PSA: Maine Integrative Family Care, Grace Health, and Fulcrum Family Health have joined together to launch a physician-led small business COVID clinic. Learn more HERE.
Portland Regional Chamber president & CEO Quincy Hentzel reminds us to "Stay the Course" as part of a PSA campaign to promote best practices to slow the spread of COVID-19, alert businesses about resources to assist them during this pandemic, and to thank the public for being safe, kind, and giving.
Please see additional COVID PSA's HERE.

**LATEST DEVELOPMENTS**​

Federal COVID Relief Updates: Restaurant Revitalization Fund

As part of the American Rescue Act passed by Congress this year, and signed into law by President Biden, the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund was established by the Small Business Administration. 

Today, the SBA announced that the application period for these funds will soon commence, with a seven day pilot period, a 21 day priority period (for businesses owned by women, veterans, or socially disadvantaged groups), and finally a 21 day period for all other eligible businesses. 

These funds will provide restaurants and other eligible businesses with revenue replacements for up to $10 million in pandemic related losses (no more than $5 million for each physical location). Eligible uses of these funds include payroll, mortgages, rent, debt service, utilities, maintenance, construction of outdoor seating, supplies, and food/beverage expenses.   

Helpful links can be found here:​
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION FROM THE SBA

Legislature Passes Supplemental Budget

Last night the Maine Legislature gave final approval to the supplemental budget. We thank Maine Legislature for their tireless work on behalf of the Maine people and we are especially grateful that this measure guarantees full conformity for businesses who received PPP loans and Mainers who received unemployment benefits in 2020. 

This bipartisan agreement ensures that those businesses and families hit hardest by the pandemic are able to enjoy tax relief and certainty as they continue to navigate the uncertainties that lie ahead. Agreements like this are evidence that our government is strongest when leaders put partisan differences aside to deliver on behalf on Maine people.  

Much work lies ahead in this legislative session, but we remain hopeful that the Maine Legislature can continue to work in good faith to protect jobs and rebuild our economy as our state recovers from the devastation wrought by COVID-19.

New: Governor's Reopening Guidelines

Last week Governor Mills announced significant adjustments to Maine's COVID-19 reopening guidelines. These  guidelines address travel and quarantine requirements for Maine residents and out of state visitors, and adjustments to capacity guidelines for indoor and outdoor venues and businesses.

As of March 5, 2021:

  • All New England states are exempt from the testing/quarantine requirements for travel to Maine
  • All Mainers and out of state visitors who have been fully vaccinated and/or have had COVID-19 and recovered in the last 90 days are exempt from the testing and quarantine requirements for travel to MaineAs of March 26, 2021:
  • Bars and tasting rooms can open
  • Provided social distancing and mask requirements are followed:
    • All indoor venues can operate at 50% capacity
    • All outdoor venues can operate at 75% capacity

As of May 1, 2021:

  • All states, except for those specifically designated by the Maine CDC, are exempt from the testing/quarantine requirements for travel to Maine

As of May 24, 2021:

  • Provided social distancing and mask requirements are followed:
    • All indoor venues can operate at 75% capacity
    • All outdoor venues can operate at 100% capacity

Additionally, on a rolling basis over the next three weeks, the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development will be updating their COVID-19 checklists for businesses to reflect current best practices and the evolving public health situation. These updated checklists will be released in batches on either Thursdays or Fridays.

Additional links:
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Emergency Rental Assistance Program Now Open

In the Consolidated Appropriations Act passed by Congress in December, 2020, Maine received $200 million in funds available to support Mainers with rent and utility payment relief. The application portal for these funds is open as of today, March 1, 2021. 

These funds will be disbursed by Maine's Community Action Agencies. Eligibility requirements include income limits, significant reductions in income or receipt of unemployment benefits, and a risk of housing insecurity. 

Eligible expenses include rent and utilities payments past due back to March 13, 2020, future rent payments up to 3 months in the future, as well as some internet and moving expenses. For example, the maximum amount of rent funded by this relief could include rent expenses for the past 12 months, plus 3 future months for a total of 15 months of rent relief. 

While it is not expected that Maine will run out of funding to cover rental and utility needs in our state, landlords and needy tenants are encouraged to work together and apply for relief as soon as possible. 

More information and the application portal for this program can be found here.  

Maine’s Earned Paid Leave Law Now In Effect

On January 1, 2021, Maine’s Earned Paid Leave law became effective. This applies to most businesses that employ more than 10 employees in Maine for more than 120 days in a calendar year.  

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
  • Final Responses to Public Comments on Earned Paid Leave (PDF)
  • The Poster - Regulation of Employment Poster - rev 10/20 (PDF)
  • The Law (Web Page)
  • The Rules (PDF)
  • Frequently Asked Questions - Schools (PDF)
  • Frequently Asked Questions - Municipalities (PDF)
  • Detailed Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
  • Earned Paid Leave Presentation Slides (PDF)

LEARN MORE HERE

Economic Impact Payments Update

The IRS is urging people to visit its website for the most current information on the second round of Economic Impact Payment.

For more information about Economic Impact Payments and the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit, visit http://IRS.gov/eip.
SEE ABOVE FOR LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

CARES ACT, PPP & EIDL

Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) & Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)

PPP Tax Conformity Update

The Maine Legislature is currently working on the supplemental budget proposal from Governor Mills (LD42). This proposal addresses revenue gaps in the biennial budget in effect through June 30, 2021. Part of this proposal deals with the tax treatment of PPP funding allocated to small businesses through the CARES Act.

The Legislature's Appropriations Committee will be considering a compromise proposal put forth by Governor Mills. We appreciate the Governor's efforts to address this important issue.  The Chamber is hopeful this can get resolved quickly and continues to support full tax conformity in an effort to assist all small businesses as we continue to navigate this pandemic.

As of now, we are awaiting the transmission of a letter from the Taxation Committee to the Appropriations Committee before Appropriations can begin their work. Thus far in the Taxation Committee legislators have split on party lines, with the majority of Democrats supporting Governor Mills' compromise, and all Republicans supporting full conformity. We urge legislators of both parties to come together and put Maine's jobs and hardworking employees first by providing Maine businesses with some certainty in an uncertain time. 

We thank all of our members who have have taken the time to reach out to their legislators on this important issue. Members are encouraged to continue outreach out to all members of the Appropriations Committee. Contact information for these members can be found here:

PPP Changes from the Biden Administration

The Biden Administration recently released new guidelines for the Paycheck Protection Program. As part of these new guidelines, during the two week period from February 22, 2021 to March 10, 2021 only businesses with 20 or fewer employees may access the program funds. 

Additional changes to the program announced last week include:
  • Changes to the funding formula to help sole proprietors, independent contractors, and self-employed individuals
  • A $1 billion set-aside for sole proprietors, independent contractors, and self-employed individuals in low and moderate income areas
  • Removal of a previous restriction on individuals convicted of a felony in the last year from receiving funds (except for individuals who are currently incarcerated)
  • Removal of a previous restriction on individuals who are delinquent on federal student loans from receiving funds 
More information on these program changes can be found here.  

Contact Your State Representatives and Senators on PPP Tax Conformity

The Maine Legislature is currently working on the supplemental budget proposal from Governor Mills (LD42). This proposal addresses revenue gaps in the biennial budget in effect through June 30, 2021. Part of this proposal deals with the tax treatment of PPP funding allocated to small businesses through the CARES Act. 

