The Daily Edition for Thursday, April 16, 2020

To view this Daily Impact online, click here.

 

 

Welcome to your Daily Impact newsletter!
As a valued member of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, we plan to stay in touch with you every afternoon, through emails like this one and on Facebook and Twitter, until the pandemic passes. We intend to provide you with the latest state and federal information, as well as highlighting the creativity and innovation that is occuring here in Maine during this unpredictable and rapidly changing time. To assist you in navigating the uncertainties ahead, we have created a diverse and comprehensive collection of web-based resources to help you take care of yourself and your family, your employees, your business, and your community.
Do you have a question? ASK THE EXPERTS.	We are here to help in any way we can!

 

 

Maine State Chamber Of Commerce President Dana Connors Shared the Following Comments on Paycheck Protection Program Funding and the Appointment of Senators Collins and King to the President's Task Force on Reopening the Economy

First, it is important to recognize and appreciate all of the work at the state and federal levels, and through public and private sector partnerships, that has gone into mitigating the impact of COVID-19 on economies, businesses, workers, families and communities across the country. That includes the Herculean efforts of Maine's lending institutions to institute new processes in mere days so Maine businesses can apply for and access federal rescue loans.   Maine's chamber of commerce community is working closely with Governor Janet Mills and Maine's congressional delegation and we commend each of them for their outstanding leadership and tireless efforts to help all Maine people get through this crisis. Maine's chambers especially appreciate their work to make sure Maine's small businesses get the help they need.   To date, more than $2 billion in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans have been approved for more than 14,000 small Maine employers. In a small business state like Maine, this program is a lifeline that is helping businesses and their employees bridge the gap the pandemic is causing.   With today's announcement that the initial appropriated funds for the PPP have reached their limit, we strongly urge the U.S. Congress to swiftly approve a minimum infusion of $250 billion in the program. It is critical that our nation's leaders continue to work together to keep this program funded so more Maine small businesses can access critical aid. The well-being of Maine's economy, businesses, and workforce depends on it.   Now that our nation is looking ahead toward reopening the economy, we are proud that both of Maine's U.S. Senators, Susan Collins and Angus King, have been appointed to serve on the president's task force to shape a reopening plan. Their selection is not surprising based on their experience, expertise, and the work they have done on behalf of Maine businesses over many years. They have been strong supporters of Maine's business community in Washington, and their leadership on safely reopening the economy so Maine and the nation can get back to business will be invaluable.

 

Paycheck Protection Program Hits Limit as Loans Exceed $2 Billion for 14,154 Maine Small Employers

U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced yesterday that $2.1 billion in forgivable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans have been approved for 14,154 small employers in Maine. Nearly 100 different Maine lending institutions are currently participating in the program and working around the clock to disburse this funding as quickly as possible.   "Across Maine, more than $2 billion in forgivable Paycheck Protection Programs loans are providing crucial support to thousands of small businesses and an estimated 180,000 employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nationally, more than one million small employers have been approved," said Senator Collins. "The extremely high demand for these loans underscores the need for Congress to provide additional funding swiftly to ensure this program can continue to prevent small businesses from closing their doors and laying off employees. I urge my colleagues to deliver this urgently needed funding for both the PPP and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (EIDL)."   Also yesterday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin and U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Jovita Carranza issued the following statement regarding the PPP and EIDL program: "The SBA has processed more than 14 years' worth of loans in less than 14 days. The Paycheck Protection Program is saving millions of jobs and helping America's small businesses make it through this challenging time. The EIDL program is also providing much-needed relief to people and businesses. By law, the SBA will not be able to issue new loan approvals once the programs experience a lapse in appropriations. We urge Congress to appropriate additional funds for the Paycheck Protection Program - a critical and overwhelmingly bipartisan program - at which point we will once again be able to process loan applications, issue loan numbers, and protect millions more paychecks. The high demand we have seen underscores the need for hardworking Americans to have access to relief as soon as possible. We want every eligible small business to participate and get the resources they need.   On Thursday morning, the Portland Press Herald reported that, a new lending program for small businesses maxed out and stopped accepting claims, but a bitterly divided Congress looked unlikely to address that growing problem as the nation plunged into unemployment levels not seen since the Great Depression. Republicans and Democrats say more action is needed to build on the massive $2 trillion economic rescue law passed just three weeks ago, but they can't agree on what to do. The economy continues to weaken but lawmakers are scattered all over the country advancing conflicting proposals and bickering.   The $350 billion Paycheck Protection Program was a central piece of the coronavirus rescue law. Overwhelmed by demand from the moment it launched April 3, the program has now essentially run dry as small businesses around the nation beg for relief. The program is aimed at helping businesses with under 500 workers and keeping people employed by extending loans that are forgivable if businesses keep workers on payroll. The Small Business Administration reported Thursday morning that more than 1,637,000 loan applications valued at "over $339 billion" had been approved.   The government has not released data showing how much of that cash has been actually disbursed and given to the small businesses, however. Anecdotal reports from lenders and small business owners suggest only a small portion of it has been released so far, with many banks overwhelmed with applications. And it's also unclear how many firms have secured new loans, though it appears to be just a fraction of the 30 million small businesses in the United States.

