Log-in information will be emailed mid-morning for those registered to attend.
Phase 3 of Health Care Reopening: Today marks the next step in the reopening of the state’s health care sector. Hospitals and care facilities can begin doing non-emergency surgeries and procedures at 50% of their pre-COVID-19-era patient volume. Facilities will then determine their own patient capacities starting May 27, as long as progress continues. Click here to learn about those directives from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
Upcoming Webinar on Restaurants Reopening: This event is tentatively scheduled for either this Friday at 10 a.m. or Tuesday, May 19 at 10 a.m. The Paducah Chamber and Paducah Convention and Visitors Bureau are working with the Kentucky Restaurant Association to bring this to you as soon as the guidelines have been issued by the state. More details will be announced soon.
Other COVID Related Info: Ready to Reopen: A Playbook for Your Small Business: The U.S. Chamber has released a guide to helping businesses of all types and in all regions navigate the complex process of reopening and evolving post-coronavirus pandemic. Reopening and adjusting to the "new normal" will involve several steps for businesses to take, from researching, communicating, and executing plans to pivoting strategically. This guide will help you to be ready.
Small Business Administration News on Loans: As the Paycheck Protection Program continues to evolve to meet the needs of small business owners and employees effectively, the U.S Small Business Administration and U.S. Department of Treasury have increased the SBA Express Maximum Loan amount temporarily to $1,000,000 through December 31, 2020. In addition, veteran-owned small businesses are eligible for an upfront guarantee fee relief for SBA Express Loans.
Some Answers for Small Businesses: In last week’s National Small Business Town Hall from Inc. and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, small business owners received advice and answers to their questions about emergency financial assistance available to them, as well as insights and strategies for the economic reopening. Key takeaways from the event for small businesses included these insights:
There is still PPP (Payroll Protection Program) loan money available and businesses should continue to apply.
Employers who want to bring back employees who have been laid off will not be penalized in PPP loan forgiveness if the employee chooses not to return to work.
It is not known yet whether the window for loan use and forgiveness will be expanded beyond June 30, 2020.
Businesses need to develop and document their plans for reopening and dealing with sick employees. Ensure you’re listening to employees and have a dialogue with them about your plans and their concerns.
Do You Need a Local PPE Supplier: Having the proper and required personal protective equipment is critical to opening a business once it is allowed by state guidelines. In this time of need, the Paducah Chamber is helping to identify companies that are manufacturing or selling PPE to local businesses. Check out these local suppliers for your needs. Shop Local, Buy Local.
<<<Click here to see the current list of suppliers of PPE and other items.>>>
Note: This list is compiled from businesses who responded to our survey. If you would like your business added as a supplier, please respond to our survey.
