The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to present challenges to individuals and businesses across our state and country. It is no secret that many have struggled as a result of this novel pandemic. All levels of government have come together to provide support for those families and businesses in need.
Governor Kay Ivey just recently announced the Revive Alabama grant program which provides funding through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to support small businesses affected by COVID-19. This program includes relief for our state’s farms, which have greatly been impacted by this virus.
Revive Alabama will provide assistance through reimbursements to ensure qualifying Alabama businesses have a chance to recover. Applications can be accessed beginning at noon on July 16 until midnight on July 26 at the Alabama Department of Revenue’s website.
Many of you also know, when Congress passed the CARES Act, it established the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) through the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide direct incentives to keep employees on small business payrolls. Both chambers of Congress recently approved the application extension of PPP funding for five additional weeks, as roughly $135 million of unused funds remained in the program’s budget upon the original June 30 deadline.
Small businesses now have the opportunity to submit applications until August 8, while Congress works to propose possible additional Coronavirus relief legislation. For more information on applying for small business loans, visit the SBA’s website.
Additionally, the Alabama Department of Labor (ADOL) announced that beginning on July 5, the state started offering Extended Benefits (EB) for those who qualify and have exhausted earlier benefits.
The expanded weekly benefits under the CARES Act for those who filed for unemployment as a result of COVID-19 is set to expire at the end of this month. Visit ADOL’s website for more information on unemployment benefits.
The United States was founded on the notion that strength is found in unity. As this pandemic continues to impact those in our communities, we must remain unified and hopeful for the future.
Please continue to do your part by abiding by all issued guidelines in your area, from wearing a mask or facial covering in public to practicing social distancing and personal responsibility.
We are stronger when we stand together and do what’s right for the good of our families and our neighbors.
Martha Roby represents Alabama’s Second Congressional District. She lives in Montgomery, Alabama, with her husband Riley and their two children.
