training for certain health care workers

"The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System shall permit and the Board of Examiners of Nursing Care Institution Administrators and Assisted Living Facility Managers shall certify an individual who completes on-the-job training as provided in this order as if the applicant had fulfilled the requirements for training required." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/14/20)

Arizona - Telehealth services may be provided by any licensed healthcare provider

"Telehealth services subject to this Executive Order may be provided by any Arizona licensed healthcare provider type including, but not limited to, physicians, physician assistants, advanced practice nurses, optometrist, psychologists, dentists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, pharmacists, behavioral health providers, chiropractors, athletic trainers, hearing aid dispensers, audiologists, and speech-language pathologists." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/14/20)

Arizona - Allows the issuance of a prescription for injured workers without an in-person examination

"No Arizona regulatory board shall enforce any statute, rule, or regulation that would require a medical professional who is licensed by that board and who is authorized to write prescriptions to conduct an in-person examination of an injured worker prior to the issuance of a prescription." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/14/20)

Arizona - Allowing food trucks to operate at rest areas

"The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) shall issue no-fee permits to mobile food vendors otherwise licensed pursuant to A.R.S. 36-136(I)(4) to provide take-away food service at state rest areas." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/15/2020), Executive Order: 2020-31

Arizona - Permitting telemedicine for pets

"Beginning on April 1, 2020, and continuing for the duration of the Public Health Emergency declared in Arizona on March 11, 2020, in order to protect public health, expedite access to and treatment of animal health conditions, and to minimize the risk of the spread of COVID-19 within veterinary healthcare facilities, the use of telemedicine may be used by licensed veterinarians in Arizona." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/1/2020), Executive Order: 2020-19

Arizona - Allowing pharmacists to dispense emergency refills of maintenance medications

"Allow pharmacists to utilize their professional judgment to dispense emergency refills of maintenance medications for up to a 90-day supply and an additional 90-day supply if necessary. For the purposes of this order, controlled substances shall not be considered maintenance medications." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/2/2020), Executive Order: 2020-20

Arizona - Waiving electronic prescribing requirements

"Waive electronic prescribing requirements outlined in A.R.S. Section 36-2525(D)." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/2/2020), Executive Order: 2020-20

Arizona - Extending requirement for a prescriber to deliver a follow-up paper prescription to pharmacy

"Extend the requirement… for a prescriber to deliver a follow-up paper prescription to the pharmacy from 7 days to 15 days." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/2/2020), Executive Order: 2020-20

Arizona - Allowing phone-in prescription for a Schedule II medication

"Allow a phone-in prescription for a Schedule II medication to be sent to the pharmacy via fax, scan, or photo as long as the original, hard copy prescription is kept by the prescriber." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/2/2020), Executive Order: 2020-20

Arizona - Waiving hospital prescribing labeling restrictions

"Waive hospital prescribing labeling restrictions outlined in A.R.S. Section 32-1934(B)(4) for multidose medications." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/2/2020), Executive Order: 2020-20

Arizona - Allowing pharmacists to interchange therapeutically equivalent medications

"Allow pharmacists to utilize their professional judgment to interchange therapeutically equivalent medications of the same Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug classification unless the prescriber has noted that the medication shall be dispensed as written." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/2/2020), Executive Order: 2020-20

Arizona - Waiving requirement for companies producing hand sanitizer to have a permit

"Waive the requirement for companies producing hand sanitizer to have a permit." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/2/2020), Executive Order: 2020-20

Arizona - Allowing an Arizona licensed pharmacy to receive pharmaceuticals wholesalers or third-party logistics providers licensed in other states

"Allow an Arizona licensed pharmacy to receive pharmaceuticals from an unpermitted wholesaler or third-party logistics provider located in another state to alleviate pharmaceutical shortages, provided that the unlicensed wholesaler or third-party logistics provider is licensed in their home state." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/2/2020), Executive Order: 2020-20

Arizona - Allowing an Arizona licensed pharmacy or wholesaler to receive pharmaceuticals from an unpermitted manufacturer located in another state or country

"Allow an Arizona licensed pharmacy or wholesaler to receive pharmaceuticals from an unpermitted manufacturer located in another state or country to alleviate pharmaceutical shortages. The unpermitted manufacturer must be registered with the FDA and have a current Good Manufacturing Practice inspection no older than six months." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/2/2020), Executive Order: 2020-20

Arizona - Allowing remote notarization

"Remote Online Notarization may be used for notarial acts as valid witness to execution of documents, provided that procedures… and rules promulgated by the Secretary of State are followed." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/8/2020), Executive Order: 2020-26

Arizona - Allowing restaurants to sell several grocery items

"Restaurants currently licensed or permitted to serve prepared food may sell grocery items including, but not limited to, paper goods, cleaning supplies, prepared food in bulk, meat and vegetables whether or not those items are normally packaged for resale or are raw..." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/7/2020), Executive Order: 2020-25

Arizona - Immunity from liability for health care providers providing care in support of COVID-19 response

