|
All across Utah and our nation, families, workers, and business owners are facing extraordinary challenges as a result of COVID-19. This pandemic is impacting everyone in some way, and my heart goes out especially to the hundreds of thousands of hardworking Americans who are being laid off, employers that are shutting down as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and families struggling to cope with serious illness.
In addition to the coronavirus resources page on my website, my team has created a "Help for Small Businesses" page designed to help Utah's small businesses stay updated with resources for assistance. We’ll be regularly updating this webpage with responses to FAQs—frequently asked questions our office is getting from small business owners—as well as federal, state, and local government assistance resources.
This page also has guidance regarding the CARES Act, which was signed into law on Friday and provides support for both individuals and businesses as our nation confronts health and economic challenges as a result of COVID-19. The bill contains several provisions I fought for—including direct cash relief for workers and families, grants and loans for small businesses to keep their employees, and an expansion of unemployment insurance to immediately assist workers who are laid-off, furloughed, self-employed or independent contractors. It also includes much-needed resources for our health care personnel on the front lines of this crisis, and a bipartisan measure I helped introduce to strengthen medical supply chain so hospitals have necessary equipment and supplies. A brief summary of the CARES Act is available here.
Small businesses are such a vital part of our economy. I encourage everyone who is able to pitch in and support our local small businesses during this difficult time by shopping online, ordering takeout/delivery, or purchasing gift cards for a later use. Keep scrolling for more information on our new "Help for Small Businesses" webpage.
Stay safe,
 |