 

Collins, King on Presidential Task Force to Reopen Economy

Maine's U.S. Senators are among a bipartisan group of 22 senators who will help shape a plan   Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King were appointed to serve on a task force focused on charting a safe path to re-opening the American economy by President Donald Trump. The bipartisan, bicameral committee will work to determine the best possible plan to re-open the American economy in a way that supports long-term public health and spurs much-needed economic activity.   In his statement, Senator King emphasizes that he will push the committee to put health outcomes first and make sure that the federal government is making data-driven decisions:   "Everyone - and I mean everyone - wants the country to reopen; seeing the shuttered businesses in towns throughout Maine and across the country is hard, as lives and livelihoods are being forever changed. But the other option is the danger of opening too soon and risking a rebound of the virus."   "We need to be able to answer two questions: do we know everything we need to know about this virus, and do we have the infrastructure, equipment, and leadership needed to keep it controlled? Until we can unequivocally answer 'Yes' to both of these questions, I believe we act at our own peril, and risk the unkind judgment of history. If we rush the process and we see a second spike in cases, it will be a catastrophic mistake, and we will all pay the price."   Other Senators serving on this newly-formed committee include Tom Carper (D-Del.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Pat Toomey (R-Penn.), Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.), John Cornyn (R-Tex.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).

 

To reserve your banner ad in the Daily Impact, please contact Melody Rousseau by emailing [email protected], or by calling (207) 623-4568, ext. 102.

 

Governor Mills Unveils Actions to Protect Housing for Maine People Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

Governor Janet Mills took significant steps today to keep Maine people in their homes and Maine businesses in their storefronts as COVID-19 continues to create financial hardships across the state.   The Governor signed an Executive Order that, when taken in combination with a March 18 order issued by the Maine Court System, will prevent the immediate eviction of tenants other than those who engage in dangerous or unlawful conduct for the duration of the state of emergency. The Governor also strengthened the penalties for landlords who may try to evict tenants by unlawful means, and she extended the timeframe for the eviction process in the event that the Courts reopen before the Governor's state of emergency is terminated.   Additionally, the Governor, in partnership with MaineHousing, announced a new rental assistance relief program for Maine people who cannot pay their rent due to COVID-19. The $5 million COVID-19 Rent Relief Program will allow households that meet certain income and ability to pay requirements to receive a one-time, up to $500 payment in rental assistance to be paid directly to their landlord.   Also, in letters sent to Maine financial institutions, the Governor also urged all financial institutions to work proactively with Maine homeowners and small businesses experiencing financial hardship from COVID-19 to help keep them in their homes and storefronts.   "We are in the midst of one of the greatest health crises of our lifetimes. Both public health as well as our shared sense of humanity decency demand that people not be forced from their homes and or businesses from their storefronts," said Governor Mills.   "It is my hope that these actions will provide a sense of relief, both financial and emotional, to Maine people struggling to make ends meet and that they will mitigate the spread of the virus by keeping Maine people healthy at home."