Unlike at the federal level, where all PPP loan proceeds are tax-free and all expenses paid for with PPP funds are deductible, the current supplemental budget requires Maine businesses to add back expenses paid for with PPP monies to their taxable income.

This will result in a loss to Maine businesses of $100MM if not corrected before the final vote on the supplemental budget.  

Throughout the next few days, the Appropriations Committee will be considering this supplemental budget, including the proposed guidance on PPP tax conformity.

The Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce is asking all member businesses to contact their legislators and push for full conformity with federal tax guidance on PPP loans. Not doing so will increase the burden on small businesses struggling to survive through the pandemic. 

CLICK HERE FOR LEGISLATOR CONTACT INFO

Additional Round of PPP Opening Today

TODAY (Friday, January 15, 2021) at 9 AM the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA) will re-open the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan portal to PPP-eligible lenders with less than $1 billion in assets. The portal will re-open to all PPP-eligible lenders on Tuesday, January 19th.

Loans are available for both first and second draw PPP loans. Eligibility criteria has changed from the first round of PPP allocated in the CARES Act. 

Loans will be available to businesses with 500 or fewer employees that have not previously received PPP. This next round does allow certain existing PPP borrowers to receive a ‘second draw’ PPP loan IF they have used all of their first loan (or will have by the time of the second disbursement), have no more than 300 employees, and can demonstrate a year-over-year quarterly revenue reduction of at least 25%.

HOW TO APPLY:

The Chamber encourages businesses to reach out to their financial institution directly, as each will have a different timeline as to when they will begin to accept applications from interested borrowers. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
  • Summary of PPP Process and Terms for First Time Borrowers (PDF)
  • Summary of PPP Process and Terms for Second Time Borrowers (PDF)
  • Additional Information for Minority, Underserved, Veteran, and Women-Owned Businesses (PDF)
  • SBA Lender Match (Web Link)
  • List of PPP-Approved Lenders in Maine (PDF)
  • PPP Application Form for First Time Borrowers (PDF)
  • PPP Application Form for Second Time Borrowers (PDF)
  • Additional Information on PPP Loan Forgiveness (PDF)

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Additional Round of PPP Lending Available Soon

New legislation signed into law on December 27, 2020, provides an additional $900 billion in emergency COVID relief to families, workers, and small businesses impacted by the pandemic. This new legislation allocates nearly $285 billion to the Small Business Administration (SBA) for additional Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for those in need. 

Loans will be available to businesses with 500 or fewer employees that have not previously received PPP. This next round does allow certain existing PPP borrowers to receive a ‘second draw’ PPP loan IF they have used all of their first loan (or will have by the time of the second disbursement), have no more than 300 employees, and can demonstrate a year-over-year quarterly revenue reduction of at least 25%.

Currently, the legislation is being reviewed by the SBA who plans to begin accepting loan applications in the coming weeks. The Chamber will be following this closely and will let our members know when and how applications can be submitted. 

LEARN MORE HERE
INFORMATIONAL WEBINAR:
On April 2, 2020, the Portland Regional Chamber hosted a virtual presentation and live Q&A session with U.S. Congresswoman Chellie Pingree to answer questions regarding small business options for financial assistance from the SBA.  Watch the replay HERE

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)


If you're ready to apply, you can download a copy of the PPP borrower application form (revised June 24, 2020) to see the information that will be requested from you when you apply with a lender.

View a list of PPP Participating Lenders HERE

Reminder: The PPP loan will be fully forgiven if the funds are used for allowed costs (at least 60% of the forgiven amount must have been used for payroll).

Read more about PPP Loan Forgiveness HERE and Download the PPP Loan Forgiveness Application HERE

Additional PPP materials: 
FAQs for Lenders and Borrowers (06/25/2020)
How to Calculate Loan Amounts (06-26-20)
Changes to Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

On Friday, June 5, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Flexibility Act was signed into law.
​
This legislation includes several changes in forgiveness requirements and other aspects of the program. Read more about the PPP and find a lender HERE.

Below are some of the changes included in the new law:
  • Extends from 8 weeks to 24 of the period in which borrowers must use the money to qualify for loan forgiveness
  • Allows borrowers to use 60% of the funds for payroll costs and 40% of the funds for other costs (this was previously 75%/25%)
  • Eliminates the provision that makes a PPP loan recipient who has funds forgiven ineligible to defer payroll tax payments.
  • Allows borrowers to defer payments until the date their lender receives the forgiveness amount from the SBA
  • Extends the June 30th "rehire" deadline to December 31, 2020. As long as FTEs or salary/hourly wage are restored to February 15th levels any time prior to the end of 2020, no reduction in forgiveness will be required.
  • Provides that during the period between February 15, 2020, and December 31, 2020, the amount of loan forgiveness will not be reduced if a borrower experiences a loss of FTEs, as long as the borrower is able to document a) an inability to rehire individuals who were employees as of Feb. 15; b) an inability to rehire individuals who were employees of the eligible recipient on February 15th or c) an inability to return to the same level of business activity as before February 15th due to compliance with requirements established or guidance issued by U.S. DHHS, U.S. CDC, or OSHA.

Last week the Chamber hosted a webinar with Verrill providing information and answers on the newly passed PPP legislation and what it means for borrowers. You can view the replay of that webinar HERE.
SBA Releases PPP Loan Forgiveness Application

SBA and the U.S. Treasury have released the Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application and instructions for the application. The form and instructions are for borrowers to apply for forgiveness of their PPP loans, consistent with the CARES Act.

You can view the Loan Forgiveness Form and instructions HERE

The U.S. Treasury Department and U.S. Small Business Administration have also released an updated list of FAQs based on new guidance for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

Notably, this new guidance states that an employer will  not  be penalized with reduced PPP loan forgiveness if an employee rejects an offer to return to their job. 

You must provide a written offer of work which includes the start date and rate at which the employee will be paid and keep a record of the employee’s response. 

Additionally, the SBA has made Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) available to agricultural small businesses. 
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) - Additional Funding Available Monday, April 27, 2020

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and U.S. Treasury have announced that banks and credit unions may process PPP loans again beginning at 10:30 AM on Monday, April 27, 2020.

Last week, Congress passed legislation that approved $321 billion in additional funds for the Paycheck Protection Program, a federal assistance program for businesses impacted by COVID-19. You can apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender or through any federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, and Farm Credit System institution that is participating.

 
NOTE: If you already submitted a PPP application with a lender you do not need to re-apply. However, it is a good idea to contact your lender to follow up on the status of your application now that additional funding has been made available.
​
Seasonal Businesses: Additionally, PPP requirements were changed to allow seasonal businesses to use any consecutive 12-week period between May 1, 2019, and September 15, 2019, to account for when their business was at full capacity.
View the New Rule HERE
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law on Friday, March 27.  The  CARES Act includes  the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), an initiative that provides 100% federally guaranteed loans to small businesses,  meaning financial institutions will be allowed to lend directly to businesses, and those loans will be backed by the Small Business Administration (SBA). A portion of these loans may be forgiven  if borrowers maintain their payrolls during the  crisis  or restore their payrolls afterward  (more details below, under the “Loan Forgiveness" section).  
 
Friday, April 3: The SBA and U.S. Treasury Department have issued an updated interim final rule for the Paycheck Protection Program. The updated regulation  calls for an interest rate of 1% on PPP loans.  