"Governor Doug Ducey today issued an Executive Order to help boost medical staffing levels and provide certainty and liability protections to health care professionals serving on the front lines. The order provides protections to health care professionals treating patients during the COVID-19 health emergency, while also protecting patients against negligence or reckless misconduct." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (4/9/2020)

Arizona - Waiving staff-to-children ratios in child care facilities and when transporting children

"The following regulations are temporarily waived for child care facilities that provide child care to a "school-age child" as defined in A.A.C. R9-5-101, provided that the facility ensures adequate staffing levels to protect the health, safety and well-being of the children in the care of the facility: a. R9-5-404 [A licensee shall ensure that at least the following staff-to-children ratios are maintained at all times when providing child care services to enrolled children...] b. R9-5-517(C) [When transporting an enrolled school-age child in a motor vehicle, a licensee shall ensure that the staff-to-children ratios required in R9-5-404(A) are met]." - Office of Governor Doug Ducey (5/28/2020), Executive Order: 2020-39

Arkansas - Lifting restrictions on telehealth law, which required an in-person encounter to establish a professional relationship

"To fully leverage telehealth in Arkansas and mitigate the spread of COVID-19, I am suspending the provisions… requiring an in-person encounter, or a face to face examination using real time audio and visual means to establish a professional relationship. Physicians licensed in Arkansas who have access to a patient's personal health record maintained by a physician may establish a professional relationship with a patient using any technology deemed appopriate by the provider... with a citizen located in Arkansas to diagnose, treat and if clinically appropriate, prescribe a non-controlled drug to that patient." - Office of Governor Asa Hutchinson (3/24/20)

Arkansas - Removes limits on working hours for health care providers

"A suspension of Arkansas Code to the extent necessary to remove limits on working hours for physicians, physician assistants, specialist assistants, nurse practitioners, licensed registered nurses, and licensed practical nurses, to allow healthcare facilities otherwise affected by the disaster emergency to maintain adequate staffing..." - Office of Governor Asa Hutchinson (4/13/20)

Arkansas - Lessening barriers in medical treatment protocol development and modification

"A suspension of Arkansas Code to the extent necessary to allow emergency medical treatment protocol development or modification to occur solely with the approval of the Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Health." - Office of Governor Asa Hutchinson (4/13/20)

Arkansas - Immunity from liability for health care providers providing care in support of COVID-19 response

"A suspension of Ark. Code… to the extent necessary to provide immunity from liability to the following emergency responders… in the course of providing medical services in support of the State's response to the COVID-19 outbreak…: (a) physicians; (b) physician assistants; (c) specialist assistants; (d) nurse practitioners; (e) licensed registered nurses; and (f) and licensed practical nurses." - Office of Governor Asa Hutchinson (4/13/20)

Arkansas - Allowing remote notarization

Suspends several provisions requiring in-person witnessing and notarization of legal documents. - Office of Governor Asa Hutchinson (4/9/20)

Arkansas - Extending tax deadlines

"The Secretary of the Department of Finance and Administration is hereby ordered to extend the 2019 individual income tax filing date and individual income tax payment date from April 15, 2020, to July 15, 2020." - Office of Governor Asa Hutchinson (3/23/20)

Arkansas - Providing immunity from civil liability for damages or injuries caused by or resulting from exposure to COVID-19

"To protect businesses that open or remain open during the COVID-19 emergency, all persons in the State of Arkansas and the person's employees, agents, and officers shall be immune from civil liability for damages or injuries caused by or resulting from exposure of an individual to COVID-19 on the premises owned or operated by those persons or during any activity managed by those persons." - Office of Governor Asa Hutchinson (6/15/2020)

Arkansas - Suspend provisions that currently require a contagious or infectious disease be contracted in or in immediate connection to a hospital or sanitorium to allow first responders and front-line healthcare workers to seek workers compensation

"Suspend provisions of Ark. Code Ann. 11-9-601(e)(2) that currently require a contagious or infectious disease be contracted in or in immediate connection to a hospital or sanitorium to allow first responders and front-line healthcare workers to seek workers compensation for exposure to COVID-19 in the line of duty outside of those settings..." - Office of Governor Asa Hutchinson (4/21/2020)

Arkansas - Allowing food trucks to operate at rest areas

"The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) will issue temporary permits for certified food truck operators to serve truckers at two rest stops in the state, according to a release from the Arkansas Trucking Association on Thursday. The move is an effort to ensure greater food options for truck drivers during the month of April so that they have a safe place to eat while carrying essential goods and aid to communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic." - KNWA FOX 24 (4/2/2020)

California - Waiving licensing and staffing requirements with respect to clinics, adult day health care, hospice, and mobile health care units

"For the duration of the declared emergency, waive any of the licensing and staffing requirements of chapters 1, 3.3, 8.5, and 9 of division 2 of the Health and Safety Code and any accompanying regulations with respect to any clinic, adult day health care, hospice, or mobile health care unit. Any waiver shall include alternative measures that, under the circumstances, will allow the clinic, adult day health care, hospice, or mobile health care unit to assist in the care or protect the health of individuals while protecting public health and safety." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (3/21/20)

California - Noise limitations suspended if they restrict delivery of food, pharmaceuticals, and other emergency necessities

