Governor Scott’s Covid-19 Press Conference 1.19.21

Innkeepers are a busy bunch. To save you time, VLA attends Governor Scott’s Covid-19 Press Conferences and takes notes for you. Below is the summary from 1.19.21

Vermont Lodging Association Member Update:
Governor Scott’s Covid-19 Press Conference 1.19.21

Governor Scott and his administration officials expressed cautious optimism that covid-19 cases may be trending downward in Vermont. The governor would like to see a longer stretch of reduced case counts before any restrictions are rolled back, but today’s case total of 102 indicates the trend may continue. Vaccination efforts continue to be slowed by reduced vaccine supply, but Scott is hopeful that the new administration will increase the supply and state allotments, possibly through the Defense Production Act. Thom Lauzon also presented details on the various business economic relief programs in the new federal bill. (Details in notes).

NOTES:

Governor Phil Scott:

- 10 months since Vermont’s first death.
- Have lost 163 Vermonters to the virus.
- In honor of their loved ones and memories left behind – I’ve ordered flags raised at half-mast.
- Signed into law H.48 – give municipalities greater flexibility for upcoming municipal elections due to covid 19. Can mail all registered votes ballots. Thanks legislature for quick action on bills and urges local officials to use the mail in option.
- Beginning next week, those over the age of 75 will be able to sign up for an appointment to get vaccinated – 49K Vermonters. Then will move to 70 and over and then 65 plus. Then move to those with certain high risk conditions. Prioritizing those most likely to die from covid.
- Some states have started with broader guidelines – but without the supply, there will be greater frustration. Overpromising is not the issue.
- More details about next weeks launch of Phase 2 on Friday. Can register online or by phone.
- We knew CARES Act funding wouldn’t be enough for small businesses. Congress passed new bill – with less flexibility for states to spend, but federally managed programs. Previously, we had highest rate of PPP at the time. Want us to take full advantage again.
  - Thom Lauzon: (on Business Economic Relief Programs). Presentation on ACCD webpage.
    - Employee Retention Tax Credit:
      - Refundable tax credit calculated on payroll and health care expenses.
      - Almost immediate access to $’s by reducing payroll tax deposits or by receiving a refund of taxes. www.irs.gov/coronavirus/employee-retention-credit
      - Qualifier is “full or partial suspension” or % revenue reduction
      - You can take a PPP Loan and ERTC (this changed with CAA21)
      - Different rules/limits in 2020 vs. 2021 (2021 is more generous)
      - Up to $5,000 per employee for 2020.
      - Up to $14,000 per employee for 2021
      - No “application”. The credit is taken on IRS Form 941/943
      - If you qualify – 10 Employees – $50,000 in 2020 /$ 140,000 in 2021
      - Unlimited funding / Time to amend using statute of limitations
    - Families First Coronovirus Response Act (FFCRA)
      - Tax Credit to cover costs of providing employees with required sick leave and family medical leave for reasons related to COVID19
      - This is a refundable tax credit
      - Generally, applies to all employers with
      - Began April 1, 2020, Ends March 31, 2021
      - The Employer receives a tax credit based upon required wages paid and employer paid health insurance coverage. Credit is taken on Form 941 or 943
      - If you were entitled to the credit, missed it and provided leave, payroll returns can be amended, and a refund can be received
      - No “double dipping”….can’t use forgiven PPP funds to generate an FFCRA or ERTC tax credit
    - Payroll Protection Program – First Draw – PPP 1.0
      - Under CCA21, PPP 1.0 has re-opened Payroll Protection Program
      - Generally, the PPP 1.0 eligibility rules remain largely the same. Forgivable loans.
      - Borrowers may calculate loan amount on 2019, 2020 or specific one year period.
      - Self employed individuals and partnerships are eligible (always were)
      - Eligible entities who have not received a First Draw loan may apply
      - Borrowers who were approved for a loan but did not draw the full amount may go back and draw the balance
      - Borrowers who cancelled or repaid the loan may go back and draw the balance
      - Apply using SBA Form 2483 (Search “SBA 2483”)
      - If you receive a PPP 1.0, You can go back and apply for a Second Round, but you must have used the First Draw funds on eligible expenses first. This applies to all Second Draw Borrowers as well
      - Some good guidance here (summary of last eight months’ IFRs);
    - Payroll Protection Program – Second Draw – PPP 2.0
      - Eligibility Requirements Under PPP 2.0 Are Slightly Narrower
      - 300 or fewer employees and a 25% reduction in revenue in a traditional (ex. 4/01/20 – 6/30/20) quarter. 2020 compared to 2019. You only need one quarter at a 25% reduction to qualify.