Some helpful links:
PAYROLL COSTS:
Borrowers are required to utilize 75% of the PPP loan proceeds for payroll costs. In the interim final rule, the SBA released a  step-by-step process  for calculating payroll costs:  

  • Step 1:  Aggregate the total payroll costs from the last 12 months for employees whose principal place of residence is the United States. 
  • Step 2:  Subtract any compensation paid to an employee in excess of an annual compensation (including salary, wages, and tips) of $100,000.  
  • Step 3:  Calculate the average monthly payroll costs (divide the amount from Step 2 by 12).  
  • Step 4:  Multiply the average monthly payroll costs from Step 3 by 2.5.  
  • Step 5:  Add the outstanding amount of an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) made between January 31, 2020 and April 3, 2020, after deducting the amount of any advance under an EIDL COVID-19 loan (since it does not have to be repaid). 

A PDF copy of the interim rule can be found HERE 

WHO CAN APPLY? 
Businesses that are:
  • A small business with fewer than 500 employees.  
  • A small business that otherwise meets the SBA’s size standard.   
  • ​A 501(c)(3) with fewer than 500 employees.   
  • An individual who operates as a sole proprietor.   
  • ​An individual who operates as an independent contractor.   
  • An individual who is self-employed who regularly carries on any trade or business.   
  • ​A Tribal business concern that meets the SBA size standard.   
  • A 501(c)(19) Veterans Organization that meets the SBA size standard.   

Businesses in certain industries can have more than 500 employees if they meet applicable SBA employee-based size standards for those industries: 
  • If you are in the accommodation and food services sector (NAICS 72), the 500-employee rule is applied on a per physical location basis.   
  • ​If you are operating as a franchise or receive financial assistance from an approved Small Business Investment Company the normal affiliation rules do not apply.   
  • Click HERE for additional details . 

For this program, the SBA’s affiliation standards are waived for small businesses: 
  1. In the hotel and food services industries (click HERE for NAICS code 72 to confirm); or 
  2. That are franchises in the SBA’s Franchise Directory (click HERE to check); or 
  3. That receive financial assistance from small business investment companies licensed by the SBA. Additional guidance may be released as appropriate.   

HOW TO APPLY: 
You can apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender or through any federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, and Farm Credit System institution that is participating. 
 
Other regulated lenders will be available to make these loans once they are approved and enrolled in the program. You should consult with your local lender as to whether it is participating. 
 
All loans will have the same terms regardless of the lender or borrower. A list of participating lenders, as well as additional information and full terms, can be found at www.sba.gov. 

WHAT CAN I USE THESE LOANS FOR?
You should use the proceeds from these loans for:   
  • Payroll costs, including benefits;   
  • Interest on mortgage obligations, incurred before February 15, 2020;   
  • Rent, under lease agreements in force before February 15, 2020; and   
  • Utilities, for which service began before February 15, 2020.   

HOW MUCH OF MY LOAN WILL BE FORGIVEN?
You will owe money when your loan is due if you use the loan amount for anything other than payroll costs, mortgage interest, rent, and utility payments over the 8 weeks after getting the loan.   
 
​You will also owe money if you do not maintain your staff and payroll. This  means;  

  • Number  of Staff:  Your loan forgiveness will be reduced if you decrease your full-time employee headcount during the length of the loan.  
  • Level  of Payroll:  Your loan forgiveness will also be reduced if you decrease salaries and wages by more than 25% for any employee that made less than $100,000 annualized in 2019.   
  • Re-Hiring:  You have until June 30, 2020, to restore your full-time employment and salary levels for any changes made between February 15, 2020, and April 26, 2020. 

ADDITIONAL LINKS:

borrower_paycheck_protection_program_application__v1_.pdf
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ppp_--_overview.pdf
File Size: 423 kb
File Type: pdf
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ppp_borrower_information_fact_sheet.pdf
File Size: 227 kb
File Type: pdf
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Note for Sole Proprietors, Independent Contractors, and Self-Employed Individuals: Payroll Costs are defined as the sum of payments of any compensation to or income of a sole proprietor or independent contractor that is a wage, commission, income, net earnings from self-employment, or similar compensation and that is in an amount that is not more than $100,000 in one year, as pro-rated for the covered period.

FAQs - SOLE PROPRIETORS & INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS:
Am I eligible to apply for a PPP loan?
You are eligible if you are  an individual who operates under a sole proprietorship or as an independent contractor or eligible self-employed individual, and you were in operation on February 15, 2020.  
 
When can I apply?  
Independent contractors who file their taxes using 1099 forms and self-employed individuals who have the ability to apply for their own PPP loans.
 
What will I need in order to apply?  
You will need  payroll processor records, payroll tax filings, or Form  1099- MISC, or income and expenses from a sole proprietorship.  Borrowers that do not have any such documentation must provide other supporting documentation, such as bank records, sufficient to demonstrate the qualifying payroll amount.  
 
Am I able to apply for both EIDL and PPP?   
Yes. However, there are limits on forgiveness when rolling funds from EIDL into PPP loans.  We recommend you check with your lender first before proceeding.  
 

LOAN FORGIVENESS
Businesses  may be eligible for all or a portion of their loan to be forgiven. The loan forgiveness is equal to the monetary amount spent  on the items listed below  during the 8-week period beginning  on the date of origin of the loan: 
  • Payroll costs (see above for step-by-step payroll calculation)  
  • Interest on the mortgage obligation accrued  
  • Rent  
  • Utility payments  
  • Additional wages paid to tipped employees (if applicable)  

NOTE:  Loan forgiveness cannot exceed the principal of the loan. The amount of loan forgiveness may be reduced depending on reductions in the number of employees or a reduction in salaries (see below for sample calculations).  
 
Number of Employees:  
Payroll Cost x Average number FTEs per month for 8 weeks of loan /Average number of FTEs from February 15, 2020 - June 30, 2020 OR Average number of FTEs from January 1, 2020 - February 29, 2020 OR Average number of FTEs from February 15, 2020 - June 30, 2020. 

For example: If your business had a total of 10 full-time equivalent employees during the period of January 1, 2020 - February 29, 2020, and after receiving the loan you only employ 5 full-time employees during the 8-week period, the amount that would be forgiven would be one-half of the amount expended for payroll, mortgage interest, rent, and utilities during that 8-week period (see below if you restored or plan to restore these employees/wages).  
 
Reduction in Salaries:  
Payroll Cost minus (-) the amount of reduction in wages greater than 25% compared to the most recent full quarter. (FTEs earning more than $100,000 not included)  

If you bring back employees or restore their wages: Reductions in employment or wages dating back to February 15, 2020 and ending April 27, 2020 will not reduce the amount of loan forgiveness  as long as  by June 30, 2020 you have eliminated the reduction in employees or wages.  
 
You can view the SBA’s guidance on the Protection  Protection  Program HERE
Economic Injury Relief Loan (EIDL)

Apply for a COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan HERE

FAQs - BUSINESSES:
When can I expect the advance on the EIDL and what will the amount be?  
Although originally advertised as a 3-day turnaround for the EIDL advance, the SBA is notifying borrowers that due to  the overwhelming amount of applications,  the  EIDL advances  are taking much longer to process. As soon as we receive info on a clear timeline we will update this information. 

The advance is  for up to  $10,000 and the amount will be $1,000 per full-time employee for businesses with 10 employees or fewer.  
 
