URGENT REQUEST:
The Agency of Commerce and Community Development is currently seeking manufacturers and construction companies with a supply of N95 face-masks to consider assisting in the state’s response to the COVID-19 virus by making these masks available to healthcare providers immediately.N95 face-masks are a critical tool needed to ensure our healthcare professionals are able to provide care to those most impacted by the virus. These masks have become increasingly difficult to procure and are urgently needed in our healthcare facilities. ACCD understands that many manufacturers, construction companies, and others utilize these masks in a variety of tasks.
What should you do?
If your company is able to support the state’s response to COVID-19 in this way, please contact the State Emergency Operations Center as soon as possible at (800) 347-0488.
Business Impact and SBA Loans
Governor Scott has declared a State of Emergency and the federal government, through the SBA, can provide Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to businesses. However, the Governor must demonstrate that enough small businesses in a disaster area have suffered substantial economic injury as a result of the disaster. This can include: economic injury; supply chain disruption; workforce disruption (including that caused by lack of childcare); business travel; visitor travel and tourism activities; remote work capabilities.
What should you do?
Complete an SBA assessment form, available on the Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD) website and return it to commerce.covid19@vermont.gov as soon as possible. This will assist the Administration to advocate for eligibility for the State. Please also copy ACEDC so we can continue to advocate for businesses in our region.
Labor Guidance
The Department of Labor is updating guidance for Employers and Employees daily, including information on the potential impact on unemployment insurance benefits, employee sick-time and other issues as a result of COVID-19.
What should you do?
Check The Department of Labor website often for the latest information.
Additional Business Resources:
- Addison County Economic Development Corporation: Fred Kenney, Executive Director, (802)777-8349 or fkenney@addisoncountyedc.org
- Vt Small Business Development Center: Sarah Kearns, Addison County Advisor, (802)771-5820 or skearns@vtsbdc.org
- ACCD COVID-19 hotline: (802) 461-5143. Staffed Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Joint ACCD/Department of Labor Newsletter: Sign up at: Business and Economic Response to COVID-19 Newsletter
- Unemployment Insurance Info: UI Employer Services – 802-828-4344
- General Department of Labor Questions: labor.commissioner@vermont.gov
Potential Vermont Legislation
The House passed H.681 to provide relief to employers regarding Unemployment Insurance rates and employees in regards to unemployment benefits. The bill is now in the Senate for consideration.
What can you do?
Contact Senators Christopher Bray and Ruth Hardy to ask for their support for this bill.
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