March 24 conference call answered many small-business concerns about the coronavirus
A steadfast champion of small business, Gov. Pete Ricketts took some time away from the 24-hour job of fighting the coronavirus to field some urgent questions NFIB members had for him about how state initiatives would affect their enterprises.
“I can’t create new law, but I can waive existing statutes,” the governor said. Among the questions he answered and suggestions he made were about:
- Unemployment insurance waivers. “Apply right now,” the governor suggested to those just laid off. He also reminded employers that if they could cut their employees’ time in half rather than layoff, workers could collect some of the balance in unemployment insurance benefits.
- Filing for SBA Loans
- Exploring interest-free loans from banks
- Asking landlords for a deal on rents
The governor told NFIB members to get in touch with Eric Maher, his director of communications, with any additional questions they have, 531-289-0060 or [email protected].
NFIB Nebraska State Director Bob Hallstrom, who hosted the call, thanked the governor for the executive orders he’s issued already that have helped alleviate the crisis. “I think the most popular thing I’ve done is allow bars to sell packaged liquor curbside,” said the governor, giving a brief moment of levity to the very serious call.
“Governor Ricketts has been an unwavering supporter of small business his entire time in office,” said Hallstrom. “He loves NFIB and the people it represents, coming to our Small Business Days at the Capitol and participating in our teleconference calls. He’s the right chief executive at a crucial time in our history.”
For more information on NFIB’s federal advocacy efforts, news, resources, and webinars go to www.nfib.com/coronavirus.
