COVID-19 EDITION: Coronavirus pandemic emergency hits small biz federal contractors

Congress acts on med/econ aid

Two COVID-19 emergency bills cover tests, paid leave; Rubio, Cardin seeking $350 billion for small business loans, grants relief to include in $2 trillion stimulus bill

     The last two weeks have seen a whirlwind of activity in Washington, DC as the nation prepares for an anticipated surge in coronavirus (COVID-19) infections, a huge strain on health care workers and facilities and diminished economic activity due to needed containment measures.

      To date, Congress has passed two coronavirus-related bills--including loans and paid-leave provisions affecting small businesses-- and is negotiating a third bill for economic relief with the White House. The Small Business Administration is making available disaster loans in declared states.

Congressional emergency bill

      Congress on March 4 approved HR 6074, which is an $8.3 billion emergency appropriations bill for prevention, preparation and response efforts against the virus, as well as loan subsidies for ...more....