COVID-19 News Round-up for May 5

Policy & Stimulus News 

Updated PPP, Grant Program Under Way 

While the Small Business Administration is kicking off its second round of funding in the Paycheck Protection Program, small businesses also have another funding outlet that doesn’t need to be paid back. The Economic Injury Disaster Loans program, for small businesses with fewer than 500 employees, also received additional funding as part of the CARES Act. The additional EIDL funding is tucked inside an additional $60B approved in this new round of funding for SBA disaster loans. (Source: Phoenix Business Journal) 

Economic News 

Meritage Cutting Spending During Crisis 

As COVID-19 has put a damper on what originally was going to be a hot spring selling season for homebuilders, Meritage Homes Corp. has reduced spending and may cancel some land purchases in certain markets nationwide. (Source: Phoenix Business Journal) 

Businesses Want Liability Protection Before Reopening 

Business lobbyists and executives are pushing the Trump Administration and Congress to shield American companies from a wide range of potential lawsuits related to reopening the economy amid the coronavirus pandemic, opening a new legal and political fight over how the nation deals with the fallout from COVID-19. (Source: New York Times) 

May be Less Chaotic Than April 

As commercial landlords stare down another month of tenants possibly missing rent, the chaos has calmed slightly, and processes have been put in place to deal with rent relief. The initial onslaught of companies seeking rent relief has subsided as landlords have created procedures to evaluate tenants’ needs and to work with them on available options. (Source: Phoenix Business Journal) 

Leaders’ Thoughts on Life After Crisis 

Phoenix area business and political leaders were questioned recently to get their views on what life may be life after the crisis subsides. (Source: Phoenix Business Journal) 

Resources 

Vital Resources for Arizona Businesses During Pandemic 

The Arizona Chamber Foundation has assembled a list of resources Arizona businesses that are losing revenue due to the coronavirus can tap into to help them stay afloat during the pandemic. (Source: Chamber Business News) 

Updated City Operations Information 

On May 1st Rose Law Group published an updated list of area municipalities’ operations, accessibility and schedules. (Source: Rose Law Group Reporter) 

Construction Reopening Checklist 

Attorneys Melanie Pate and Frances Haynes of Lewis Roca Rothgerber Christie LLP have compiled a checklist for construction companies considering bringing employees back to work, as well as protecting those who are still working, during the pandemic. (Source: AZ Big Media)