Harrison Thorp 7:22 a.m.
Friday, June 12, 2020 7:22 am
|
CONCORD - Gov. Sununu opened up the CARES ACT coffers on Thursday, earmarking more than $140 million for financial aid to cash-strapped renters and homeowners, broadband expansion, aid to the homeless, and financial support of elder care facilities, private colleges and the state's struggling chambers of commerce.
During a fast-paced hourlong press conference in Concord, the governor also proclaimed that the state's Stay at Home Order 2.0 will be officially lifted on Monday along with the prohibition of groups of more than 10.
He stressed that social distancing, masks and hand sanitation imperatives are still advised, but added that the relaxation of restrictions should be welcome news for Granite Staters.
Monday also marks the return of gyms at 50 percent capacity, amateur sports inside indoor facilities, road and running races, bowling alleys, tourist trains and small racetracks.
The governor also said he was hopeful that the Loudon racetrack will be open - with fans - for its summertime NASCAR race.
Also nearing opening are funeral homes and charitable gaming venues, which he said are very crucial to many of the state's nonprofits.
The last of the prohibitions would be lifted on June 29 to include indoor movie theaters, performing arts venues like the Rochester Opera House and amusement parks like Canobie Lake.
Show me the money
The $35 million rental and housing assistance program begins effective July 1 and would allow for financial aid and the installation of a 30-day eviction notice instead of the current minimum notice of seven days.
The money would be doled out to distressed renters in the form of a onetime grant or short-term assistance while back rent is paid down.
Other CARES ACT funding:
$50 million broadband expansion that would focus on connectivity to homes, libraries and schools
$15 million for homeless shelters
$2 million for chambers of commerce as part of a contract partnership
$30 million to assist longterm care facilities, which have born much of the COVID-19 burden
$10 million for private colleges, universities
New numbers
DHHS Commissioner Shibinette also announced 34 new COVID-19 cases in the state with four news hospitalization and seven deaths, all at longterm elder care facilities.