      - Borrowers may calculate loan amount on 2019, 2020 or specific one year period
      - Restaurants and hospitality (NAICS “72”) receive a loan amount using a 3.5 times multiplier (40% more). All others – 2.5 multiplier
      - Affiliation Rules still apply, but have been waived for NAICS “72” (restaurants and hospitality) and eligible news organizations
      - Affiliation Rules still apply, but have been waived for NAICS “72” (restaurants and hospitality) and eligible news organizations
      - If you own or control more than one business, see Affiliate Rules
      - You cannot receive a PPP 2.0 without having first received a PPP 1.0
      - If you receive a “Shuttered Venue Grant”, you are not eligible
      - Apply using SBA Form 2483-SD (Search “SBA 2483-SD”)
      - Guidance (IFR) on PPP 2.0;
    - Economic Injury Disaster Loan – EIDL
      - Long term direct loan program (not forgivable) made directly with SBA to meet financial obligations and operating expenses. Broad allowance of use
      - Generally, businesses with less than 500 employees and non-profits are eligible
      - Businesses located in an “economically distressed area”, who experienced an economic loss of 30% will qualify for an additional Targeted EIDL Advance (generally $10,000)
      - Loan amount depends upon need/application. Generally, six months working capital Economic Injury Disaster Loan
      - Borrowers can utilize EIDL and PPP (1.0 and 2.0). Borrowers cannot use loan funds for the same purpose
      - 30 year term, 3.75% for businesses, 2.75% for non-profits
      - No prepayment penalty
      - Payments are deferred one year
    - Shuttered Benue Operators Grant – SVO
      - Established under CAA21
      - $15bn to eligible applicants who may qualify for SVO Grants equal to 45% of their gross earned revenue. Maximum award of $10m
      - $2bn reserved (not limited) for eligible applicants with less than 50 employees
      - Eligible entities include Live Venue Operators or Promoters, Theatrical Producers, Live Performing Arts Organization Operators, Relevant Museums, Zoos and Aquariums, Motion Theater Operators and Talent Representatives.
      - Broad allowed use of grant funds
      - Qualifying applicants with 50 or less employees will be given priority
      - Grants will be awarded using a tiered structure to provide funds to those suffering the greatest loss first (First Round – 90% or greater revenue loss, then 70%, then 25% and so on)
      - Program is not yet live. Program information here;
Commissioner Mike Pieciak
- More optimistic picture this week – US may have surpassed it’s third peak.
- National 7 day case rate has declined. But testing average is as high as its been.
- New case rate slowing in every region of the country.
- Decrease in national hospitalizations.
- Over 400,000 deaths nationally.
- New variant can be the more dominant strain by March.
- Regional: 12 % decrease in cases.
- Vermont – Additional 1000 in past week. Cases likely to remain high.
- Vaccine administration – Vermont 2^nd in Northeast, 7^th nationally.
Commissioner Mark Levine
- Past four days have trended downward – down to 102 cases.
- Passed holiday surge.
- Do continue to see cases in long term care facilities.
- 48 outbreaks – 460 situations.
- Vermont’s approach for vaccination follows data.
- Key driver for at risk conditions – increased risk for dying if contraction of covid 19.
- Age prioritization is our North Star.
- Everyone will be informed when how they will receive vaccine.
- Lucky we have a vaccine already – usually takes 3-8 months.
- New variant in US – likely will be in VT if not already here. Doesn’t seem to cause more illness, but is more contagious. Seems the vaccine will be just as effective.
- Coming down the stretch of our race.
Questions:
- Calvin,- What was vaccine allocation for last week – appeal directly to pharmaceutical companies?
  - Smith – 7100 vaccines. (later amended – over 9000 – 2k will be going to 1A – which will finish that group)
  - Scott – Our conduit is the federal government. – they’re working with pharmaceuticals. Believe the President-Elect is well aware of the supply chain need. Not like PPE – won’t help us to go right to the manufacturers.
  - Calvin – Treasurer Pearce recommending cutting pension for teachers – right step at the time like this?
    - Scott – Haven’t seen the proposal, step in the right direction to at least have the conversation. Unfunded liability of $4 billion. And that grows. Unsustainable. Not something I can advocate for – willing partner. Treasurer and Legislature have to have the conversation.
  - You’ve been warning about this (pension) for a long time…
    - Scott – It’s appropriate for the Treasurer to come to some sort of conclusion. It affects our bond rating. I applaud her for bringing this forward.
      - Do the money committees need to make this their number one priority (aside from covid)
        
