Gov. Ned Lamont announced an executive order that would reserve state hotels and short-term rentals for essential workers that will go into effect today.

Hotels and other short-term rentals will be prohibited from renting for leisure or vacation purposes.

Lamont also detailed the latest state figures of those who have been infected, tested positive, or have died from the virus at a Thursday news conference.

He says there are 267 new COVID-19 diagnoses in Connecticut, out of 1,700 tests, and 27 new deaths, bringing the total to 112 deaths.

He also added that 57 of 215 state nursing homes have reported COVID-19 cases, a stark rise from previous numbers.

The governor also announced staggering unemployment numbers, with 220,000 claims made so far.

- $350B for Paycheck Relief Act for payroll and and health benefits for 4 months.
- Lamont says stimulus checks could go out within two weeks.
- Window for new small business loans opens Friday, also a SBA grant program that offers up to $10,000 within "36 hours."
- Lamont stresses to "document all COVID-related expenses."
- Those who receive SNAP benefits will be able to get the maximum amount allowed.
- State is expanding shelter services, de-congregating shelters.
- Projecting there will be at least $100 million costs the state will have to bear.
- "Expediting" state payments to nonprofits. State will absorb an extra $130 million in Medicaid costs, some federal grants will require state match.