Essential News for Tennessee's Business Community
NEW TODAY: TENNESSEE Chamber Included in Prominent Group; Governor Lee officially names economic recovery group to "reboot economy"
Tennessee Chamber Critical Update: Save Small Business Initiative Launched By U.S. Chamber: Financial Assistance Offered and Targeted Resources to Save Small Business

The U.S. Chamber unveiled its Save Small Business Initiative to address the immediate needs of the small business community, mitigate closures and job losses, and mobilize support for long-term recovery in the wake of the economic destruction of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to a call to action for the larger business community and government to help small businesses, the four-part campaign includes  supplemental financial assistance , advocacy, resources , webinars and guides, and research.

The U.S. Chamber Foundation is supporting the supplemental financial assistance by launching their Save Small Business Fund . Funded by contributions from corporate and philanthropic partners, the U.S. Chamber Foundation will be providing $5,000 supplemental grants to small employers in economically vulnerable communities.

Applications for the Save Small Business Grant Fund will open this Monday, April 20, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. ET.  There are several eligibility requirements which can be found here . We encourage you to share this information with your members so they can apply for a supplemental grant if they are eligible. Chambers of Commerce may also apply if they meet the eligibility requirements.

For more information on the Save Small Business Grant Fund including qualifications, the application process and FAQs, please  click here .
Governor Lee, Helping Essential Business Operations, Issues Clarifying Letter to Local Governments and Law Enforcement  

In a move to clarify essential business operations to local officials and law enforcement, Governor Bill Lee issued the letter clarifying and providing guidance regarding executive Order 23 and essential business operations. EO 23, released on April 2 established a statewide stay at home order, but at the urging of the Tennessee Chamber exempted essential and crucial business operations consistent with U.S Department of Homeland Security CISA guidance click to view .

A number of Tennessee Chamber member companies have noted that local law enforcement have questioned either their or employees essential operating status. The Tennessee Chamber is appreciative of this letter by Governor Lee to provide further clarification as we have been in constant communication to Governor Lee's who understands and believes in the importance of consistent and established guidance consistent with U.S. DHS CISA guidelines. if you or your business are having concerns about this issue please feel free to contact the Tennessee Chamber. 
Video Recap: Deep Dive on COVID-19 Lending Options
Business Interruption Insurance Coverage COVID - 19 - TN Department of Commerce and Insurance Issues FAQ for Businesses

Commissioner Hodgen Mainda with the Department of Commerce and Insurance recently released a FAQ for businesses who have questions regarding business interruption Coverage policies during the COVID-19 crisis. Tennessee Chamber has noted a number of businesses and local chambers have inquired about this issue. Please see the attached document released by TN DCI that provides resources and information about this crucial issue. 
Tennessee Community Corner
Johnson & Johnson is aiming to produce between 600 million and 900 million doses of its potential coronavirus vaccine by the end of the first quarter of 2021 if human trials scheduled to begin in September go as planned. It plans to make 1 billion doses or more annually, J&J executives told investors during a post-earnings conference call on Tuesday.
Disclaimer: The Tennessee Chamber seeks to provide access to recommendations, regulations, services and expertise to its members. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this mission remains constant. Prior to acting, members should consult their own professional advisors for information and counsel specific to the individual and unique situations faced by organizations, individuals and corporations. The opinions, interpretations and recommendations of the Tennessee Chamber are informational only and should not be relied upon by the recipient as legal or professional advice. The Tennessee Chamber makes no representations as to the accuracy or reliability of the content contained herein. Users of this information accept any and all risks associated with the use of such information and agree that the Tennessee Chamber has no liability to user.