 

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Launches Fund with Vistaprint to Support Small Business Recovery in Economically Vulnerable Communities

The Save Small Business Fund is a business-led program to provide supplemental grants to the small business community suffering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic

On April 15, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, with founding partner Vistaprint, has launched the Save Small Business Fund, a grant program to provide assistance to small business owners impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Funded by contributions from corporate and philanthropic partners, the Foundation will distribute $5,000 grants to small employers in economically vulnerable communities in the United States and its territories.   "Small business owners are facing unprecedented challenges. The needs are urgent and every dollar counts," said Carolyn Cawley, president of the U.S. Chamber Foundation. "While the demand is great, we're proud to be able to contribute to the many efforts underway to help small employers get through the next days and weeks and on the road to recovery for their communities."   The Save Small Business Fund is part of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Save Small Business Initiative - a nationwide program to address small businesses' immediate needs, mitigate closures and job losses, and mobilize support for long-term recovery. The Foundation is launching the fund with support from founding partner, Vistaprint, and additional donations from supporting partners, Merck, S&P Global Foundation, and Travelers.   "Small businesses are the soul of every community, and right now our communities are facing hardship," says Vistaprint CEO Robert Keane. "I started Vistaprint out of my apartment 25 years ago and I know firsthand how hard it is for small business owners. I have been - and continue to be - amazed by their passion, resilience and ability to persevere through change. As a champion and marketing partner for small businesses, Vistaprint is there when the challenges hit, and we are doing all we can to help them stay in business. We are proud to be partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to provide a lifeline during this time."   Grant applications open on April 20, 2020. To qualify, applicants must employ between three and 20 people, be located in an economically vulnerable community, and have been harmed financially by the COVID-19 pandemic. Grants will be awarded weekly on a rapid and rolling basis until all funds have been disbursed.

 

Maine Unemployment Claims Fall, But Another Surge Expected

About 13,400 Mainers successfully filed for unemployment last week, less than half the week before, but an upcoming eligibility expansion is likely to send claims higher.

The Portland Press Herald reported today that unemployment claims dropped to just over 13,400 last week, the lowest weekly total since an economic crisis was triggered by the coronavirus pandemic last month. But another spike in claims is expected when Maine's unemployment office receives federal guidelines and can then expand eligibility to include contractors and the self-employed. About 89,500 Mainers have successfully filed for unemployment benefits since the week ending March 15, more than double initial claims for all of 2019, according to the Maine Department of Labor. About 13 percent of Maine workers have claimed benefits in the past month.   Nationwide, about 5.2 million Americans successfully filed for unemployment last week, roughly one million fewer than the previous week. Last week's claims bring the total number of American workers collecting unemployment benefits to roughly 22 million. The actual number of people out of work is likely much higher, since some workers who do not pay taxes on unemployment benefits are currently ineligible to receive benefits, such as contractors and the self-employed.   The economic crisis hit public-facing businesses such as restaurants, hotels and bars earliest and hardest. Ripples of the pandemic are being felt across nearly all sectors, however. On Wednesday, payment-processing technology firm Wex Inc. of Portland announced a 5 percent staff reduction nationwide. The company laid off or furloughed 135 workers in Maine.   The Maine Department of Labor struggled early on to manage the volume of claims, creating long wait times for claimants and frustration with its online filing platform. The department has since implemented an alphabetical call-in schedule scheduled daily by the first letter of each applicant's last name and extended call-in hours to 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.   Maine, like many other states, has yet to implement changes to unemployment benefits created by the CARES Act passed last month. A $600 increase to weekly benefits will be available next week, according to the state labor department. It is still unclear when an eligibility expansion intended to benefit self-employed and contract workers and those who have exhausted their benefits will be in place.

