Impact of COVID-19 on the Forest Products Industry – National Level

As FRA works to provide the latest information on the impact of COVID-19 on the forest products industry, we’ll be updating this information daily each weekday. We are working to keep this as accurate as possible in a dynamic and evolving situation, and value your help as we work to keep this tool updated. If you see information that is incomplete, outdated or incorrect please send that – as well as any relevant links – to [email protected].

 


CISA Guidelines

CISA's Identifying Critical Infrastructure During COVID-19 guidance and accompanying list are intended to support state, local, and industry partners in identifying the critical infrastructure sectors and the essential workers.

This document gives guidance to state, local, tribal, and territorial jurisdictions and the private sector on defining essential critical infrastructure workers. Promoting the ability of such workers to continue to work during periods of community restriction, access management, social distancing, or closure orders/directives is crucial to community resilience and continuity of essential functions.

The most up to date version of the CISA Guidelines can be found HERE.


Paycheck Protection Program

The Paycheck Protection Program is a forgivable loan designed to help small businesses impacted by the current pandemic retain their employees. More information is available at this link, and a good list of what business qualify can be found HERE.

The PPP program application deadline has been extended until August 8, 2020.  

Paycheck Protection Program Loans Frequently Asked Questions are available HERE.

The interim final rule announcing the implementation of the Paycheck Protection Program is available HERE.

FRA has joined with 165 national and state associations signing on to a letter sent to Congressional leadership that urged them to provide additional funding for the PPP. This letter is available HERE.

Notice 2020-32 provides guidance regarding the deductibility for Federal income tax purposes of certain otherwise deductible expenses incurred in a taxpayer’s trade or business when the taxpayer receives a loan pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program under section 7(a)(36) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 636(a)(36)).



Small Business Administration

The stimulus package passed by the Senate on March 26 included an expansion of the SBA loans. Eligibility for SBA loans includes businesses that are less than 500 employees which include sole proprietors, contractors, and other self-employed individuals. Covered loans include payroll costs, costs related to certain group health benefits, and employee salaries.

The SBA is currently taking applications from businesses that are impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. FRA has gathered some resources to help navigate the SBA process.

  • The CARES Act established several new temporary programs to address the COVID-10 crisis. A summary of these funding options is available HERE.
  • To find out if you qualify for the SBA Loans click HERE.
  • You can begin the process to file a loan application with the SBA HERE.
  • Process guide on how to apply for loans can be found HERE.
  • Additional information on the SBA response can be found HERE.

Economic Injury Disaster Loans

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, small business owners are able to apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan advance of up to $10,000. This advance is designed to provide economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. This loan advance will not have to be repaid.

The disaster loans and grants are available to:

  • Small businesses with less than 500 employees.
  • Agricultural businesses.
  • You must have been in business as of January 31, 2020.
The grants are available until December 16, 2020, but will quickly run out of money. For more information and to apply, please click HERE.


Transportation

Drivers with expiring credentials as of March 1

The CDL waiver and Notice of Enforcement policy allow the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMCSA) to exercise its enforcement discretion to not take action in certain cases when a Commercial Learners Permit, CDL or Medical Certificate is expired.

Waiver in Response to the COVID-19 Emergency – For States, CDL Holders, CLP Holders, and Interstate Drivers Operating Commercial Motor Vehicles can be found HERE. Expires September 30, 2020.

 

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

FMSCA COVID-19 Information & Resources are available HERE.

FMCSA Extends COVID-19 Emergency Hours Waiver

  • Due to the ongoing national COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has extended the hours of service waiver through August 14th for carriers providing direct assistance in support of COVID-19 relief efforts. The exemption was previously set to expire on July 14th.
  • The waiver covers drivers hauling livestock and livestock feed; medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19; and supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation, and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19 such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap, and disinfectants.


Other Useful Information

On March 28, the U.S. Department of Labor added to the guidance for workers and employers explaining paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave benefits under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Find out more information HERE.

Small Business Fund

The U.S, Chamber of Commerce Foundation is offering grants to small businesses of $5000. The Small Business Fund is funded by corporate and philanthropic partners. To qualify for a loan a business must employ between 3 and 20 people, be in an economically vulnerable community, and have been harmed financially by the COVID-19 pandemic. To find out more information on the Small Business Fund click HERE.

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