How is the amount of my EIDL determined?   
The loan is based on your businesses’ gross revenues and operating expenses for the prior 12 months (February 2019 - January 2020). The loan is  intended to address working capital needs.  
 
If I already applied for an SBA Disaster Loan before the new EIDLs were announced, should I apply again?   
If you applied for  a loan through the SBA’s disaster relief program  prior to March 30, 2020, you will need to apply again through  this portal. This portal is specifically for COVID-19 EIDLs.  
 
How can I check the status of my EIDL?  
Upon completion of the loan application, you will receive an application number. To inquire about the status of the loan, we suggest you contact the local SBA offices at  (800) 659-2955.

Have Additional Questions? 
The Portland Regional Chamber is here to support your business or organization as you navigate the many COVID-19 related financial resources becoming available. If you have questions regarding these programs, we encourage you to reach out directly to our Director of Advocacy, Joe Marro.​​
ADDITIONAL CARES ACT INFORMATION

The CARES Act also:  
  • Allows employers to defer social security payroll taxes, with half deferred until December 31, 2021, and the remaining half until December 31, 2022. 
  • Allows the SBA to increase the limit of their Express Loans from $350,000 to $1 million to help provide additional working capital to businesses. 
  • Provides a refundable payroll tax credit for employers whose operations were fully or partially shut down by COVID-19 or whose gross receipts declined by more than 50% (those with Paycheck Protection Program loans are not eligible for credit) 
 
​For  Individuals/Employees:  
  • The Act includes direct payments to individuals, with the following qualifications: 
  • $1200 for individuals making less than $75,000/year and $150,000 for couples. 
  • Those making more than these amounts (up to $99,000 for individuals and $198,000 for couples) will see a reduction in the payment.  
  • For every qualifying child age 16 or under, the payment will be an additional $500.  
  • If you filed a tax return in 2019 or 2018, no action is required. If you did not file a tax return in 2018 or 2019, you should file for 2019 as soon as possible. Find more info from the IRS HERE 
  • Individuals receiving unemployment benefits will be eligible for up to an additional $600 per week on top of state unemployment insurance. This added benefit will be available for up to 4 months. Self-employed individuals are eligible for this benefit and Maine DOL will release guidance on when to apply in the coming weeks. 
    ​
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Labor has released a Q&A page to address the changes to paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave included in Phase 2 of the federal Coronavirus relief package. This page has information for both employers and employees. ​
SEE ABOVE FOR LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

 STATE & CITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

​Portland Outdoor Dining Proposals for Summer 2021

The City of Portland recently concluded a survey on outdoor dining operations for the Summer of 2021. Survey results indicated many competing opinions on how this program should function for the upcoming summer season.

Currently, city staff is proposing a more limited set of street closures for 2021 including Wharf Street and Dana Street, with restricted traffic flows and increased outdoor dining on Middle Street, much like last summer. 

Contact information for Councilors Thibodeau, Chong, Zarro, and Ali can be found here.

CLICK HERE TO SEE SURVEY RESULTS

Portland: Apply to Extend Outdoor Operations until May 10, 2021

On Monday, January 4, 2021, the Portland City Council approved an extension of businesses' ability to operate outdoors until May 10, 2021.

Businesses that currently hold permits to operate outdoors are required to apply for a permit extension by January 15, 2021. No application fee is required. 

Please note that this permit does not allow space to be used for the storage of equipment or furniture. 

For more information, please contact bl@portlandmaine.gov

APPLY FOR AN EXTENSION HERE

Mills Administration Continues Early Business Closing Time Amid Rising Cases, Hospitalizations

December 4, 2020
The Mills Administration announced today it will extend the requirement for certain businesses statewide to close by 9:00 p.m. through Sunday, January 3, 2021. The extension, which lasts beyond New Year’s Eve, is aimed at limiting activities that lead to COVID-19 transmission, amid a sustained and dangerous increase in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and positivity rates in the State of Maine.

View the full press release HERE.

All outdoor and indoor amusement venues, movie theaters, performing arts venues, casinos, and businesses that provide seated food and drink service, including social clubs, restaurants, and bars and tasting rooms currently open for outdoor service, must close by 9:00 p.m. through Sunday, December 6, 2020.

Updated Checklists for Businesses:
All COVID-19 Prevention checklists can be viewed on the DECE's website.

Governor Mills Launches $40 Million Economic Recovery Grant Program to Support Maine Tourism, Hospitality & Retail Small Businesses

November 30, 2020
​Governor Janet Mills announced today an economic recovery grant program to support Maine’s tourism, hospitality, and retail small businesses. Backed by $40 million in Federal CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Funds (CRF), the Tourism, Hospitality & Retail Recovery Grant Program is focused specifically on supporting Maine’s service sector small businesses, such as restaurants, bars, tasting rooms, lodging and retail shops, which have been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and now face additional challenges with the coming winter months.

View the full press release HERE.

APPLICATION DETAILS

  • Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis to the first 2,500 applicants which will allow for funding to be dispersed as applications are received and reviewed.

  • UPDATE: The application portal is now open on the DECD’s website and will remain open until funds are depleted.

  • The application is expected to take about ten minutes to complete. Funds must be committed by December 30, 2020, per guidance from the U.S. Treasury Department.

  • Eligible applicants may receive up to $20,000.

Read more HERE.

Governor Mills Announces New Restrictions After Surge in COVID-19 Cases

November 1 Announcement includes a reduction in indoor gathering limits, a delay in the opening date for bars and tasting rooms, and changes to the states exempted from Maine's 14-day quarantine travel restrictions.

Reducing Indoor Gathering Limits

Effective Wednesday, November 4, indoor gatherings will return to a maximum of 50 people, regardless of capacity. The gathering limit on outdoor activities remains at 100 people under existing guidelines, with physical distancing and the use of face coverings. Occupancy limits for retail establishments will remain at 5 people per 1,000 square feet of shopping space. The State had previously increased indoor seating limits to 50 percent of permitted capacity or 100 people, whichever was less.
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Read the Updated Guidelines for Seated Indoor Service HERE

Read the Guidelines for Large Gatherings HERE

Postponing the Reopening of Bars and Tasting Rooms

The reopening of bars and tasting rooms for indoor seated service is postponed until further notice. The Mills Administration noted the rising COVID-19 case numbers in Maine and scientific evidence that the unique environment of bars, including enclosed spaces where people gather with members outside their own household while talking loudly and not wearing face coverings, elevates the risk of COVID-19 transmission in making this decision. The Administration will continue to evaluate public health metrics to determine when it is safe to reopen bars and tasting rooms for indoor seated service.

Read the Updated Guidelines for Seated Indoor Service HERE

Adjusting States Exempt from Maine’s Quarantine or Testing Alternative

Effective Wednesday, November 4, 2020, people traveling from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut are no longer exempt from Maine’s quarantine or negative test requirement. People coming here from these states must either quarantine for 14 days or receive a negative COVID-19 test with a sample taken less than 72 hours from arrival in Maine, quarantining while awaiting test results. This protocol includes Maine residents returning from one of the non-exempt states. New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts remain exempt from the revisions at this time.

Even with these updated travel protocols, Governor Mills strongly recommended visitors from exempt states and Maine people returning from exempt states, especially during the upcoming holiday season, to obtain a test in order to “Know Before You Go.” Under the Department of Health and Human Services Standing Order, any person in Maine who feels they need a test, with or without symptoms, can get a test without an order from a primary care provider.