 

Maine Bank Makes Donation to Help Students Learn Remotely

25,000 Maine Students Are at Risk of Falling Behind Due to Lack of Internet Access

The Bangor Savings Bank Foundation is giving a $50,000 grant to Connect Kids Now, a new initiative from the Maine Department of Education aimed at helping make sure students are connected to the internet. A needs report based on information from school officials shows that more than 25,000 Maine student are at risk of falling behind academically because their homes don't have internet access that would enable them to take part in the remote learning made necessary during the COVID-19 crisis.   "The digital divide Maine students are dealing with is a serious issue and the impacts are made more pronounced by the COVID-19 pandemic. It's important that we help any way we can," said President and CEO of Bangor Savings Bank Bob Montgomery-Rice. "Supporting the continued academic success of our students right now means we're also supporting a bridge to their future and the future of our communities."   The grant from the foundation could be used in one of three ways: * Cover the cost of connectivity at home for 500 students through end of school year. * Provide devices with hotspots and cover connectivity costs for 500 students. * Help purchase 500 devices to distribute to students.   The Foundation also announced a $5,000 donation directly to the Bangor School Department, supporting similar internet and device needs for students in the Bangor School system.   "During the past month of remote learning, our teachers and families have been doing everything they can to make sure students don't fall behind, but when there is a technological gap, students are missing a basic provision for their learning," said Maine Department of Education Commissioner Pender Makin. "Without access to the internet, the unfortunate reality is some students are at a disadvantage, without access to the online learning platforms of their peers."

 

FAME Approves Financing For Medical Device Firm

Saco-based Maine Molecular Quality Controls, Inc. is growing and helping to battle the COVID-19 pandemic   At its remotely-held meeting today, the board of directors of the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) approved 90% pro rata loan insurance on a $2.2 million loan by Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution to Saco-based Maine Molecular Quality Controls, Inc.   The FAME funds will be used to refinance an existing mortgage and enable the construction of a 37,500 square-foot expansion to their existing building, which will allow the growing company to create and retain a total of forty-six Maine jobs. The approval fits squarely within FAME's mission of helping a growing business in the biotechnology sector that will create additional good-paying jobs.   Maine Molecular Quality Controls, Inc., established in 2000, is a medical device company based in Saco that designs and markets molecular controls for use in testing for inherited diseases, infectious diseases, as well as for oncology and pharmacogenetics. Among other things, the company manufactures quality controls that are currently being used in battling the COVID-19 pandemic. The company is expanding its facilities to meet the growing demand for its products, high-caliber controls uniquely suited to monitor all phases of molecular testing, which provide confidence in laboratory test results.   FAME's Commercial Loan Insurance Program insures a portion of a loan to a business made by a participating financial institution or investment firm. For a business, it may mean the difference between obtaining a loan or never getting the opportunity to start a business.   "We are pleased to help with the continued growth of this remarkable Maine company," stated Jay Violette, Chair of the FAME Board of Directors. "In these challenging times, we realize more than ever how important the field of medical research and testing is to the health and well-being of not only our state, but of our country and world as a whole."   "Maine Molecular Quality Controls, Inc. is grateful for the support of FAME. This financing will enable our company to meet the current and future demand for high-caliber quality controls to ensure the accuracy of clinical laboratory testing," stated Joan Gordon, MT (ASCP), President.

 

Maine Tourism Relief Fund seeks to provide relief to small businesses and their employees

The Maine Tourism Relief Fund was created by the Maine Tourism Association and Poland Spring to provide relief to small businesses and their employees experiencing great hardship as a result of business closures in the state due to COVID-19.   Through this fund, grants will be made to small businesses based in the state of Maine who work in tourism-related industries for companies with less than 50 people who have been impacted by coronavirus. It also helps their employees who have experienced a decrease in wages or loss of employment. Grants will be awarded as quickly as possible to those who meet eligibility criteria, as reviewed and verified by the Maine Tourism Association.   An update on April 15 stated that, Maine Tourism is committed to taking this program live as quickly as possible; however, due to the generosity of donors, this program has grown beyond its original scope and is taking longer to establish than originally planned. If you are interested in submitting an application, please send an email to [email protected] to receive an application when the process goes live.

