Federal, state, and local governments in the US continue to develop responses to the ongoing coronavirus threat, many of which are meant to help US small businesses and their employees.

Federal Support

Here are several important federal government resources that have recently been announced:

• The Small Business Administration has published resources for small businesses, including information on loans and loan guarantees and guidance for employers and employees.
• Federal housing agencies are halting foreclosures and evictions for federally backed mortgages.
• The Department of Labor released new flexible standards for unemployment insurance.

Additionally, Congress has just signed legislation into law that includes:

• Increased funding for food and nutrition assistance programs.
• $1 billion in funds for states to increase unemployment insurance.
• Reimbursable paid leave and family leave benefits for employees at companies with less than 500 employees.

State Support

States are also stepping up to the plate to help residents and local businesses deal with the negative financial impacts of the coronavirus. Below are resources available to residents in the 5 states with the most Main Street members (we will soon be expanding this list to include more states):

California:

• California Office of Small Business Advocate - small business centers are providing support remotely to help CA small businesses access capital for disaster relief funding.
• California State Treasurer’s Office - CA State Treasurer Fiona Ma has developed a resource list for small business owners affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. It includes resources from the federal, state, and local governments, nonprofits, and the private sector. 

Florida:

• Florida Emergency Bridge Loan Program – created exclusively for FL small businesses impacted by the coronavirus.

Texas:

• Texas Department of State Health Services – has created an Economic Injury Worksheet so TX small businesses can determine if they qualify for economic assistance.

New York:

• New York State COVID-19 Information Page – contains helpful information for protecting yourself and your family.
• New York State Business Development Corporation – has developed this list of resources for small businesses impacted by the virus.
• New York City Small Business Services – is providing assistance to NYC small businesses affected by the virus.

Pennsylvania:

• Commonwealth of Pennsylvania – has created this detailed COVID-19 response guide for businesses and individuals.
• Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development – is offering this thorough list of resources for PA businesses.

Additionally, here are two very good resources for residents and business owners in any US state:

• National Governors Association – guide to what you need to know about the coronavirus.  
• National Conference of State Legislatures – has created this detailed list of important coronavirus legislation in all 50 states.

The eBay Government Relations team will continue to monitor developments at the federal, state and local level and provide regular updates about small business policies and assistance that may be made available.