As developments are rapidly unfolding with respect to COVID-19, state and local leaders across our nation announced additional measures to slow community transmission of COVID-19.
Earlier this week, Governor Larry Hogan announced the closure of bars, restaurants, fitness centers, spas, and theaters until further notice. Restaurants are restricted to carry-out, drive-thru or delivery options. Food trucks, barbershops, salons, and funeral facilities can all remain open, but cannot have gatherings of more than 50 people, according to the Governor’s executive order.
To support the business community during this crisis, the State of Maryland has launched Maryland Business Express, a portal that offers support to business owners. This includes guidelines for employers, fair labor standards, information on insurance claims, opportunities for financial assistance, tax questions, and much more.
On the national level, we know that an economic stimulus package is moving through Congress, but for now, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced that it will provide low interest disaster loans, totaling $2 million, to assist small businesses through this crisis. These loans are designed to provide vital economic support to small businesses, primarily to surmount the economic losses they will be facing in the coming months. For more information on national and local resources, please visit here and here.
Lastly, if you experience symptoms related to COVID-19, or suspect that you may be have been exposed, please call your primary care physician for an initial assessment. If your provider believes that you meet the criteria to be tested for this respiratory infection, he or she will make that determination and refer you for lab testing.
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