Travel Risks in the Age of COVID

A winter coronavirus surge is hitting many parts of the country, spurred in part by holiday gatherings that became spreader events. In Connecticut, we have averaged between 2,000 and 3,000 new cases per day since December 1. In response, Governor Ned Lamont issued Executive Order 9S on December 18, updating the state’s COVID-19-related travel restrictions to bring them more in line with the most recent CDC guidance.

“Given the current high rates of COVID-19 throughout the United States and internationally, Connecticut continues to strongly discourage all nonessential interstate travel at this time as the risks are too severe,” Gov. Lamont said in a statement to NBC Connecticut.

Order 9S requires anyone traveling to Connecticut from any state or country to self-quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. The following groups of people are exempt from the requirement:

• People traveling to Connecticut for less than 24 hours
• People traveling from New York, New Jersey or Rhode Island
• Those who test negative for COVID in the 72 hours prior to entering the state
• Essential workers traveling for job-related purposes
• Anyone who has tested positive for COVID within the last 90 days and who has recovered or has not been symptomatic

Everyone who travels to Connecticut — even those who are exempt from the quarantine — are required to complete an online Travel Health Form upon arriving in the state. A violation of this requirement may result in a $500 fine.

Employers are also free to impose travel and quarantine restrictions that are more stringent than the state rules. Employees may be required to work from home, and those who cannot do so may qualify for paid leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. A Connecticut employment lawyer can assist you in determining your eligibility for FFCRA benefits.

Travel restrictions are subject to change, to become either more restrictive or more permissive, as the data changes. As always, everyone is encouraged to continue practicing social distancing, wearing masks and washing their hands in order to help reduce the spread of the virus.

The lawyers of Gesmonde, Pietrosimone & Sgrignari, L.L.C. are available to answer questions and assist individuals regarding COVID-19 travel restrictions in Connecticut. We have offices in Hamden and East Haven, and we can arrange virtual consultations. Please call 203-745-0942 or contact us online.