"Any local ordinance, including those relating to noise limitations, is suspended to the extent it restricts, delays, or otherwise inhibits the delivery of food products, pharmaceuticals, and other emergency necessities distributed through grocery stores and other retail or institutional channels, including, but not limited to, hospitals, jails, restaurants, and schools." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (3/21/20)

California - Allows Department of State Hospitals to waive any provisions or requirements that impede ability to care for mental or behavioral health conditions

"To ensure that patients with mental or behavioral health conditions continue to receive the services and support they need, notwithstanding disruptions caused by COVID-19; and to protect the health, safety and welfare of patients with mental or behavioral health conditions committed to the State Department of State Hospitals facilities, as defined by Welfare and Institutions Code Sections 4100 and 7200; the Director of the State Department of State Hospitals may issue directives waiving any provision or requirement of the Welfare and Institutions Code; any provision or requirement of the Penal Code that affects the execution of laws relating to care, custody, and treatment of persons with mental illness committed to or in the custody of the State Department State Hospitals." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (3/21/20)

California - Extending tax deadlines, refund deadlines, and license renewals

"The executive order allows the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) to offer a 90-day extension for tax returns and tax payments for all businesses filing a return for less than $1 million in taxes. That means small businesses will have until the end of July to file their first-quarter returns. Additionally, the order extends the statute of limitations to file a claim for refund by 60 days to accommodate tax and fee payers. The executive order also includes extensions that impact state government workers, as well as consumers. For instance, the Department of Motor Vehicles will limit in-person transactions for the next 60 days, allowing instead for mail-in renewals. Additionally, the Department of Consumer Affairs will waive continuing education requirements for several professions, also for the next 60 days. Further, the order will extend the Office of Administrative Law’s deadlines to review regular department proposed regulations. The order also extends by 60 days the time period to complete investigation of public safety officers based on allegations of misconduct. Finally, deadlines for trainings, investigations, and adverse actions for state workers will also be extended." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (3/30/20)

California - Departments may waive any professional licensing and certification requirements to expand scopes of care

"To the extent necessary and only for the duration of the declared emergency, waive any of the professional licensing and certification requirements and amend scopes of practice of chapters 2, 2.35, and 8 of division 2 of the Health and Safety Code and any accompanying regulations with respect to certified nursing assistants, home health aides, and nursing home administrators, and chapter 3, division 2 of the Business and Professions Code and accompanying regulations with respect to certified hemodialysis technicians." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (3/30/20)

California - Extension for expired drivers' licenses and identification cards; suspends late fees

"Some of the issues addressed in the executive order include granting a 60-day extension for customers on several Department of Motor Vehicles deadlines, including for recently expired drivers’ licenses and identification cards, to reflect public compliance with the COVID-19 stay at home order. It also suspends late fees from being applied to expired vehicle registrations." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (4/23/20)

California - Allowing posting, filing and notice requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to be satisfied through electronic means

"The order will allow certain posting, filing and notice requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to be satisfied through electronic means to allow public access and involvement consistent with COVID-19 public health concerns." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (4/23/20)

California - Allows retailers to provide bags to consumers without charge

"The executive order will temporarily allow retailers, particularly grocery stores, to provide bags to consumers without charge, and to pause redemption of beverage containers in-store to mitigate the spread of COVID-19." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (4/23/20)

California - Suspends the requirement for recycling centers to hold a minimum number of hours of operation

"The executive order also temporarily suspends the requirement for recycling centers to hold a minimum number of hours of operation and directs the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) to develop and issue operating guidelines." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (4/23/20)

California - Suspends requirements for in-person signatures for people to obtain certain prescription drugs

"The executive order will temporarily suspend requirements for in-person signatures for people to obtain certain prescription drugs covered by Medi-Cal, and will allow a 90-day extension for providers on cost reporting, change of scope of service and administrative hearings." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (4/23/20)

California - Expanding access to telehealth services

"The order relaxes certain state privacy and security laws for medical providers, so they can provide telehealth services without the risk of being penalized. This action is similar to the federal HHS Office for Civil Rights waiver issued on March 17, 2020 regarding federal privacy and security laws." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (4/3/20)

California - Allows remote marriage

"Under the executive order, adults will be able to obtain a marriage license, at the discretion of their local county clerk, through videoconferencing, as long as both adults are located within the State of California, are present, and can present identification during the video conference. The license can then be issued via email. Additionally, adults who wish to be married can conduct a ceremony to solemnize the marriage via videoconference, as long as both parties are present, and have at least one witness who can join the live video conference. The provisions will be in place for the next 60 days for those who wish to be married during that time." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (4/30/2020)

California - Allowing retired peace officers to be rehired

"Also, the order enhances public safety by allowing retired peace officers to temporarily be reemployed for up to a year if they left the agency in good standing." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (5/8/2020)

California - Extends expiration dates for notaries public whose commissions are set to expire

"Additionally, the order extends for 60 days the expiration dates for notaries public whose commissions are set to expire. The order also makes it clear that notaries public can use an expired Department of Motor Vehicle driver’s license or identification card to confirm identification, consistent with prior action that extended expiration dates for driver’s licenses and identification cards." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (5/8/2020)