Extending the Keeping Maine Healthy Grant Program

The State has also extended its financial support to Maine municipalities established by the Keep Maine Healthy Plan. The Mills Administration previously allotted more than $13 million in federal CARES ACT funding to 132 municipalities and two Tribal governments to develop and implement their own COVID-19 prevention, education, and protection plans..

Governor Mills Announces Stage 4 of Reopening

Note: Please see above for updates to Stage 4 announced Nov. 1

Beginning Tuesday, October 13, 2020, Maine will move into Stage 4 of the Plan to Restart Maine’s Economy.

With cold weather months approaching, Stage 4 increases limits on indoor seating to 50 percent capacity of permitted occupancy, or 100 people (whichever is less) and maintains the critical public health measures outlined in COVID-19 Checklists, such as enhanced cleaning practices and physical distancing. You can read the full Executive Order HERE.

Strengthening of Face Covering Mandate

Governor Mills also expanded the Executive Order requiring certain businesses to enforce the State’s face covering requirement. Today's announcement requires that a broader set of entities, such as private schools and municipal buildings, ensure that employees and people in their buildings adhere to this critical health measure.

The Order also expands the scope of the enforcement statewide, rather than in just Maine’s coastal counties and more populous cities. 
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Face coverings have been proven to significantly reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Executive Order Signed: Face Covering Enforcement

July 8, 2020, Governor Mills signed an Executive Order strengthening the enforcement component of the State’s face-covering requirement.

The Order mandates that businesses REQUIRE face coverings in the following locations:
  • Retail stores with 50,000+ square feet
  • Restaurants
  • Outdoor bars and tasting rooms
  • Lodging establishments
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The Order applies to businesses in the coastal counties of Hancock, Waldo, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Cumberland, and York, as well as in the cities of Bangor, Brewer, Lewiston, Auburn, and Augusta.

The Order also authorizes Municipalities to enforce the use of face coverings on streets and sidewalks, in parks, and in other public spaces where individuals are gathering and not able to maintain at least six feet of physical distance from one another.

Face coverings include cloth face coverings, disposable face coverings of similar quality, and face shields, provided that such face shield extends below the chin and covers the ears.

Read the full release from Governor Mills HERE

Background: Under an April Executive Order, individuals are required to wear face coverings in public places where physical distancing is difficult to maintain, as recommended by the U.S. CDC. And under a May Executive Order, businesses are required to post readily visible signs notifying customers of this face-covering requirement and are permitted to deny entry or service to a person not wearing a covering, unless exempt.

Civil Emergency Extended: Also announced yesterday, Maine's State of Civil Emergency was extended for another 30 days.

State Announces New Policy for Out-of-State Visitors, Enhanced Testing Capacity

The State announced today the Keep Maine Healthy plan, which includes an alternative to the 14-day quarantine requirement for out-of-state visitors. 

Under the Keep Maine Healthy plan:
  • Adults who obtain and receive a negative COVID-19 test result no later than 72 hours prior to arrival are able to forgo the 14-day quarantine.
  • Visitors will be asked to sign a Certificate of Compliance that states they have received a negative result, have completed quarantine in Maine, or will quarantine in Maine. Visitors must provide this compliance form when checking in to any lodging business.
  • The State will exempt residents of New Hampshire and Vermont from the testing and 14-day quarantine. This exemption is effective immediately for travel and effective June 12th for stays in lodging establishments.
  • The State will increase symptom checking in high-traffic places.
  • Financial support will be provided to local public health and COVID-19 prevention efforts.

The State of Maine also announced today a vast expansion of COVID-19 testing in Maine. The plan announced today furthers the IDEXX partnership to quadruple testing capacity in July, advances swab-and-send site development, and makes testing available to more people in Maine.

State Announces Updates to Rural Reopening Plan

The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) announced last week that the State will be accelerating the opening of some Stage 3 businesses in Maine's 13 rural counties, effective June 12. These counties are included in the State's Rural Reopening Plan. This includes bars and tasting rooms for outdoor service, fitness centers, and tattoo and piercing parlors. Businesses in Cumberland, York, and Androscoggin counties are not included in this announcement.

Read the full announcement from Governor Mills HERE.

State Requires Businesses to Post Signage For Face Coverings

In an Order announced last week, the State added a new requirement for businesses to post signage regarding face coverings.

Beginning Friday, June 5, 2020, businesses that are accessible to the public must post readily visible signs notifying customers of the requirement to wear cloth face coverings where physical distancing is not possible, as many already have.

The Order also allows businesses to deny entry or service to a person who is not wearing a covering and is not otherwise exempt from the requirement to do so.

Expanded Outdoor Dining & Retail Space in Greater Portland

Stage 2 of the plan for Restarting Maine's Economy. Many businesses in Greater Portland are now allowed to reopen to the public under health and safety checklists. Retail stores are allowed to reopen and restaurants are allowed to open for outdoor dining only in Cumberland, York, and Androscoggin counties.

Below you will find information on expanded outdoor dining and retail policies in cities and towns in the Greater Portland region.

If your business is interested in accessing expanded outdoor seating or space, please reach out to the Chamber and we can put you in touch with the appropriate contact in your city or town.

PORTLAND
On Monday, May 18, 2020, the Portland City Council unanimously approved a proposal to expand outdoor dining and retail space in Portland. This plan includes the closure of some streets and flexibility for the City Manager to allow businesses to expand their access to outdoor space and city assets. 

The program also includes the expansion of outdoor dining and retail operations on sidewalks, parks/squares, private parking lots, and the use of parklets in parking spaces. These temporary business licenses will be valid June 1 through November 1.

Read more about the approved Portland plan HERE

SOUTH PORTLAND
The South Portland City Council is considering a proposed ordinance this week relating to the expansion of outdoor dining and retail space. The proposed ordinance would allow an expedited review and permit process for businesses seeking to expand or establish outdoor dining and other retail and personal services, where appropriate.

Read more about South Portland's proposed ordinance HERE

WESTBROOK
The City of Westbrook has proposed a plan to assist Westbrook’s restaurants, food service establishments, and retail establishments. Westbrook’s proposal allows businesses to expand dining and retail areas within certain areas of public property not typically permitted for business activity such as public areas, parking lots, public rights-of-way, and parklets.

Read more about Westbrook’s Proposal HERE

SCARBOROUGH
The Town of Scarborough has passed an emergency ordinance allowing businesses to expand their outdoor activities without going through a site plan revision. The ordinance runs from May 21 through October 15.

Read more about Scarborough's Ordinance and find the application HERE

FALMOUTH
The Town of Falmouth has proposed an emergency ordinance to temporarily expand allowed outdoor eating areas and outdoor retail display areas. The proposed ordinance provides for an expedited staff-level permitting process for the temporary establishment of outdoor eating areas and outdoor retail display areas and would allow these outdoor business activities to be temporarily permitted under flexible standards. This is pending approval by the town Planning Board this week.

Read more about Falmouth’s proposed ordinance HERE

GORHAM
The Town of Gorham has adopted an Outdoor Dining Policy to encourage and better assist public dining options available under the current circumstances. The Policy does not require obtaining additional use permits or approvals from the Town.

