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September 15, 2021

Lamont to extend emergency, keep key COVID mandates in place

Mark Pazniokas | CT Mirror Gov. Ned Lamont says he wants legislative review, but he intends to maintain key COVID mandates.
By Mark Pazniokas, CT Mirror

Gov. Ned Lamont said Tuesday morning he expects to extend his COVID-19 emergency declaration for at least 90 days, a necessary step in his view to maintain key mandates, including a statewide requirement for wearing masks in schools and for educators and health-care workers to be vaccinated.

Under the provisions of a law passed in July, when legislators endorsed an extension of his emergency powers until Sept. 30, the six top leaders of the General Assembly will have the authority to reject any of the governor’s executive orders, a review Lamont welcomed.

“What I want is legislative input on the executive orders,” Lamont told reporters after remarks to the MetroHartford Alliance  business association at Dunkin’ Donuts Park. “I like to know where they stand. I like to have their fingerprints on some decisions. When we work together, we’re a lot stronger.”

Lamont’s chief of staff and general counsel will brief legislative leaders on the administration’s view of the current threat posed by the pandemic, as well as the executive orders it considers vital to continue. The briefing was to be conducted by Zoom.

“We’re going to provide an overview of the executive orders that are in place and have, I would say, a very thorough conversation about what the next steps should be come Sept. 30,” said Paul Mounds, chief of staff.

His staff later said the governor most likely would extend the emergency by 120 days, covering the period until the General Assembly convenes in February.

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