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While the COVID-19 pandemic continues its destructive pace, the devastating effects on the economy have come into clearer view. No business, small or large, is immune from the effects of the virus and the measures we are taking to counter it. Fortunately, Congress and President Trump have been hard at work to come up with solutions for keeping businesses and their employees afloat during this pandemic.
There is no doubt America relies on our farmers and ranchers to provide a strong, safe, and stable food supply. In times such as the current COVID-19 situation, their importance is even more obvious.
As the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic continues, most of our attention has been focused on fighting this disease and the economic consequences of our response. While we continue the fight this disease, we must also be sure to not let our guard down against fraud. Recently, there have been numerous reports of scams taking advantage of this pandemic.
Join Congressman Smith, the Nebraska District Office of the Small Business Administration, and other speakers to learn about programs in the CARES Act which could help your small business during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Preregistration is required, and can be done here>>>bit.ly/2wVQloR
For additional information, please contract Congressman Smith's Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900.
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith released the following statement after President Trump approved Governor Ricketts request for a major disaster declaration due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic:
In order to address COVID-19, Congress and President Trump have enacted three major pieces of legislation to fight this disease and help as many Americans as possible stay employed, with the goal of resuming our strong economy as soon as possible when this pandemic subsides. While agencies such as Treasury and the Small Business Administration (SBA) are working to roll out these programs as quickly as possible, I hope the information below will be helpful to you in this challenging time.
Just a few weeks ago, we were in the midst of the strongest economy in years. We now find ourselves with questions about what will happen to our economy due to the COVID-19 outbreak. In contrast with other times of economic uncertainty, this interruption in our economy was not caused by bad decisions or nefarious actors, nor were we nearing the end of a business cycle. It was caused by a viral pandemic: a natural disaster. Though it may be painful, American resolve will bring us through this crisis.
While the COVID-19 outbreak continues, drastic measures have been put in place to slow the spread. Unprecedented actions such as the closures of shops and restaurants, recommendations against gatherings of more than 10 people, and the canceling of many sporting and entertainment events have altered our very way of life. Due to the seriousness of this issue, President Trump has taken actions to keep us safe.
It is clear coronavirus presents a major threat to the health of the most vulnerable among us, and Americans are rightfully taking steps to protect themselves, their families, friends, and neighbors from transmission. In addition, federal, state, and local governments have taken measures to fight against the spread of this virus, provide care for those infected, and maintain economic security. It is important for all of us to take this seriously, and to remain calm.
Every ten years, our government is required by our Constitution to conduct a census of our population. This year, from March 12-20, the United States Census Bureau will send out census forms and instruction to every household in the United States. Although the form may be an inconvenience, it is of the utmost importance to our political process.