The Trump Administration extended the deadline for companies to repay PPP loans from May 7, 2020 to May 14, 2020. The decision comes after many groups and organizations requested the administration provide additional time for companies to determine if they would return the funds.
The U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform released a poll showing that Americans across the political spectrum believe that employers must have protections from COVID-related lawsuits. The poll shows more than 6-in-10 Americans say Congress should extend liability protections to employers.
Are companies required to offer COBRA to employees that lose coverage under a group health plan due to a furlough relating to COVID-19?
According to HHS, a portion of the $100 billion Provider Relief Fund will be used to reimburse healthcare providers, at Medicare rates, for COVID-related treatment of the uninsured. As a condition, providers are obligated to abstain from “balance billing” any patient for COVID-related treatment.
Many Arizona small businesses received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding to maintain payroll levels from loss of revenue. The Small Business Administration (SBA) released an Interim Final Rule addressing eligibility issues and requirements for certain pledges. The CARES Act requires the SBA to issue additional guidance on rules for loan forgiveness by April 27, 2020.
Governor Ducey issued an Executive Order temporarily suspending commercial tenant evictions, including lock out, notice to vacate, or any other attempt to inhibit the operations of a business associated with inability to pay rent caused by COVID-19. The Executive Order expires on May 31, 2020.
According to Eric Stevenson, President, Nationwide Retirement Plans, advisors to retirement plans will play a critical role, stating “This is the time they have to be more visible than they have ever been,” said Stevenson. “They have to be in constant communication with plan sponsors, even if from a distance.”
On March 30, 2020, Arizona Governor Doug Ducey announced Arizona’s version of a stay-at-home executive order. Unique to Arizona, the Governor’s order includes a strong focus on mental health and encourages Arizonans to participate in outdoor activities in accordance with social distancing measures.
The SBA strongly encouraged its lending partners to offer deferment relief to existing borrowers that have been adversely affected by COVID-19-related economic disruptions.
Congress is proposing a stimulus bill, which is expected to become law in the next few days. Here are some of the major provisions and potential impacts.
Governor Ducey declared most Arizona counties, including Maricopa, a disaster area. This means business owners can apply for low-interest loans online through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Application Portal.