California - Waives deadlines and certification requirements for Cal Grant applicants

"The order also waives the deadline to verify grade point average and waives certain certification requirements and selective service registration verification for Cal Grant applicants." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (5/19/2020)

California - Waives the 10 percent cash or in-kind matching requirements for domestic violence service providers

"The order helps ease the strain on domestic violence service providers by waiving the 10 percent cash or in-kind matching requirements for state grants awarded to these organizations." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (5/19/2020)

California - Broadening the capability of counties to enroll persons in programs

"The order extends waivers temporarily broadening the capability of counties to enroll persons into the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program, allowing for self-attestation of pregnancy and conditions of eligibility, and waiving in-person identification requirements." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (6/15/2020)

California - Allows food trucks to operate in roadside rest areas

"The order also extends permission for commercially-licensed food trucks to operate in roadside rest areas, in compliance with a temporary permit issued by Caltrans…" - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (6/15/2020)

California - Suspends face-to-face visits for eligibility for extended foster care

"The order also... suspends face-to-face visits for eligibility for extended foster care…" - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (6/15/2020)

California - Allows temporary manufacture of over-the-counter drugs and medical devices by firms not currently licensed by the California Department of Public Health

"The order allows the temporary manufacture of over-the-counter drugs and medical devices by firms not currently licensed by the California Department of Public Health. The firms must apply for temporary registration and self-certify they are compliant with guidance by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (6/5/2020)

California - Defers renewal fees for manufacturers of drugs, medical devices, food and cosmetics

"The order defers renewal fees to address COVID-19 related economic hardship for manufacturers of drugs, medical devices, food and cosmetics that currently have California Department of Public Health licenses, registrations, and certificates." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (6/5/2020)

California - Extending a number of waivers to allow for flexibility in the emergency placement of foster youth

"The order also addresses a variety of other issues in response to the COVID-19 pandemic by extending a number of waivers to allow for flexibility in the emergency placement of foster youth and ensure that foster youth have access to critical programs and technology by verifying foster care status for foster youth and wards of the juvenile court whose cases are pending..." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (6/5/2020)

California - Allowing renewals by mail of driver’s licenses

"In order to limit the need for in-person transactions at Department of Motor Vehicle offices and thereby facilitate adherence to physical distancing guidelines, the prohibition in Vehicle Code section 12814.5(e) against renewals by mail of driver’s licenses and the requirements in Vehicle Code section 13002.1(b) for in-person renewals of identification cards, and any accompanying regulations, are waived. This waiver shall be in effect until this Order is modified or rescinded, or until the State of Emergency is terminated, whichever occurs sooner." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (6/30/2020)

California - Allowing in-home initial assessments of IHSS applicants who have known exposure to, present symptoms of, or test positive for COVID-19 to be conducted by video-conferencing

"The provisions of Welfare and Institutions Code sections 12301.1, 12301.2, and 12309 are suspended to the extent necessary to permit in-home initial assessments of IHSS applicants who have known exposure to, present symptoms of, or test positive for COVID-19 to be conducted by video-conferencing, to the extent permitted under federal law." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (6/30/2020)

California - Waiving Resource Family Approval Program standards set forth in the Resource Family Approval Program

"To facilitate the continued provision of care and supervision during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Social Services may, to the extent necessary, temporarily waive, in whole or in part, Resource Family Approval Program standards set forth in the Resource Family Approval Program pursuant to Article 2 of Chapter 5 of Part 4 of Division 9 of the Welfare and Institutions Code and any accompanying regulations, written directives, or other related policies or procedures, including but not limited to standards regarding inactive status, home environment, caregiver training, complaint investigation protocols, and face-to-face interview requirements." - Office of Governor Gavin Newsom (6/30/2020)

Colorado - Expedited medical licensing

"Governor Polis said he would order the state to expedite licensing of new medical professionals and asked medical professionals who might be retired or are in a different profession to reconnect with their prior employer to supplement the state’s health cares systems if and when medical professionals are diagnosed with COVID-19." - CPR News (3/13/20)

Colorado - Interstate reciprocity for health care licenses

"In order to scale up our health care workforce capacity, I have asked the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies to cut through the red tape on licensing our medical professionals so that medical professionals - including pharmacists, nurses, doctors - who are licensed in other states but residing here can be immediately licensed in Colorado as quickly as possible to address this shortage." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (3/13/20)

Colorado - Deregulatory efforts for drivers' licensing and vehicle registration

Governor Polis closed the state’s DMVs, waived the restriction on online renewals for residents 65 and older, and permitted counties to waive late fees and renewals for vehicle registration. - Office of Governor Jared Polis (3/2020)

Colorado - Allowing food trucks to operate at Colorado’s rest areas to support the movement of commercial vehicle activities

"I temporarily suspend the restriction in C.R.S. § 43-3-101(3) that no commercial enterprise shall be conducted or authorized on any property designated as or acquired for or in connection with a freeway or highway by the department of transportation, or any other governmental agency for commercial food truck. I direct the Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Transportation to issue temporary permits to allow commercial food trucks in Colorado’s rest and commercial trucking refueling areas to support truckers and commercial vehicle activity." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (5/2/2020)

