COVID 19 RESOURCES

The Impact of Governor Wolf’s Recent Business Closure and Stay at Home Orders

With individuals residing in Allegheny County, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Monroe County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County ordered to stay at home with only certain limited exceptions, and non-life sustaining businesses ordered to close, business owners struggle with what to do next.  The full text of the Governor’s order and other related information can be found here.  While there are many unanswered questions and additional guidance is continually being issued, business owners do have resources available to them.  

Organizations are advocating for the interest of business owners as the economic impact of a lengthy forced closure will be long lasting.  Chambers of Commerce, both nationally and locally, have set up resource sites for business.  Many organizations are offering updates and webinars for business owners.  

This week, the U. S. Chamber of Commerce called for legislation that would (1) cancel payment of all payroll taxes typically paid by employers for March, April, and May, (2) expand and streamlining loan programs for small businesses with fewer than 500 employees experiencing revenue loss as a result of the coronavirus and (3) enable the creation of credit facilities to provide loans and loan guarantees to employers with more than 500 employees experiencing significant revenue loss as a result of the coronavirus.  Other organizations have called on lawmakers to consider stimulus packages for small business owners in many forms.  

In Pennsylvania, loans and grants are being made available to business owners.  In addition to programs available statewide, Philadelphia has also created a fund for no-interest loans and grants.  More information can be found in this Philadelphia Business Journal article here.

Additional resources can be found through the following agencies and organizations:

U.S. Chamber of Commerce

PA Chamber of Business & Industry

PA Department of Community & Economic Development

National Federation of Independent Business Owners