Dear Booksellers, We’re getting right to the point today... Advocacy There’s hope that more relief is on the way. This week, Senate Republicans and the Trump Administration began crafting their priorities for another coronavirus relief package. While the full proposal is expected to be released early next week, the package is likely to include: Additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for certain businesses with revenues down more than 50 percent; Tax credits to incentivize businesses to hire workers; More funding for COVID-19 testing; An additional round of direct payments to individuals; Funding for schools to reopen; and Flexibility for state and local governments to spend federal relief (with no new aid).
Bipartisan negotiations are expected to begin next week once Republicans finalize their proposal. In the meantime, bipartisan recovery fund legislation, dubbed the Small Business Comeback Act (H.R. 7671), was introduced in the House by Rep. Filemon Vela (D-TX-34) and Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX-05). The Comeback Act would provide federal grants to businesses for operating expenses like rent, utilities, payroll, insurance premiums, state and local taxes, and certain debt obligations. The Act calls on the recovery fund to prioritize businesses that have experienced significant revenue loss due to COVID, businesses in a rural or low-to-moderate income community, women-owned businesses, minority-owned businesses, and small businesses. Sole proprietors and other self-employed individuals would be eligible. We’ll need your help with our advocacy efforts. Watch next week’s updates for a call to action about lobbying your lawmakers as they begin negotiations on the latest COVID-19 relief package. Action Items American Express
Let your customers know about AmEx’s promotion for small businesses. From now until September 20, cardmembers are eligible to receive up to a total of $50 in statement credits when they shop with your small business. AmEx cardholders who activate this offer by July 26 will receive $5 statement credits for every $10 they spend up to $50. (Corporate cards are not eligible.) Children’s Institute
If you missed the chance to attend Ci8 a couple of weeks ago, treat yourself! The videos (except for Rep Picks, which will be posted next week) are now posted in the Education Resources (check the box for “Children’s Institute 2020” under “Filter by conference”). All of the videos are worth watching but if you’re pressed for time and the current crisis weighs heavy on your mind, at least check out the Store Voice, Online Sales, and Profitability session for some valuable tips on amplifying your store’s voice, optimizing social media and customer communication to drive online sales, and maximizing profitability. Take Good Care
A reminder about self-care and mental health resources during COVID. |
