As the COVID-19 pandemic has heavily impacted the U.S. economy, Congress has sought to intervene through the passage several legislative packages striving to minimize the overall impact to workers, businesses and the economy. Through these packages, two small business support programs were created both of which are detailed below.
The first program was created through the passage of the first COVID relief package, the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act. That bill created a $1 billion fund to immediately assist small businesses hit hard by the current economic shutdown. Unlike traditional Small Business Administration (SBA) funding mechanisms, this program is being administered directly by the SBA and is live and accepting applications currently.
The second program was created when the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020. This historic $2 trillion economic stimulus package, including $349 million in federal funds appropriated specifically to support small business, outlines two loan programs intended to assist those impacted economically by this global pandemic.
Small Business Administration Loan Program Note: Small businesses may apply to both programs but cannot participate in or accept funds from both programs. It is up to businesses to determine which program best fits the needs business before enrolling.
Access the AAOS chart that defines eligibility, what the program does, loan forgiveness, and how to participate.
How the CARES Act Impacts Orthopaedists
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act is the third Covid-19 relief-related package that was considered by Congress and signed into law by President Trump.
See the provisions most relevant to orthopaedic surgeons and their patients.