        Scott- They need to make it a priority. We’ll see what they’re reaction is. Pearce has a lot of credibility with the legislature.
    - Our success here with dealing with the pandemic – has this gone against us for getting vaccines?
      - Scott – It’s done equitably by population. I don’t think we’re being punished at this time for our success.
  - Stewart, NBC5 – Smith said the 7100 would be a 20% doses from last week – is that acceptable?
    - Scott – We’re at the mercy of the federal government. What we ask for and what we get are two different things.
    - Smith – Let me check on those numbers -we were banking on 8800.
    - Stewart – Tomorrow is a big day, how are you feeling about the turning of the page with the new administration? What are you most looking forward to?
      - Scott – We have a long road ahead of us. So must unrest in our country. Trying to mend and come together is going to be a tremendous task. Tomorrow is the first day on the road to recovery. Light at the end of the tunnel for the pandemic, but need to see it through. Look forward to the President being sworn in.
  - Times Argus – Have you had any conversations with the incoming administration – given you more confidence on incoming vaccination allotments?
    - Scott- No one on one. But worked with NGA. Our health department and regional partners in constant contact with AHS CDC… working together to advocate for more of a supply. If other platforms come on line that could bolster supply. Hopeful but not confident that it will go more smoothly. Communication has been an issue.
  - Anne, VTDigger – Washington Post reporting that is no national reservoir for vaccines – what does that do to rollout in VT?
    - Levine – Originally, Feds made sure that for every dose that went out to states, the stockpile held onto the second dose and then they’d release it in time for the person in the state to get their second dose. Changed policy – sent everything out and didn’t replenish stockpile. Meeting to see what that means. Don’t know what’s going to be announced.
    - Anne – What are you doing to ensure that the page for signing up for vaccine won’t crash?
      - Smith – Have had some experience with the platform that we’re using. Base from testing program. Have experience with large numbers of people coming on the platform. Most Vermonters have a pleasant experience signing up for the test.
    - Avery, WCAX – Heard from viewers on higher risk list – but concerned because they’re conditions weren’t included in the vaccine trials?
      - Levine – Minor concern. When 30-40K are in a vaccine trial, some conditions won’t be represented. But small amount of issues. Feel very confident.
    - Wilson, AP – Thought that vaccines might make a difference by spring, but that seems to be sliding – how much later now?
      - Scott – Shows how vulnerable we are. At mercy to federal government. Thought we would start with 10K a week and that would scale up. But has been opposite. If the new President scales up production, we’ll get more. (Possibly Defense Production Act)
      - Levine – Trying to get optimism them- already have 30K vaccinated.
    - Cat, WCAX – Cases go down, will you be using data to ease up on multi-household gatherings?
      - Scott – A little early to make sure it’s a trend. Hopefully we’ll be able to lift restrictions soon. Open the spigot. It’s hopeful. Hope to go back to the travel map. And get back to where we were in September. I’d like to see at least a week or two.
      - Cat- At some point will you release benchmarks?
        