Colorado - Suspending certain petition gathering requirements for unaffiliated and independent candidates for office

"I temporarily suspend C.R.S. §§ 1-4-802(1)(d)(I) and 1-4-802(1)(f)(I), which establish the time period during which unaffiliated and independent candidates may circulate petitions." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (4/13/2020)

Colorado - Allowing the the training and delegation of health care tasks to health care professionals, whose licenses typically do not allow said tasks

"I direct the Executive Director of DORA, through the Director of the Division of Professions and Occupations (DPO), to promulgate and issue temporary emergency rules to permit the licensed professionals... to cross train, supervise, and delegate responsibilities concerning the temporary care and treatment of patients to the professionals listed in Section II.B., in hospitals or inpatient medical facilities, including emergency departments, as long as such delegated responsibilities are appropriate based on the delegated professional’s education, training, and experience..." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (4/15/2020)

Colorado - Allowing certified nurse anesthetists and anesthesiologist assistants to perform airway management for COVID-19 patients

"I temporarily suspend the medical tasks that may be delegated to anesthesiologist assistants under C.R.S. § 12-240-107(7)(a), and I direct the Executive Director of DORA, through the Director of DPO, to promulgate and issue temporary emergency rules that allow certified nurse anesthetists and anesthesiologist assistants to perform airway management for COVID-19 patients." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (4/15/2020)

Colorado - Suspending certain nursing and nurse aide students' education requirements

"I temporarily suspend the following State Board of Nursing (SBON) Rules in 3 CCR 716-1 to facilitate the completion of nursing and nurse aide students’ studies to make additional professionals available to the healthcare workforce as soon as possible: 1. SBON Rule 1.2 C.11. (requiring concurrent clinical and theory experiences to allow clinical hours to be completed beyond six (6) months of relevant theory content);2. SBON Rule 1.10 D.12.a. (requiring completion of a written examination, including skills-based examination, as a condition of nurse aide certification); 3. SBON Rule 1.2 E. 15.c.(4)(a) (requiring a minimum of four hundred (400) clinical hours graduation from a practical nursing education program); 4. SBON Rule 1.2 E. 15.c.(4)(b) (requiring a minimum of seven hundred fifty (750) clinical hours for graduation from a professional nursing education program); 5. SBON Rule 1.2 E.15.c.(4)(c) (requiring fifty percent of clinical hours in the Medical Surgical Nursing II, Community Health and Capstone (practicum) courses, pediatrics, obstetrics, psychiatric and medical surgical nursing be completed in a clinical setting); 6. SBON Rule 1.2 E.15.c.(13)(d) (requiring faculty supervision for healthcare related volunteer experiences); and 7. SBON Rule 1.11.E.2.a. (requiring that a minimum of sixteen (16) hours of clinical instruction be performed in a clinical setting as part of any certified nurse aide program)." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (4/15/2020)

Colorado - Suspending national certification or designated population focus requirements for APNs

"I temporarily suspend C.R.S. § 12-255-111(2) and 3 CCR 716-1 Rules 1.14(C) and (D), requiring national certification or designated population focus for advanced practice nurses when engaging in inpatient care, only to the extent necessary to enable advanced practice nurses without such certification or designation to evaluate and treat COVID-19 patients." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (4/15/2020)

Colorado - Allowing uncertified nurse aides to be employed for longer than four months

"I temporarily suspend C.R.S. § 12-260-120(1)(d), prohibiting the employment of a nurse aide student for longer than four (4) months unless certified, to enable nurse aide students to continue to evaluate and treat patients beyond four (4) months." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (4/15/2020)

Colorado - Suspending regulations on hospital pharmacies to allow them to meet expanding inpatient needs and emergency department bed counts

"I temporarily suspend the following State Board of Pharmacy Rules (Pharmacy Board Rules) to ensure hospital pharmacies are able to meet the needs of expanding inpatient and emergency department bed counts due to COVID-19 through hospital pharmacy satellites: 1. Pharmacy Board Rule 27.00.10(a) (requiring a maximum 1-mile distance restriction between the primary hospital pharmacy and the hospital satellite pharmacy); 2. Pharmacy Board Rules 27.00.20(c), (e), (f), (i), (j), (k), (i), (m), and (q) (requiring pre-registration inspection as well as various space, technical (such as a sink), and reference requirements); 3. Pharmacy Board Rule 27.00.40 (minimum hours of operation requirement); and 4. Pharmacy Board Rule 27.00.50 (security requirements)." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (4/15/2020)

Colorado - Allowing remote notarization

"I authorize the Secretary of State, consistent with the Secretary of State’s rulemaking authority under C.R.S. § 24-21-527(1)(a)-(f), to promulgate and issue temporary emergency rules to: 1. Authorize notarial officers to perform notarizations where a person appears before a notarial officer remotely, by real-time audio-video communication; and 2. Establish the standards and processes necessary to allow remote notarizations, including rules regarding authentication, verification of identity, and audio-video recording." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (3/27/2020)

