Restaurants and bars hoping to move up to 50% of capacity will have to participate in a self-certification process to demonstrate they will comply with measures to protect guests and their workers.

We thank Senator Corman's office for the following information.

Restaurant Industry Guidance 

PennDOT Resumes Issuance of REAL ID - Federal Enforcement Will Begin October 1, 2021

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that it has resumed issuing REAL IDs at reopened Driver License Centers offering driver license services throughout the state.  PennDOT paused REAL ID issuance throughout the state in March 2020 out of an abundance of caution and in the interest of public health, due to COVID-19. Additionally, the federal Department of Homeland Security postponed the enforcement date for REAL ID from October 1, 2020 to October 1, 2021 in response to COVID-19 and the national emergency declaration. Please note that the correct photo ID renewal fee is $31.50.    https://www.media.pa.gov/Pages/PENNDOT-Details.aspx?newsid=598

It is hard to believe that Friday marked nearly two decades since the attacks on September 11^th, 2001. This week is also the six-month anniversary of when the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic and our lives changed yet again in a way we never thought possible.

It just takes a few small steps to start your preparedness journey and there are so many resources available to help you on your way. Tips, checklists and other information for all kinds of emergencies are available on the Ready PA webpage at www.Ready.pa.gov and the FEMA webpage at www.Ready.gov. In addition, check with your state and local officials and emergency management agencies for updates and guidance on hazards in your area.

What has been instrumental in getting us through COVID-19 so far, like every other challenge we’ve faced, is the support of our friends, family, colleagues and communities. So as you work to prepare yourself, your family, your workplace and your community for emergencies let us know how we can help and if you have ideas and lessons learned that we can share with others. Let’s work together to continue to develop our resilience and preparation. 

We knew that Pennsylvania was going to play a significant role in determining the 2020 Presidential election, but a new report says the Keystone state could be the deciding factor. An article published by FiveThirtyEight (a political analysis and opinion site) earlier this week notes “Pennsylvania looks like the single most important state of the 2020 election.” The article goes on to state that there is a 31 percent chance that the Commonwealth will be the “tipping-point” state in the election – significantly increasing both Trump’s and Biden’s chances of securing an overall victory if they take Pennsylvania. You can read more about the report here. 

Ben Franklin Venture Investment Forum is hosting a free webinar, “An Introduction to Equity Investing” on October 1, 2020, at 9:30 AM. The presenter will be Jill Edwards, Executive Director of Ben Franklin Venture Investment Forum.

From the comfort and safety of your own office, you will learn how equity investing really works and how investors view the process. Register now for this valuable webinar!

On October 13-15, 2020, in partnership with Chase for Business, CO— by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce will connect business owners like you with the tools you need to navigate a business world that's been forever changed. Register now to reserve your spot to this complimentary virtual event. Share you successes and challenges with your peers and gain the skills and perspective you need to come out on the other side stronger than ever.

The Direct Care Worker Training Grants program helps create and develop training programs that increase the quality of services, offer specialty certifications, and create viable career opportunities for personal care assistants, home health aides and certified nursing assistants. The deadline to apply is October 2.

Can't make this Webinar? Don't worry! Register Now and we'll email you an on-demand version!

As Pennsylvania businesses begin to reopen, each business owner will need to examine their operations and make changes to meet public safety guidelines. PASBDC has created signage to address common health concerns. All images are completely free to use, so please share, download, print and distribute as you wish!

Eligible employers must complete a short application and submit a video detailing how they could benefit from the funding. The funds do not need to be repaid. However, business owners who are able may choose to "pay it forward" by paying the proceeds back to the Fund to be used by other small businesses.

Additional questions about the PA 30 Day Fund can be directed by Maia Comeau at [email protected].

The IRS recently issued Publication 5419, New Employer Tax Credits (PDF) to help employers understand the tax credits available to them due to the coronavirus pandemic. The one-page document breaks down the details of the Employer Retention Credit and the credits for paid sick and family leave in easy-to-follow charts. Using the document, employers can quickly determine whether they are eligible for the credits, the amount of the credits and which wages apply to the credits.

All businesses must follow CDC and DOH guidance for social distancing and cleaning

Order of the Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Health Directing Public Health Safety Measures for Businesses Permitted to Maintain In-Person Operation FAQs

Click here for access to timely resources.

Following the Governor's guidance, staff is once again working remotely and only going to the office as necessary. If you need to reach us, please call 814-643-1110 and leave a message for us or email [email protected] or [email protected]