Read More About Gorham’s Policy HERE

State Releases New & Updated Checklists, Updates to Reopening Timeline

On Wednesday, May 20, 2020, the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) updated COVID-19 prevention checklists for the following industries:
DECD also released the following new COVID-19 Prevention checklists:

TIMELINE UPDATES
On Tuesday, May 19, 2020, Governor Mills announced that the State is making two changes to the timeline for Restarting Maine’s Economy: 
  1. Campgrounds and RV Parks are now able to reopen to Maine residents on Friday, May 22, 2020 (previously June 1). 

  2. The reopening of indoor gyms, fitness centers, and nail salons has been delayed and will not occur June 1. The State will release further information on these businesses in early June.

Read Governor Mills’ full release HERE

Stage 1 Checklists and COVID-19 Prevention Form Available

The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) has released a COVID-19 Prevention Form, a general checklist, and industry-specific checklists for Stage 1 businesses.  

You can view the checklists and COVID-19 Prevention Form HERE
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NOTE: On the DECD checklist website it reads "In order to open, businesses must commit to complying with requirements of these checklists by filling out the short online form. Please note that licensed health care providers are not required to use this form." 

Businesses should download both the "All Businesses" General Checklist as well as their industry-specific checklist. 

More info on the Reopening Plan and Stages 1-4 can be found on the DECD "Restarting Maine’s Economy" website HERE

Governor's Phased Reopening Announcement

Tuesday, April 28, 2020, Governor Mills announced her plan for a phased reopening of Maine’s economy, easing restrictions in four stages.

Governor Mills’ plan includes a collaboration between Maine DECD and the private sector to produce COVID-19 Prevention Checklists. 

These checklists will identify best practices for each business, specific to its operations as well as general best practices related to physical distancing, hygiene, personal protection, and maintenance of clean workplaces, among others. The checklists will differ from sector to sector. 

DECD Commissioner Johnson said during the press conference that checklists for businesses included in Stage 1 will be available online by the end of the day on Wednesday, April 29, 2020. The Chamber will be distributing information on how to access these checklists as soon as they are made available. 


Stage 1 - beginning Friday, May 1,  2020: 
  • Maintains the prohibition on gatherings of more than 10 people
  • Maintains the quarantine of all people entering or returning to Maine for a period of 14 days
  • Maintains the special precautions for older Mainers and others at risk of COVID-19
  • Maintains strict requirements for long-term care facilities 
  • Calls for people who are able to work from home to continue to do so, including State employees
  • Newly requires that Maine people wear  cloth  face coverings in public settings where physical distancing measures are difficult to maintain

Stage 1 also allows for  the limited  expansion of  certain  business,  religious, and quality of life activities,  with appropriate safety precautions, including:
  • Health care from Maine-licensed providers, with recommendations that they prioritize care for patients with time-sensitive conditions; assure the safety of patients, staff, and communities; manage the use of essential resources such as personal protective equipment and testing supplies; and pace re-opening services to the level of community COVID-19 activity, maintaining capacity in our hospitals for potential outbreaks
  • Personal services: Barbershops, hair salons, and pet grooming 
  • Limited drive-in, stay-in-your-vehicle religious services  
  • Drive-in movie theaters  
  • Outdoor recreation: Guided outdoor activities (hunting & fishing) and restricted use of golf and disc golf courses  
  • State  Parks, state-owned public land trails, and historic sites;  although certain coastal State Parks will remain closed  
  • Auto dealerships and car washes 

Stage 2, beginning Monday, June 1, 2020, “contemplates revising the limitation  on gatherings from less than 10 people to less  than 50 people.” It also: 
  • Maintains the quarantine of all people entering or returning to Maine for a period of 14 days
  • Maintains the special precautions for older Mainers and others at risk of COVID-19
  • Calls for people who can work from home to continue to do so but allows for employees in certain fields to begin to reenter the office as needed, including State employees.

Stage 2 also allows for some degree of  opening  with reservations,  capacity limits, and other measures  for:  
  • Restaurants
  • Fitness and exercise centers
  • Nail technicians  
  • Retail stores for broader, in-store shopping  
  • Lodging and campgrounds for Maine residents and those who have met the 14-day quarantine requirement  
  • Day camps for Maine children and those who have met the 14-day quarantine requirement  
  • Coastal State Parks 

Stage 3, beginning Wednesday, July 1, 2020, contemplates maintaining the prohibition on gatherings of more than 50 people and the  14-day quarantine on people entering Maine. 

With appropriate safety precautions, Stage  3 would allow for some degree of  opening for:  
  • Lodging, such as hotels, campgrounds, summer camps, or RV parks for Maine residents and visitors. The Administration is currently developing guidelines to assist them in safely reopening, and reservations should not be taken until those guidelines are issued.   
  • Outdoor recreation such as charter boats and boat excursions   
  • Bars 
  • Personal services such as spas, tattoo and piercing parlors, and massage facilities, among others 

Stage 4 does not include a timeline, but it contemplates lifting restrictions and allowing all businesses and activities to resume with appropriate safety precautions.  

Cocktails, Growlers, and Curbside Best Practices

April 27, 2020: Effective immediately, the definition of beverage will include spirits-based “cocktails to go”.

The following guidelines must be followed:
  1. Cocktails must be accompanied by a food order and a sales receipt with a time stamp that indicates the time of purchase;
  2. Cocktails must be batched for immediate use or created individually as needed to fill a customer order;
  3. A container of cocktails must not exceed 4½ ounces of spirits;
  4. Cocktails must be in a tamper evident container provided by the licensees using one of the following processes, for example:
               a. Crown capped glass bottles;
               b. Screw tops like a water bottle cap that break apart when opened; or
               c. Vacuum and heat-sealed pouches

View the full memo from the Maine State Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations HERE
April 23, 2020: Effective immediately, the definition of beverage will include draft beer in “growlers to go”. 

The following guidelines must be followed:
  1. Growlers to go must be accompanied by a food order;
  2. Beer dispensed into growlers under this temporary order is limited to solely those kegs on hand at the licensed premises at the time of the Governor’s Executive Order of March 18th;
           a. The intent of this temporary order is to permit on-premises licensees to reduce existing inventory of kegs on hand since the Governor’s Order on March 18th.
  3. Growlers must conform to the requirements set forth in 28-A MRS §1355-A, sub-§3, ¶C, sub-¶¶ (2) to (8) which states generally:
    ​      a. Beer must be dispensed in growlers provided by licensees, properly sanitized and labeled with the name and ABV of the product dispensed and the name of the on-premises establishment providing the growler;
          b. Growlers must only be 32 to 64 ounces in volume;
          c. The licensees may not prefill more than 6 growlers at any one time;
         d. The licensee may charge a deposit per growler but those sold under this temporary order are not subject to the bottle redemption requirement under Title 38, chapter 33.
         e. The growler in which the beer is dispensed must be sealed by the licensee with a seal that is tamper-evident;
         f. Beer dispensed in accordance with this temporary order must be consumed off the premises;
         g. All sales of beer from the on-premises establishment for off-premises consumption must be accompanied by a sales receipt with a time stamp that indicates time of purchase.

View the full memo from the Maine State Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations HERE

Read the Maine Department of Health and Human Services and the Maine CDC's "Physical Distancing Guidance for Ordering, Pick-up and Delivery for Eating Establishments during COVID-19" HERE

Federal Legislation Funding for Small Business Loans, Hospitals, Testing

Governor Mills delivered remarks in a press conference Thursday, April 23, 2020, on her plan for a cautious, phased reopening of Maine’s economy based on public health considerations.  