Colorado - Allowing the issuance of marriage licenses when county clerk and recorder offices are closed

"I, Jared Polis, Governor of the State of Colorado, hereby issue this Executive Order ordering the temporary suspension of certain statutes preventing the issuance of marriage licenses when county clerk and recorder offices are closed due to the presence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Colorado." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (3/26/2020)

Colorado - Allowing retailers to delivery and takeout of alcoholic beverages

"I temporarily suspend the enforcement of the statutory license limitations in C.R.S. §§ 44-3-301(3)(a), 44-3-901(1)(g), 44-3-901(10), and 44-4-107(6) to allow retailers licensed for on-premises alcohol consumption to sell, deliver, or provide for takeout of sealed alcohol beverages if the customer, who is over twenty-one (21) years old, also purchases food, for a period of thirty (30) days until April 18, 2020." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (3/20/2020)

Colorado - Allowing breweries to sell, delivery, and provides for takeout sealed containers of malt liquor

"I also temporarily suspend the enforcement of the statutory license limitations in C.R.S. §§ 44-3-301(3)(a), 44-3- 901(1)(g), and 44-3-901(10) for breweries operating an approved sales room to sell, deliver, or provide for takeout of sealed containers of malt liquor, if the customer is over twenty-one (21) years old, for a period of thirty (30) days until April 18, 2020." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (3/20/2020)

Colorado - Allowing issuance of medical marijuana cards without "appropriate personal physical examination"

"I temporarily suspend C.R.S. § 25-1.5-106(2)(a.5)(I), which requires an appropriate personal physical examination for the issuance of medical marijuana cards, for a period of thirty (30) days until April 18, 2020, to prevent exposure of COVID-19 among medical professionals and medical marijuana patients." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (3/20/2020)

Colorado - Allowing the online sales of retail marijuana and retail marijuana products

"I temporarily suspend the prohibition on retail marijuana store online sales of retail marijuana and retail marijuana products in C.R.S. § 44-10-601(7)(c) to facilitate pick up by consumers twenty-one (21) years of age and older in a manner consistent with social-distancing guidelines promulgated by CDPHE, for a period of thirty (30) days until April 18, 2020." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (3/20/2020)

Colorado - Suspending vehicle gross weight provisions

"I temporarily suspend the vehicle gross weight provisions of C.R.S. § 42-4- 508(1)(c) for vehicles weighing 80,001 pounds to 84,999 pounds, to ensure the delivery of emergency goods and services to their destination in a safe and efficient manner for a period of thirty (30) days until April 18, 2020." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (3/20/2020)

Colorado - Expanding access to telehealth services

"I, Jared Polis, Governor of the State of Colorado, hereby issue this Executive Order ordering the temporary suspension of certain statutes to expand the use of telehealth services due to the presence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Colorado." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (4/1/2020)

Colorado - Suspending certain health facility licensing requirements to allow the operation of alternate care sites

"I temporarily suspend the requirements for health facilities licensing by CDPHE under C.R.S. §§ 25-1.5-103, 25-3-101, and 25-1-114(1)(c) for the Colorado Convention Center ACS and The Ranch ACS." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (5/20/2020)

Colorado - Immunity from liability for certain health care providers and facilities providing care in support of COVID-19 response

"Pursuant to the authority established in relevant provisions of the Act, C.R.S. § 24-33.5-701 et seq., I direct DHSEM and DHHA to enter into a contract to provide healthcare services consistent with the provisions of this Executive Order at the Colorado Convention Center ACS. While acting in good faith to comply completely with this Executive Order, and the resulting contract, to operate the Colorado Convention Center ACS, DHHA and its personnel shall be immune from civil or criminal liability for any action taken to comply with this Executive Order related to their activities at the Colorado Convention Center ACS pursuant to C.R.S. § 24-33.5-711.5(2). D. Pursuant to the authority established in relevant provisions of the Act, C.R.S. § 24-33.5-701 et seq., I direct DHSEM and UCHealth to enter into a contract to provide healthcare services consistent with the provisions of this Executive Order at The Ranch ACS. While acting in good faith to comply completely with this Executive Order, and the resulting contract, to operate The Ranch ACS, UCHealth and its personnel shall be immune from civil or criminal liability for any action taken to comply with this Executive Order related to their activities at The Ranch ACS pursuant to C.R.S. § 24-33.5-711.5(2)." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (5/20/2020)

Colorado - Suspending in-person aide supervision by a registered nurse of a family member providing care

"I temporarily suspend the following for thirty (30) days: 1. C.R.S. § 25.5-6-704(4)(b) requiring in-person aide supervision by a registered nurse of a family member providing care services to facilitate remote supervision and decrease the need for in-person visits..." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (5/22/2020)

Colorado - Allows designees to receive reimbursements for managing the financial matters associated with or directing the eligible person’s care

"I temporarily suspend the following for thirty (30) days: … The portions of C.R.S. § 25.5-6-1102(6) that prohibit designees from receiving reimbursements for managing the financial matters associated with or directing the eligible person’s care…" - Office of Governor Jared Polis (5/22/2020)

