Rep. Perlmutter: Neguse, Crow & Colorado Delegation Urge Swift SBA Disaster Declaration for Colorado

WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Rep. Ed Perlmutter, D-Colorado, issued the following news release:

Congressman Joe Neguse and Congressman Jason Crow, along with the full Colorado delegation, urged the Trump Administration to quickly grant Governor Polis' request for a disaster declaration for the State of Colorado to assist with the disruption to businesses as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The designation will help small business owners successfully apply for low-interest federal loans and unlock other Small Business Administration (SBA) tools and assistance designed to assist small businesses that are suffering a substantial economic injury as a result of the pandemic.

"Many businesses across Colorado are experiencing substantial losses and business disruption as a result of the national response to the recent outbreak and spread of COVID-19," said Congressman Joe Neguse. "All sectors of the economy are feeling the effects of this pandemic and every available incentive to help businesses and the workers they employ through this uncertain time is critical."

"The coronavirus is taking a toll on Colorado's vibrant small businesses. With over 1.1 million Coloradans employed by small businesses, we must do everything we can to help Colorado's workforce and quickly approve Colorado's request for a disaster declaration," said Congressman Jason Crow. "The Administration granting Colorado's request would open the door for businesses and nonprofits across the state to access those funds and provide small businesses much needed relief."

The delegation is working in close coordination with Governor Polis and his administration to ensure SBA help is available for shops, restaurants, bars, and small businesses across the state. The Governor will file a formal request for the SBA economic disaster declaration. The SBA has the authority to offer small businesses impacted by coronavirus low-interest loans of up to $2 million.

Read the letter here (https://neguse.house.gov/download/neguse-sba).