The Office of Legislative Research has published the following report:

Governor's Executive Order Authority - 2020-R-0131 - You asked (1) by what authority the governor can issue executive orders and whether there are any limitations on their subject matter, (2) how courts determine whether an executive order violates the constitutional separation of powers doctrine, and (3) if, and under what circumstances, orders have been issued to amend statutory laws.

See also: Frequently Asked Questions on the State of Connecticut’s actions related to COVID-19.