COVID-19 Update: Closure of Non-Essential Retail | Rhode Island Commerce
On Saturday, March 28, Governor Raimondo announced additional measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Rhode Island, including a Stay at Home Order. As part of these measures, the Governor announced that beginning Monday, March 30,  noncritical retail businesses  must close their in-person operations. They may remain open for receiving and servicing new orders and shipments.
 
We do not take this step lightly. As the Governor said today, we are working to keep as many businesses open and operating as possible. Please note that while this is a significant step, we are not asking non-retail businesses to close at this time. For example, manufacturers may remain open. For a list of critical retail businesses, please  click here . If you have questions on these guidelines, please fill out the web form available  here . You may also call the Department of Business Regulation at (401) 889-5550. 
 
As a reminder, we continue to ask that all businesses operate within strict parameters to prevent the spread of COVID-19. For ideas on how to minimize in-person interactions in order to continue operating safely, see our COVID-19 business checklist . All businesses, including business service providers, are required to work from home (and enable their employees to work from home) wherever possible. The list of businesses that remain closed at this time are noncritical retail, entertainment, recreation and other close-contact businesses. Restaurants and bars may continue to offer takeout, delivery, and drive-through options and remain closed for dine-in service.
 
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email us at info@commerceri.com or call us at (401) 521-HELP. 
 
For the latest information about COVID-19, please visit  the official page of the Rhode Island Department of Health . People or businesses with general questions about COVID-19 and how to follow the latest guidance, should call  (401) 222-8022 , or if the call is outside of business hours, call 211.
 
The Department of Labor and Training is ready to assist employees and employers with questions on Unemployment Insurance, Paid Sick and Safe Leave, or other work-related programs. You can contact the DLT by emailing   dlt.covid19@dlt.ri.gov   or calling  (401) 462-2020 .
 
For more updated information on our services and efforts, including information on SBA loans, free technical support, and how to donate supplies, please visit our website at  http://commerceri.com/covid-19 . We will be bringing you additional information about the newly-passed Federal stimulus measures. 

YOUR BUSINESS ADVISOR

YOUR BUSINESS ADVISOR

YOUR BUSINESS ADVISOR

YOUR BUSINESS ADVISOR

NEWSLETTER