 

Use the Maine State Chamber's blog and Daily Impact to tell your story!

Numerous Maine companies stepping up or pivoting nimbly, as Maine people resourcefully address the challenges of this pandemic. Share your perspective and experience with us and with the rest of the business community. How are you facing and overcoming the challenges posed by this pandemic? What are you and your employees doing in this dramatically different economy? Tell us about the innovations your company or employees are making or ways you have adapted your company to meet your customers' needs.   Each blog entry should be 300 to 500 words. Join us in creating a written history of the business community's resilience and innovation during this extraordinary time. Please submit your entries to [email protected]. For more information or questions, please contact Mark Ellis by emailing [email protected] or by calling (207) 623-4568, ext. 109.

Check out the first post on our "Meeting the Challenge" blog! Todd Mason, President and CEO of the Maine Credit Union League, discusses "Remaining Essential During COVID-19 and Beyond"

 

AGC Maine CEO Matt Marks on The Bottom Line Podcast

Matt Marks, CEO of the Associated General Contractors Maine, was this week's special guest on The Bottom Line podcast. He joined The Bottom Line co-hosts Dana Connors of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce and John Williams of Williams Broadcasting to discuss the economic impact of COVID-19 on Maine's construction industry. If you missed the show this morning, you can still tune in from our list of archived shows.

 

Friday, April 17 | U.S. Chamber Hosts Fourth Virtual National Small Business Town Hall
Register for the fourth in a series of National Small Business Town Halls, at 12:00 p.m. Eastern, Friday, April 17, to get the information you need about federal relief for small business owners. Inc., in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is on a mission to help business owners get the information necessary to navigate important government programs and to keep their businesses running during this unprecedented time.   Join us for a virtual National Small Business Town Hall on Friday, April 17, at noon Eastern time. Inc. editor-at-large Kimberly Weisul and Neil Bradley, the executive vice president and chief policy officer at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, will discuss all manner of new developments related to the programs, and take your most urgent questions along with a panel of experts.   See recordings of the previous webinars from our third National Small Business Town Hall series here:
*​ March 27, 2020	*​ April 3, 2020	* April 10, 2020

 