Colorado - Suspending certain regulatory statutes concerning signature collection for unaffiliated and independent candidates

"I temporarily suspend the requirements of C.R.S. § 1-4-901 designating the format of petitions for unaffiliated and independent candidates filed with the Secretary of State’s Office... I temporarily suspend the requirements of C.R.S. § 1-4-905(2)(a) that a circulator for unaffiliated or independent candidates must provide an affidavit stating that the circular was in the presence of the person who signed the petition and that the affidavit is signed in the physical presence of a notary public for petitions filed with the Secretary of State." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (5/15/2020)

Colorado - Allowing food trucks to operate at Colorado’s rest areas

"I temporarily suspend the restriction in C.R.S. § 43-3-101(3) that no commercial enterprise shall be conducted or authorized on any property designated as or acquired for or in connection with a freeway or highway by the department of transportation, or any other governmental agency for commercial food truck. I direct the Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Transportation to issue temporary permits to allow commercial food trucks in Colorado’s rest and commercial trucking refueling areas to support truckers and commercial vehicle activity." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (5/2/2020)

Colorado - Suspending certain Medicaid payment requirements

"I temporarily suspend the requirements of C.R.S. § 25.5-6-202(5) that establish the mechanism for determining the amount of supplemental payments for Medicaid-certified nursing facilities. I temporarily suspend the requirements of C.R.S. §§ 25.5-6-204(1)(a), (1)(b), and (2)(a) that establish the rate for reimbursement under the Medicaid program for intermediate care facilities to increase reimbursement rates for certified intermediate care facilities." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (4/30/2020)

Colorado - Lifting time periods during which unaffiliated and independent candidates may circulate petitions

"I temporarily suspend C.R.S. §§ 1-4-802(1)(d)(I) and 1-4-802(1)(f)(I), which establish the time period during which unaffiliated and independent candidates may circulate petitions." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (4/30/2020)

Colorado - Lifting physical presence requirements for collecting signatures for a petition

"I temporarily suspend the requirements in C.R.S. § 1-40-111 that a petition circulator be in the physical presence of the registered electors signing the petition, that the petition circulator be in the physical presence of a notary, and that the Secretary reject any section of a petition that does not have a notarized circulator affidavit attached. Additionally, I temporarily suspend the requirements in C.R.S. § 1-40-135(2)(c)(VI) that the Secretary must revoke a petition entity’s license if the entity authorizes or knowingly permits a notary public’s notarization of a petition section outside the presence of the circulator." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (5/15/2020)

Colorado - Permitting telemedicine for pets

"COVID-19 is a highly contagious viral disease that has spread throughout many Colorado communities, across the country, and across the world. To protect the public health and mitigate exposure to and the spread of COVID-19, Colorado health care providers, including veterinarians, must be able to use telehealth services whenever possible. These services, including low-cost telephone, internet, audio-only, and live video, are widely available and accessible to health care providers and patients." - Office of Governor Jared Polis (5/29/2020)

Connecticut - Office of Health Strategy to waive Certificates of Need

"Authorizes the Office of Health Strategy to waive Certificates of Need and other requirements to ensure adequate availability of healthcare resources and facilities." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (3/14/20)

Connecticut - Waives certain easily childhood care licensing requirements

"Governor Lamont signed his third executive order since the enactment of the emergency declarations earlier this week. The order issued... authorizes the Commissioner of Early Childhood to waive certain licensing and other requirements to maintain and increase the availability of childcare…" - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (3/14/20)

Connecticut - Easing regulations on pharmacist procedure

"Governor Lamont today signed his third executive order since the enactment of the emergency declarations earlier this week. The order issued... waives requirements for pharmacists to use certain personal protective equipment when working with non-hazardous, sterile compounds." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (3/14/20)

Connecticut - Allows pharmacists to make and sell hand sanitizer

"Governor Lamont today signed his third executive order since the enactment of the emergency declarations earlier this week. The order issued… allows pharmacists to compound and sell hand sanitizer." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (3/14/20)

Connecticut - Established interstate reciprocity for health care licenses

"Permits physicians, nurses, respiratory care practitioners, emergency medical services personnel, and other health care practitioners who are licensed in another state to provide temporary assistance in Connecticut for a period of 60 days." - Connecticut’s Commissioner of the Department of Public Health (3/23/20)

Connecticut - Suspension of Tax on Single-Use Checkout Bags

"Temporary Suspension of Tax on Single-Use Checkout Bags. All provisions of Section 355 of Public Act 19-117, as codified in Section 22a246a of the 2020 Supplement to the Connecticut General Statutes, regarding single-use plastic checkout bags, are temporarily suspended through May 15, 2020, unless earlier modified, extended, or terminated by me. The Commissioner of Revenue Services shall issue any implementing order he deems necessary, and any guidance for businesses on accounting or other necessary measures during this temporary suspension." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (3/26/20)

Connecticut - Extending the tax deadline

"Extension of deadline to file income and expense statement to August 15: Allows taxpayers additional time to complete their income and expense statements." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (4/1/20)

Connecticut - Waives certificate of need requirements for healthcare resources and facilities fighting COVID-19

