During a U.S. House Small Business Committee hearing Tuesday, Rep. Sharice Davids, D-3rd Dist., examined the effect of the coronavirus-19 on Kansas’ small businesses and discussed additional measures Congress could take to offset economic hardship for workers and businesses.
This hearing comes in the wake of Congress’ $8.3 billion emergency funding package, which enables the Small Business Administration to make an estimated $7 billion in low-interest loans to affected small businesses.
“For small businesses in Kansas and across the country, the coronavirus has the potential to cause devastating financial hardship that would have a ripple effect throughout our economy. These businesses make up the backbone of our communities, and we have to ensure they are properly supported and protected,” Rep. Davids said.
Rep. Davids shared a story of a small business owner in Overland Park who is worried about how decreased sales could jeopardize her businesses’ future – leaving her unable to cover rent, pay her bills or get groceries.
“Preventative measures to help contain and mitigate the coronavirus are essential for public health and safety, and have to remain our priority. But we cannot overlook the possible impact of this epidemic on our economy and small businesses, which are so vital to Kansas’ Third District,” Rep. Davids said.
To watch Davids’ remarks during the hearing, visit https://www.dropbox.com/s/7jw3alo2h870l7e/Davids%20COVID%20question.mp4?dl=0.