Below is a press release from State Representative Dave Robertson’s Office:
WILMINGTON, MA — As Massachusetts finds itself on a plateau with regards to the COVID infection rate, our various levels of governments have been working around the clock with regards to changing and tuning policy to maximize convenience while trying to keep everyone safe. This is the fifth of the compilations of the most important, relevant policy passed by the respective levels of governance, and like before is no means exhaustive. Those who need help or are interested in particulars may reach out at any time for clarification.
Governor Baker has extended the stay-at-home advisory until May 18th, which asks that all non-essential businesses operate remotely and closes gatherings to groups over ten. To many this is frustrating news but to date Middlesex county has suffered 731 fatalities, with 13,417 positive cases – the highest in the state. We appreciate all the efforts everyone has put in on keeping distance and cooperating to keep those who are older, immuno-compromised, and in other high-risk groups safe. Governor’s Baker’s team of experts have been advising on him the situation and while new hospitalizations have flattened, they have not returned to pre-surge levels, nor has hospitalization rates for those infected decrease. This means that our healthcare network is still forced to rely on “surge” beds and is strained, increasing risk not only for those infected but also for anyone who might have a non-COVID related emergency. His advisory board on opening consists of a bipartisan array of doctors, CEO’s, professors, and city mayors and has the widest array of expertise in the nation with regards to the reopening process of any state.
All small business owners should be aware that the SBA has resumed applications for the Paycheck Protection Program as well as the Economic Disaster Impact Loans. A number of small businesses have reported issues with applying to larger institutions, specifically losing out to larger companies with larger loans. If you have encountered such a problem we have had success in working within your current lender to bring you the proper assistance to file your application, as well as seeking out other lenders in certain cases. Congressman Moulton’s office has also provided guidance and assistance to several businesses who need consultation with the federal Small Business Administration itself. If you would like help reaching beyond your local branch or considering another avenue to secure a loan and keep your business afloat please do not hesitate to reach out.
I would also like to highlight within the SBA’s response the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC). Both businesses as well as non-profits are open to receiving this credit up to $5,000 per employee. To qualify you must have a decline in gross receipts by more than 50% in a quarter compared to the same quarter in 2019 or have operations partially or fully suspended due to a quarantine order. This is NOT allowed in conjunction with the PPP program, however.
Many constituents may be waiting on legal documents and other filings to be notarized; this week Governor Baker signed legislation authorizing notary’s to work remotely. Laws governing notary services still apply, but are allowed to be conducted remotely. Your attorney of choice will advise you on what service they will use to conduct the signing, and you will still need to show documentation over the call. For those of you who are purchasing or selling homes, as well as a few other legal processes you will need to conduct such a process twice – once for the buyer and a second time for the seller. If you have questions on the process or time frame your paralegal or attorney will be able to advise you.
The next several weeks will be critical as we continue to react to the medical data regarding our outbreak here in our community, and I expect many rapid changes will occur across the local, state, and federal level. As always, I will keep you apprised of any and all changes as they occur, and if you or anyone you know needs assistance please do not hesitate to reach out. My office is fully operational, and together we will prevail as a stronger and more united community.
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