In Washington over the holiday weekend, legislation was passed which seeks to provide families, workers, and businesses additional relief to help combat the negative effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
To help Connecticut residents understand the details of this new relief bill and how it can potentially provide assistance, my office and I have compiled a list of the most useful programs included in this legislation, including loans for small businesses, unemployment benefits, and nutritional assistance.
Here are the highlights of the new federal relief legislation:
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- $284 billion for the revival of the Paycheck Protection Program
- Small businesses with fewer than 300 employees and with revenue losses of 25% percent in any quarter of 2020 may apply for a PPP loan. The legislation also gives businesses more freedom with which to spend the money received through this program. CLICK HERE to read more about the changes to the program.
- $600 direct payments
- A $600 direct payment will be made to individuals making up to $75,000 per year and couples making up to $150,000 per year. An additional $600 per dependent child will also be paid to those who have dependents. Direct payments may begin to go out as soon as this week.
- $120 billion in unemployment insurance benefits
- Those who are unemployed will receive $300 per week through March 14th. In addition, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program (which was created earlier this year for freelancers, gig workers, and self-employed individuals) will soon be accepting new applicants until March 14th.
- $69 billion for COVID-19 testing, vaccinations, and tracking
- More than $30 billion will be used to help states acquire and distribute vaccines, while $22 billion will be used to boost testing and tracing efforts.
- $25 billion in rental assistance
- Renters will be eligible for assistance if they meet the following criteria:
- Household income is below 80% of the area median income.
- A member of the household has qualified to receive unemployment benefits, has lost part of their income, or has undergone economic hardship due to the pandemic.
- $10 billion for child care
- Money will go towards child care providers to cover costs and families to help pay for child care.
- Nutritional assistance
- Those who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will see a 15% increase in benefits for the next six months. Additionally, $175 million has been approved for nutrition assistance programs for senior citizens.
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As more information regarding the implementation of these programs becomes available, I will of course pass that along so that you may be able to receive the assistance you need as soon as possible. |
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Here is the latest information and developments on COVID-19
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The CTAlert notification system - the state’s emergency alert system - provides text message notifications to users. Sign up by texting COVIDCT to 888-777. And for the most up-to-date information from the state on COVID-19 - including frequently asked questions, guidance and resources – visit ct.gov/coronavirus.
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