The plan is based on four main points: 
  1. Protecting public health
  2. Maintaining health care readiness
  3. Building reliable and accessible testing
  4. Prioritizing public-private collaboration

In particular, Governor Mills highlighted the need for collaboration and leadership among businesses, employees, government entities, and the public as a vital part of the transition. The Chamber will continue to work with the Governor’s administration as we look to reopen Maine’s economy safely.

SHARE YOUR INPUT:

Governor Mills also launched a portal through the Department of Economic and Community Development for business owners, employees, and Maine residents to offer their ideas on restarting the economy while keeping Mainers safe and healthy. Access the portal HERE.

View the Governor’s Full Release HERE 

Governor Mills’ Stay Healthy at Home Order remains in effect through Thursday, April 30, 2020, and the Governor said her office will be reviewing the Order on a daily basis. 

Governor Mills Announces Executive Order on Evictions, Rent Relief Program

On Thursday, April 16, 2020, Governor Mills announced an executive order to prevent the immediate eviction of tenants other than those who engage in dangerous or unlawful conduct for the duration of the state of emergency.

The Governor also announced a partnership with Maine Housing for a $5 million rental assistance relief program, allowing households that meet certain income and ability-to-pay requirements to receive a one-time payment of rental assistance, up to $500, to be paid directly to their landlord. Additionally, the Governor sent a letter to financial institutions in Maine “discouraging them in the strongest terms from initiating residential and commercial foreclosures and asking them to pause any foreclosures in progress.” This letter went to both the Maine Bankers Association and the Maine Credit Union League.

A PDF of the letter can be found HERE

Governor Mills Extends Civil Emergency, Stay At Home Order Remains Unchanged

On Tuesday, April 14, 2020, Governor Mills announced she has extended the State of Civil Emergency until Friday, May 15, 2020. The original state of civil emergency was scheduled to expire today, April 15, 2020. The civil emergency extension allows Governor Mills to continue deploying all available state resources to protect the health and safety of Maine people.
This does not change the Governor’s Stay Healthy At Home Order, which is still in effect through Thursday, April 30, 2020. Any extension of the Stay Healthy At Home Order would come in a separate announcement from the Governor.

Governor Mills Announces Statewide Stay Healthy At Home Order

The Governor’s Stay Healthy at Home directive requires people living in Maine to stay at home at all times unless for an essential job or an essential personal reason, such as obtaining food, medicine, health care, or other necessary purposes. 
 
This order makes some changes to the  March 24, 2020  Executive Order, including; 
  • For essential businesses and operations that remain open, limiting the number of customers in their buildings at any one time, implementing curb-side pickup and delivery options as much as possible, and enforcing U.S. CDC-recommended physical distancing requirements for their customers and employees in and around their facilities. 
  • Prohibiting the use of public transportation unless for an essential reason or job that cannot be done from home and limiting the number of people traveling in private vehicles to persons within the immediate household unless transporting for essential activities.
  • Mandating the continued termination of classroom or other in-person instruction until at least May 1, 2020. 
  • Mandating that, when out of the home or when at work at an essential business, individuals shall maintain a minimum distance of six feet from other persons. 
 
For businesses, there are limits to the number of people allowed in a building at one time. Under the Executive order, essential stores with retail spaces of certain square footage are limited to a certain number of people in the store at one time – these limits can be found here under “Restricting Number of People in Essential Stores.” 

Additional links:

Governor Orders Travelers to Self-Quarantine, Suspends All Lodging Businesses

On Friday, April 3, 2020, Governor Mills announced an order  mandating  anyone entering Maine  to  self-quarantine for 14 days and abide by  Maine’s Stay Healthy at Home Order.  
 
Additionally, the Order instructs visitors not to travel to Maine if they are displaying symptoms of COVID-19 and advises them not to travel to Maine if they are arriving from cities or regions identified as COVID-19 hot spots.  
 
To deter travel further, the Order also suspended lodging operations, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, inns, and short-term rentals such as those available through VRBO, Airbnb, RV parks and campgrounds, and all public and private camping facilities as well as online reservations.  
 
However, the Order states that lodging can be provided for housing vulnerable populations – such as for children in emergency placements, persons at risk of domestic violence, and homeless individuals as permitted by the State – and as accommodations for health care workers or other workers deemed necessary to support public health, public safety, or critical infrastructure. 
 
This Order will remain in effect through April 30, 2020.  Read the full order HERE
 
On Monday, April 6, 2020, Commissioner Heather Johnson of Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) announced the following: 
  • Hotel owners can take online and phone reservations for May and beyond, effective immediately. 
  • April reservations can only be taken by phone for essential workers (no leisure or transient guests can stay in hotels or inns through April 30th).​
    ​
You can view a list of who is considered essential HERE.

Governor Mills Issues Executive Order Moving Primary Election to July 14

On Friday, April 10, 2020, Governor Mills issued an executive order to move Maine’s primary election from Tuesday, June 9, 2020, to Tuesday, July 14, 2020.
This executive order is intended to:
  1. Provide additional time for Maine people to request absentee ballots in order to minimize in-person interaction at the polls. Learn more about Maine absentee ballots HERE
  2. To allow the Secretary of State’s Office additional time to develop guidelines to help municipalities conduct in-person voting in as safe a manner as possible.

You can view the Governor’s Order HERE

Maine Legislature Passes Governor Mills’ Emergency COVID-19 Legislation​

On March 17, 2020, the State Legislature approved emergency legislation responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. The legislation was submitted by Governor Mills and includes, among others, the following provisions:

  • Establishing a consumer loan guarantee program through FAME, in partnership with financial institutions, to provide low- or no-interest loans for eligible people in Maine; 
  • Temporarily expanding eligibility for unemployment benefits for workers impacted by COVID-19 (see Unemployment Information section, below).
    ​
You can view the full text of the bill HERE 

City of Portland Rental Guidance

On Monday, March 23, 2020, Portland Mayor Kate Snyder announced guidance for landlords and renters. Her guidance asks landlords to halt evictions and any rent increases for 90 days and work with tenants who are unable to pay their rent due to COVID-19.  
You can learn more about the Mayor’s guidance HERE 

UNEMPLOYMENT INFORMATION

INFORMATIONAL WEBINAR:
On Wednesday, April 22, 2020, the Portland Regional Chamber and the Department of Economic Opportunity hosted a virtual presentation and live Q&A session with Maine DOL Commissioner Laura Fortman to answer questions regarding unemployment.  Watch the replay HERE

WorkShare Option Available from Maine DOL

The Maine Department of Labor continues to offer their WorkShare Program for employers who are struggling due to the pandemic but are working to ensure their staff remains employed.

WorkShare is an unemployment option that helps businesses retain their workforce during a temporary slowdown in work. The program allows employers to voluntarily reduce the hours of staff in lieu of layoffs. Employees of the business are allowed to collect a partial unemployment benefit to help them offset the loss of income.

For an employee to be eligible for the WorkShare option:
  • The reduction must be temporary and not related to a seasonal, or intermittent downturn (this includes the COVID-19 pandemic).
  • The employee's hours had to have been reduced by at least 10% but not more than 50%.
  • Have otherwise resulted in the layoff of at least 10% of the workers in the affected unit for 2-6 months.
  • Affect a unit of the business that normally works on a full-time basis.

Read more about the WorkShare program here, and check out this article from the Portland Press Herald in which Chamber CEO Quincy Hentzel is interviewed about the WorkShare Program.

