“The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed life as we know it. It has made life more difficult for everyone, and small businesses have been hit especially hard. Many have had to shut their doors or drastically reduce or modify operations, placing their continued existence and financial stability at risk. In light of these circumstances, the federal government has passed legislation allowing small businesses and farms to take out loans to maintain payroll and make up for other losses of income due to the pandemic.

“In order to better understand the effectiveness of this legislation and the challenges small businesses and farmers are facing as we begin the reopening process, the Assembly and Senate held an online public hearing to solicit feedback from the small business community. As a member of the Small Business and Agriculture committees, I was able to listen to stakeholders share their experiences with federal programs created by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act, and whether the federal assistance provided was adequate and accessible.

“As a former dairy farmer, I understand the uncertainty and frustration that these small business owners and farmers are feeling. I am hopeful that the testimony provided will help my colleagues and me assess how to help small-business owners and farmers weather this pandemic. I will certainly continue to advocate for North Country farms and businesses as we continue to formulate solutions to help them begin to reopen.”