With the Safer at Home Emergency Order lifted, many businesses will be able open and/or expand their operations. It is essential that businesses do so in a responsible manner by following general guidelines, industry best practices, and local regulations at the city and/or county level. To help you navigate these reopening challenges, we have complied a list of helpful resources and guidelines.
Reopen Resources
Reopen Guidelines, Community Updates, & Information Sources
Reopen Guidelines
As businesses reopen and expand their operations, businesses need to do so responsibility and continue to follow the general business guidelines provided by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and/or consult with their respective trade organization to identify industry best practices. View the full list on the WEDC website.
Funding Resources for Small Businesses
Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act
The programs and initiatives in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that was just passed by Congress are intended to assist business owners with whatever needs they have right now
Community Updates
City of Whitewater
The City of Whitewater provides updates regarding COVID-19 and it’s impact on the community. The city continues to monitor regional, state and federal information and is taking steps to comply with best practices and direction provided by public health officials.
Walworth County
According to their press release on May 14th, Walworth County’s Division of Public Health will not be issuing orders that replace Safer at Home at this time. Their website offers additional COVID-19 updates as well as a reopening blueprint plan.
Jefferson County
According to their press release on May 14th, Jefferson County Health Department encourages all Jefferson County residents to voluntarily comply with the key components of the Safer at Home Order. Guidance on large gatherings will be coming out soon.
HR Resources
Families First Coronavirus Response Act
The US Department of Labor updated their guidance on the on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA FAQ) that ‘clarifies’ how this new legislation interacts with existing Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA FAQs) regulations, especially as it relates to FFCRA Paid Sick Leave.
The Department of Workforce Development provides answers to frequently asked questions in regard to unemployment, employment & training, worker’s compensation, and equal right
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services provides additional guidance for businesses, employers, and workers as well as resources to help manage stress and help adapt to change.
Information Sources
Center for Disease Control & Prevention
The CDC provides resources on how to protect yourself, what to do if you think you are sick, details on what you need to know, and resources for the community.
World Health Organization
The World Health Organization provides guidance on how to protect yourself, the latest updates, up-to-date stats on the pandemic, research and development updates, & other resources.
Wisconsin Department of Health Services
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services provides resources on how to protect yourself, what to do if you think you are sick, details on what you need to know, and resources for the community.