09/ 23/ 2005
The devastation that Hurricane Katrina brought to the Gulf Coast has affected businesses across the country. As small-business owners in the Gulf Coast region are getting back on their feet and NFIB members nationwide are helping with relief efforts, the federal government is helping to connect business owners nationwide with the resources they need to succeed during these hard times. Here are some of the ways the federal government is helping small businesses in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina:
Resources:Small Business Administration: The U.S. Small Business Administration has a wealth of information regarding disaster recovery assistance from Hurricane Katrina for small businesses in the affected areas. Find lists of disaster recovery centers in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas, as well as information and forms for SBA disaster loan assistance.
Department of Labor: The Department of Labor offers immediate income assistance to workers displaced by Hurricane Katrina. It offers unemployment insurance assistance to the newly unemployed, as well as disaster unemployment assistance to self-employed or newly employed workers who would otherwise not be eligible for unemployment insurance.
Katrina Recovery Job Connection: The Department of Labor has created the Katrina Recovery Job Connection, connecting workers needing jobs with employers who want to hire them. Individuals looking for work, either in areas impacted by the hurricane or in new locations, can connect with employers for permanent jobs, temporary jobs or hurricane cleanup- or recovery-related jobs. Job opportunities are searchable by zip code, industry or keyword. For employers, resume searches can be automated to help you find potential employees.
OSHA: If you or your workers are involved in the hurricane recovery or clean-up efforts, the OSHA Web site provides a variety of resources on keeping safe and avoiding disaster recovery hazards. Learn how to properly handle asbestos, work with chain saws and downed electrical wires, avoid heat stress, protect yourself against molds and fungi, and more.
Rule Changes:
Waiver of I-9 Sanctions: Effective Sept. 6, employers who hire Hurricane Katrina victims who cannot provide documentation required under Section 274A of the Immigration and Nationality Act will not be sanctioned. This rule change is temporary and will be reviewed in October. A list of other government waivers that may apply to your business can be found at the Department of Homeland Security Web site.