Maine State Chamber Presents Free Wednesday Webinar Series
SERIES SPONSORS: Bangor Savings Bank, Central Maine Power Company and Maine Department of Economic and Community Development   Additional webinars will be forthcoming, and sponsorship opportunities are available. Questions can be directed to Angela S. Arno, director of programs and events for the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, by emailing [email protected] or calling (207) 623-4568, ext. 104.
	Wednesday, April 22 | Starting at 11:00 a.m. THE INTERSECTION OF WORKERS' COMP AND COVID-19   The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on employers, their employees, and our state and national economies has been remarkable. Across the state, businesses large and small are struggling with how to adjust to this new and dramatically different paradigm. Like many other groups, the Maine State Chamber has worked to bring our members and employers all around the state the latest and most accurate information on changes to our unemployment insurance system, paid sick leave, paid FMLA leave, the CARES Act, and the accompanying Paycheck Protection Program and EIDL assistance.   However, forgotten up to this point is how another important aspect of the cost of doing business may be impacted by the pandemic - workers' compensation insurance. Like so many other business factors, there are a significant number of unknowns surrounding workers' comp going forward, including the compensability of COVID-19-related claims, claims that may arise while employees are working remotely from their homes, and how a shrinking statewide payroll may impact premium rates, and therefore, overall premium costs.   Register here Sponsored by MEMIC, MaineHealth / Synernet, Preti Flaherty, and United Insurance
	Wednesday, April 29 | Starting at 11:00 a.m. WEBINAR FOR SOLE PROPRIETOR BUSINESSES: NAVIGATING THE COVID19 PANDEMIC   This webinar will focus on the short- and long-term issues arising from the pandemic for sole proprietors - with suggested solutions. Topics covered will include a review of up-to-date federal and state legislative opportunities, tax issues to discuss with your accountant, insurance liability, health insurance options, credit protection, and steps for sole proprietors to take with customers. There will also be a brief review of pertinent estate planning options during the pandemic.   Regiser here | Sponsored by Lambert Coffin
	Wed., May 6 | Starting at 11:00 a.m. WE ARE STILL FINALIZING THIS WEBINAR TOPIC TO BE ANNOUNCED
	Wednesday, May 13 | Starting at 11:00 a.m. RECENT STATE AND FEDERAL TAX CHANGES AND HOW THEY AFFECT YOUR BUSINESS   This webinar will focus on federal tax changes contained in the CARES Act and changes made at the state level that provide support for businesses during this pandemic. Additional topics also include a look at the ever-changing landscape at the federal level for additional stimulus funds and what those changes might look like.   Register here | Sponsored by Pierce Atwood and WIPFLi, LLP
	NAVIGATING THE LEGAL AND FINANCIAL ISSUES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: PRESENTED EXCLUSIVELY FOR MAINE'S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY   Presented on Wednesday, April 15 | Listen to the recording here   The Maine State Chamber thanks today's webinar presenters and sponsors: Rudman & Winchell; TD Bank; and, Albin, Randall and Bennett.

 

Tuesday, April 28 | Legislative Strictly Social Virtual Coffee Hour
The Maine State Chamber of Commerce and the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce invite you to attend our Legislative Strictly Social Virtual Coffee Hour. We invite you to grab a cup of coffee at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 28, and hear from legislators about current issues.   Normally, our annual series of statewide receptions is an ideal way for you, the Maine business leader, to interact with business associates, new and prospective Maine State Chamber members, and state representatives in a relaxed setting. This year, due to the COVID-19 situation, we will be hosting this event online as a coffee hour. We will have a panel of Maine Legislators open the hour and there will be an opportunity for questions through the Zoom chat feature. Please join us for this presentation. A participation link will be sent to you after you have completed registration. Learn more or register here.
Thank You To Our Generous Sponsors! A special thank you to our sponsors from the Legislative Strictly Social, which has now become the Legislative Strictly Social Coffee Hour, due to the need for social distancing during this pandemic. Your continued support is greatly appreciated!
SERIES SPONSORS: Casella Waste Systems, Inc.; Central Maine Power Company; Maine Department of Economic & Community Development; Northeast Delta Dental; VHB
PREMIER SPONSOR: AT&T	SPOTLIGHT SPONSORS: Backyard Farms, LLC; Brookfield Renewable Energy
PRESENTING SPONSORS: Altria Client Services LLC; American Chemistry Council; Bank of America; Dead River Company; Emera Maine; Finance Authority of Maine; Hannaford Supermarkets; MaineHealth; Merrill's Investigations & Security; Mitchell Tardy Jackson Government Affairs; PhRMA; Preti Flaherty, LLP; Spectrum Healthcare Partners; The Sheridan Corporation; Unitil Corp.	OFFICIAL SPONSORS: Bangor Savings Bank; Charter Communications; Cross Insurance; E.A. Scribner Insurance Agency, Inc.; Elanco; Enterprise Holdings; IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.; Maine Better Transportation Association; MEMIC; Maine Primary Care Association
Sponsorship opportunities are still available for this event. Questions can be directed to Angela S. Arno, director of programs and events for the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, by emailing [email protected] or calling (207) 623-4568, ext. 104.

 

 

To join these advertisers in the Daily Impact, please contact Melody Rousseau by emailing [email protected], or by calling (207) 623-4568, ext. 102.

 

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