        Scott – Very hesitant to do that. Will continue to monitor and see what we think is right.
    - Ham Davis – Confusion over what receiving the vaccine means? Question over the number of people who won’t take it – are state’s underselling the vaccine? Once 6 people are vaccinated – can they have dinner together or no?
      - Scott – Need to provide confidence in what we’re doing and the product we’re pushing for. That will come over time.
      - Levine – Has 95% effectiveness. Know that safety is really good. 23 adverse effects reported. Will be getting data on uptake. Don’t know about ability to transfer virus from now – but virologists say it would be unusual for a vaccine to work that will allow for transmission. Can’t promise they could gather in Feb – because to much virus in community. But will be able to soon – mid later spring. Certainly the summertime.
    - Mike D- DCF doesn’t respond to education neglect for kids after completion of 6^th grade?
      - Smith – I’ll follow up. Hadn’t heard a change in policy.
      - Mike – Reader asking why behavioral interventionist in classroom is getting vaccine, but teacher is not?
        
        Levine – If someone is part of the healthcare workforce and is patient facing – get vaccine. Intent to protect those who have contact with patients.
    - Lisa, Valley Reporter – Event planners need to know how to plan for this season – 2021- are there any benchmarks that people should be watching?
      - Scott – I know that many groups are concerned about this and have contacted our Restart team. Hesitant to create benchmark that we can’t fulfill. Very sensitive to the lead time that people need for some specific larger events.
      - Lisa – Second Homeowners – was told that they could receive vaccines in Vermont, then was told no. What changed?
        
        Smith- What’s changed – we decided that Vermont residents would get it first, due to limited supply. Those second homeowners have other options to get vaccine in their home state. Determined it was the fairest way.
    - Tom, VT Standard – Concern about border counties – Windsor county has seen 37% increase recently. Are border communities seeing higher rates?
      - Scott – NH had 1000 cases yesterday. It affects us. Maine’s numbers are coming down.
    - Andrea, SevenDays – Hoping to follow up on DC bus trip – any cases?
      - Levine – Not aware of any cases. Have been looking for that.
      - Schirling – Bus company doesn’t operate much in Vermont – unaware of capacity restrictions.
    - Peter, VPR – Gov, in your state of the state, you said we could have 120K Vermonters vaccinated by winters end – how has the rollout shaken your confidence in that projection?
      - Scott – Trepidation with lack of reserve with second dose. But moving forward. Hopeful and it may be a long winter. Hope the supply is there.
    - Greg, County Courier – State Police seem to be making distinctions on who’s getting vaccine based on rank?
      - Schirling – Lines of demarcation for first responders have to do with job description not based on rank. But may happen that way
    - Tim, Vermont Business Magazine – Will businesses in Vermont get same amount in PPP2 as PPP1?
      - Darcy, SBA – Based on average monthly payroll, but in 72 code get 3.5 times (rather than 2.5). But have to apply for PPP1 if you hadn’t previously. 12401 received PPP1.
    - Erin, VTDigger – State budget will have to be cut?
      - Scott – Will have E-Board meeting today. You’ll learn more from my budget address next week.
    - Guy Page – S.25 would seemingly allow integrated marijuana growing operations to bypass towns and go to Control Board. Opponents concerned that it would allow Big Marijuana to bypass town vote.
      - Scott – Not aware of it. Lots of bills introduced and go nowhere. Haven’t even formed Cannabis Control Board yet. Do have suggestions on what we can do to improve the law.
      - Page – What is reasonable time frame to know that these two dose recipients are immune and can’t transmit?
        
        Levine – As quickly as scientific lets us know. Pfizer trial leads us to that it may have impact on transmissibility.
    - Local22 – Know that variant has popped up in Massachusetts – when it does here, will our response change?
      - Levine – Saratoga is closer than Boston…CT has had a case. Suspect it’s here already, or will be soon.
    - Ed, Newport Daily Express – 3/10 healthcare workers refused vaccine – how are we going to reach herd immunity?
      - Scott – Hope that the more confidence that they have, the more people will get it.
      - Levine – Those were national numbers – want to get handle on numbers for 1A when it closes. For herd immunity – it’s a guessing game. Goes from 70-90%.
    - Steve, NEKTV – …. Aware that astra-zeneca is working with Russians? How did the Russians get vaccine first?
      - Levine – No… and Russians had their own version of Operation Warp Speed…
    - Joe – Barton Chronicle – Are people who are getting vaccinated getting credentials?
      - Smith – Don’t have an answer to that. Some issuing cards, but don’t know how widespread that is
    - Andrew, Caledonian Record – More details on vaccination clinics?
      - Smith – Yes, Friday. Encouraging family members to help seniors to register online if they need help.