Coronavirus Government Response Update—Trump, Congress Near Deal on Small Business Aid

Welcome to the Coronavirus Government Response Update. This information is intended to keep ISSA members up to date on fast-moving government affairs related to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as other public policy issues important to the cleaning industry. Today’s update touches on the Trump administration and U.S. Congress nearing a deal on small business aid, ISSA calling for immediate funding of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), CISA release of updated essential workers guidance, and more.

Trump, Congress Near Deal on Small Business, Hospital Aid
The Trump administration and Congress expect an imminent agreement on an aid package of up to US$450 billion to boost a small business loan program that has run out of money and add funds for hospitals and COVID-19 testing. As talks continued, U.S. President Donald Trump said there’s a “good chance” of reaching a bipartisan agreement with Democrats.

Act Now: ISSA Calls for Immediate Funding of Paycheck Protection Program Funding for the PPP, which was made available to cleaning-related businesses as a result of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, has officially run out, which adds to the uncertainty cleaning industry professionals are facing at this time. Urge Congress to quickly pass additional funding for the PPP so cleaning-related and other small businesses can continue operating during these uncertain times.

CISA Releases Version 3.0 of Guidance on Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released version 3.0 of the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers guidance to help state and local jurisdictions and the private sector identify and manage their essential workforce while responding to COVID-19. CISA’s original guidance was released on March 19, 2020, and version 2.0 was subsequently released on March 28, 2020. 

Other links of interest

• Take Action Now–Urge Your Federal Elected Officials to Support the Clean Start: Back to Work Tax Credit
• ISSA Webinar Recording: How U.S. Governments Are Responding to COVID-19 Update
• ISSA Coronavirus Government Response FAQ
• EPA Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• How the Treasury Department Is Taking Action