The Daily Briefing | March 21, 2020 | Issue 002
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION:
VACCINES FOR COVID-19

The World Health Organization announced it is working with a global team of scientists to develop a vaccine to coronavirus. Some vaccines are already in clinical trials, though officials caution bringing a vaccine to the market could take up to 18 months.


UPDATES
FEDERAL

Senate continues to debate the Stimulus Package , which includes direct cash payments to individuals and loans and loan guarantees for business. Democrats argue the proposal doesn't include enough funding for employees and gives too much to businesses. While initially scheduled to pass last night, deadline moved to Monday.

Federal tax deadline was extended to July 15th , allowing a three-month extension for U.S. taxpayers and businesses. No updates are available at this time regarding state filings.

Trump evokes the Defense Protection Act to support supply chain for critical items for the medical industry. The White House has taken measures to implement DPA to increase production of critical materials during this time of crisis.

Over 75 million Americans under virtual lockdown . Several states issue orders for citizens to stay home, including Pennsylvania, Illinois, New York, and California. New York and Pennsylvania included a suspension of all non-essential business activity.

On March 18th, President trump signed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act into law, which included a number of key measures including an increase in unemployment benefits, expanded paid sick and family leave, and payroll tax credits for employers.

The U.S. Chamber weighs in on Senate coronavirus package, bridge loans, and more.
STATE

Governor Wolf orders non-life-sustaining businesses to close, with enforcement beginning Monday, March 23rd, 8am. The most updated list of businesses is available online . Businesses are asked to call (866) 466-3972 or email [email protected] if they are unclear on their business's status.

Secretary Levine and Governor Wolf addressed the order to close all non-life-sustaining businesses and provided updated guidance for compliance. The PA Chamber, Philadelphia Chamber, and Pittsburgh Chamber respond in support of the Governor's action.

A Philadelphia City Commissioner calls for delaying the Pennsylvania Primary (April 28th) to sometime in late May or June. The Commissioner believes the Governor should form a working group of county election officials to determine the best course.

Small Business Administration (SBA) accepts Pennsylvania application and designates state to receive economic injury disaster loans to small businesses and nonprofits facing losses related to COVID-19.

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development's full resource page is live with the latest information for Pennsylvania businesses.
LOCAL

Erie County
Philanthropic leaders launch a COVID-19 Rapid Response Fund using the Erie Gives web platform. Donations can be made through March 31st and will used towards critical needs in response to coronavirus relief in Erie County. Pro-rated matches are made possible by The Erie Community Foundation, Erie Insurance, United Way of Erie County, Hamot Health Foundation, and Highmark/Allegheny Health Network.

State and Local Police as well as Erie County agencies are prepared to enforce business ban in Erie County. The Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement - which began the process immediately under the Governor's order - have already made over 1,800 compliance checks statewide; 90% were in compliance.

Corry declares a state of emergency, reducing city services and enforcing the state's order to close businesses that are non-essential.

County Executive Declares Disaster Emergency  and reiterates shutdown of non-essential businesses in Erie County. Erie County Executive and County Council work with ECGRA to  appropriate $300k in relief funds  for the Health Department, nonprofits, and business.

ECGRA also announced additional funding for COVID-19 related needs. The details of their COVID-19 Response Fund are available online .

City of Erie
Mayor Schember affirms County and State declarations and makes necessary accommodations for city staff. All emergency services will continue and residents are encouraged to check the city website regularly for updates. Read the full statement .

Reminder: The City's Department of Economic and Community Development also extended interest-free 60-day payment holiday on all current City of Erie loans effective March 31st. All payments due in April are suspended to June and will resume on normal due date at that time.

Municipal Resources
Available resources for municipalities include the following:

ERIE COUNTY BUSINESS RESOURCE GUIDE
We are here to help.
During this time of uncertainty, focus on what matters most - your business and the well-being of employees, friends and family. The Erie Regional Chamber will continue updating this business resource guide to eliminate time wasted on tracking down the latest information and updates.
ERIE REGIONAL CHAMBER | www.eriepa.com