"Provisions to ensure adequate healthcare resources and facilities: The order allows the Office of Healthcare Strategy to waive certain requirements regarding certificates of need and other healthcare related requirements so ensure that the increased demand for healthcare resources and facilities can be met during the COVID-19 pandemic." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (3/16/20)

Connecticut - Approval of temporary additional nursing home beds

"Approval of Temporary Additional Nursing Home Beds for COVID-19 Recovery. Section 17b-354(a) of the Connecticut General Statutes, to the extent that it places a moratorium on the approval of additional nursing home beds by the Commissioner of Social Services, is suspended effective April 13, 2020, but solely with respect to: (i) entities designated by the Department of Public Health (DPH) to serve as Alternate COVID Recovery Facilities, as said term is established and defined pursuant to Executive Order No. 7Y; and (ii) additional nursing home beds as may be required at an existing skilled nursing facility to receive COVID-19 transfers from entities designated by DPH to serve as COVID Recovery Facilities, as said terms are established and defined pursuant to Executive Order No. 7Y." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (4/15/20)

Connecticut - State contracting agency may waive provisions of certain statutes if it expedites the procurement of "essential goods"

"In accordance with the provisions of Section 28-9(b)(1) of the Connecticut General Statutes, for any contract entered into on or after March 10, 2020, the head of a state contracting agency may waive the provisions of the following statutes if he or she deems such waiver necessary to expedite the procurement of “essential goods,” ... a. which require the disclosure of certain gifts and campaign contributions by state contractors... b. which require the inclusion of language regarding contractors’ civil liability for violations of the state’s whistleblower statute... c. which require the competitive solicitation for all purchases and contracts for supplies, materials and equipment... d. which require the inclusion of certain anti-discrimination terms in State contracts... e. which require state contractors to permit certain audit and inspection activities by the State... f. which requires state contractors to comply with certain confidentiality requirements." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (4/14/20)

Connecticut - Unarmed security officers licensed in other states may practice in Connecticut

"Suspension of Requirements for Security Officer License. Section 29-161q of the Connecticut General Statutes and any statute, regulation or requirement or part thereof relating to unarmed Security Officer licenses is hereby modified to authorize the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection to waive licensing requirements for the purpose of temporarily allowing security services or businesses to employ security officers who are not licensed in Connecticut but are licensed in another state." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (4/14/20)

Connecticut - Waiving any application fees for temporary permits

"Sections 20-65k, 20-12b(b), 20-74d, 20-162o(c) and 20-195t of the Connecticut General Statutes are modified to waive any application fees for temporary permits and to extend the duration of the temporary permits for the health care professions governed thereunder (Athletic Trainer, Respiratory Care Practitioner, Physician Assistant, Occupational, Therapist/Assistants, Master Social Worker), for the duration of the public health and civil preparedness emergency, unless earlier modified or terminated. The Commissioner may issue any implementing order she deems necessary to effectuate this order." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (4/7/20)

Connecticut - The practices allowed for healthcare trainees prior to licensure are permitted for the duration of the declared emergency

"The provisions in Sections 20-70(b)(1), 20-70(b)(2), 20-74bb(f), and 20- 101 of the Connecticut General Statutes that permit practice prior to licensure by applicants and graduates for the health care professions governed thereunder (Physical Therapist, Physical Therapy Assistant, Radiographer, Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist), are modified to permit such practice for the duration of the public health and civil preparedness emergency, unless earlier modified or terminated. The Commissioner of Public Health may issue any implementing orders she deems necessary to effectuate this order." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (4/7/20)

Connecticut - If someone is accredited, no license shall be required to practice as a marital and family therapy associate

"Section 20- 195f of the Connecticut General Statutes is modified to provide that, for the duration of the public health and civil preparedness emergency, unless earlier modified or terminated, no license shall be required to practice as a marital and family therapy associate, as defined in Section 20-195a(4), for a person who has completed a graduate degree program specializing in marital and family therapy offered by a regionally accredited institution of higher education or a postgraduate clinical training program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education and offered by a regionally accredited institution of higher education." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (4/7/20)

Connecticut - A professional counselor associate may practice without obtaining a license

"Section 20- 195bb(c) of the Connecticut General Statutes is modified to permit a person who has completed the requirements in Section 20-195dd(b) to practice as a professional counselor associate without obtaining a license for the duration of the public health and civil preparedness emergency, unless earlier modified or terminated." - Office of Governor Ned Lamont (4/7/20)

Connecticut - Health care professionals and facilities shall be immune from civil liability suits while providing COVID-19 support in good faith

"Notwithstanding any provision of the Connecticut General Statutes or any other state law, including the common law, or any associated regulations, rules, policies, or procedures, any health care professional or health care facility shall be immune from suit for civil liability for any injury or death alleged to have been sustained because of the individual's or health care facility's acts or omissions undertaken in good faith while providing health care services in support of the State's COVID-19 response, including but not limited to acts or omissions undertaken because of a lack of resources, attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic, that renders the health care professional or health care facility unable to provide the level or manner of care that otherwise would have been required in the absence of the COVID-19 pandemic and which resulted in the damages at issue, provide