Self-Employed Eligible to Apply for Unemployment Starting Friday, May 1

The Maine Department of Labor has announced they will begin accepting applications for unemployment benefits from self-employed individuals starting Friday, May 1, 2020. These benefits are known as Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). 

April 30, 2020 UPDATE: DOL Commissioner Laura Fortman confirmed that those who have previously applied for unemployment and been denied - but are now eligible for PUA benefits - do not need to reapply. Self-employed individuals who were denied will be automatically enrolled in the PUA program.

Beginning May 1st, people who have been self-employed should do the following: 
​
  1. Create a ReEmployME account HERE
  2. Verify your email address in ReEmployME – click on the Benefit Maintenance menu and follow the instructions to receive a confirming email 
  3. Sign up for direct-deposit – also through the Benefit Maintenance menu (this is faster than the debit card option) 
  4. File your PUA claim – through the Unemployment Claim menu 
  5. File your weekly certification for any previously unclaimed weeks following your initial loss of employment
  6. Continue to file your weekly certification every week

You can view the Maine DOL List of FAQs for PUA HERE 

Maine Department of Labor Releases Updated Unemployment FAQs

On Wednesday, April 22, 2020, the Maine Department of Labor released an updated list of FAQs related to Unemployment Insurance.

The FAQs include information on:
  • The Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) - the additional $600 weekly benefit which is now available
  • The soon-to-be-available Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) for self-employed individuals
  • The Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) which offers up to 13 more weeks of UI benefits

View the Updated Unemployment FAQs HERE

Maine DOL announces Federal Unemployment Expansions, Extended Hours

On Tuesday, April 14, 2020, the Maine Department of Labor (DOL) made two announcements related to the additional $600/week federal unemployment benefit included in the CARES Act and extended hours for calls.

Additional $600 Benefit:
Maine DOL announced that Mainers receiving unemployment benefits will begin to see the additional weekly $600, created by the federal CARES Act, by early next week. The additional funds will be received concurrently with the claimants’ current benefits. It will be retroactive in coordination with the enactment of the legislation and the individual’s loss of employment and will continue until July 25, 2020, if an individual remains eligible. No additional action is needed to apply for or receive the additional $600. In order to receive the $600 benefit, an individual must have an existing unemployment insurance claim, continue filing weekly certifications, and be eligible to receive benefits.

Extended Call Times:
Maine DOL has increased staffing to answer the call lines and extended the hours. The call line will now be open from 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM Monday - Friday. Online services are still available 24/7. To file, you can call 1-800-593-7660, TTY users call Maine Relay 711. The alphabetical order calling schedule is still in effect. 

More information on filing for unemployment and eligibility can be found HERE 

Unemployment Benefits for Self-Employed: 
Also included in the CARES Act, was an expansion of unemployment benefits for the self-employed, who are typically not eligible. This expansion in benefits is more complicated than adding the $600 federal benefit to those already receiving unemployment insurance. Maine DOL plans to integrate filing for newly eligible workers into its existing system, but there is no timeline for when this expansion will be ready in the state system. The Chamber will communicate any updates to our members and the community as they become available.

Updated Information From Maine DECD & Maine DOL

The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development and the Maine Department of Labor each maintain websites with additional information on COVID-19 related resources related to small business financial assistance, essential and non-essential businesses, and unemployment insurance.
​ 
These websites are continually updated and are a great resource for Maine businesses as this crisis continues. 

Information on Unemployment Insurance (UI) Temporary Flexibilities

Businesses that are temporarily closing their doors, drastically reducing services, and/or sending employees home (who are not working from home), should be clear with their employees that this is a “temporary layoff.”

Those temporarily laid-off employees are eligible to apply for Unemployment Insurance (UI) through the State by visiting www.maine.gov/unemployment and filing a claim. An employee filing for UI, in this case, WILL NOT affect the employer’s experience rating record.* The work search requirement for individuals still connected to their employer but temporarily laid off is waived for this period.

Timeline: The 1 week waiting period for UI benefit has been waived, but there is still a process that usually takes roughly 10 days.

The Maine Department of Labor is continually updating its website to reflect the most recent UI eligibility requirements. Please visit this website for more information on UI and the latest changes.

The Maine Department of Economic & Community Development is also encouraging all employers to do the following:
 
  • Sign up for the state information data exchange system, which is web-based and allows transmission. The portal can be found HERE.

  • Contact your financial institution to inquire about the possibility of receiving a loan, restructuring current loans, delaying payments, receiving information on loans for employees, and other available support.

  • Visit Maine Career Center and find your nearest center. Give them a call and they will help walk you through the programs and assistance available to you and your employees. They also have a chat function on their website. The offices are closed but the services are still available over the phone and online.

  • Email business.answers@maine.gov with additional questions.
​
From COVID Legislation FAQs (download complete FAQs HERE and below):

Q. Can an employer who needs to temporarily lay off employees because of COVID -19 continue to pay health insurance premiums for the employee during the layoff period or will that negatively impact the employees’ unemployment benefits?

A. Continuing to provide health insurance will not impact your employee’s ability to receive unemployment benefits.
covid19uilegislationfaqs2mar18__1_.pdf
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*Important Information for Employers Regarding Unemployment Insurance
The Maine Department of Labor (DOL) is in the process of updating its system in accordance with the newly passed state and federal legislation. Emergency legislation passed by the Maine State Legislature includes a provision stating that, in the case of a temporary layoff due to COVID-19, unemployment benefits paid to an individual will not be charged against the experience rating record of any employer. Due to the number of unemployment claims and the need to update the system, employers may receive paperwork that has not been updated and states their experience rating will be charged. Please know this is in error and simply a result of the need for DOL to update their systems to reflect recent emergency legislation. Please visit the Maine DOL website for the most up-to-date information

Resources Related to Health Insurance for Laid Off Employees

The Chamber recognizes that maintaining health insurance is a concern for any employee being laid off, as well as struggling employers, during this extremely challenging time for businesses. Included below are resources and information on health insurance from Maine Career Centers:

Health Care and Health Insurance is often a concern for someone who has lost a job. Consumers for Affordable Health Care is a consumer advocacy organization which can provide you with information on possible options for insurance and medical care through their ‘Helpline” at 1-800-965-7476.

Please refer to ‘Transitions’, a more comprehensive service guide (Download HERE and below).

It is also available online at www.mainecareercenter.gov. Click on the ‘Library’ tab to access ‘Transitions.’ Page 7 of this document has information on health insurance.

Additional information is available about a wide variety of state and local programs and services either online at www.maine.gov  or by phone by calling ‘211’.If you have any questions about available services, please contact your local CareerCenter.

Greater Portland Career Center
1-877-594-5627 (career center offices are closed but services are available via phone and online)
www.mainecareercenter.gov
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ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

GPCOG Micro-loan Program for Small Businesses & Non-Profits

The Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG) has launched a Rapid Response Micro-loan Program to support the region’s small businesses and nonprofits impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
You can read more about this program and apply HERE 
Qualifying businesses and organizations will be eligible for loans of up to $10,000 at 0% interest for the first two years. Portions of the loan may be forgiven if businesses meet certain requirements or participate in other GPCOG initiatives. 
A business must be within the member municipalities of the Greater Portland Council of Governments. To check whether your municipality is a member, please visit www.gpcog.org. 
Portland businesses should contact the City of Portland (or see below) to inquire about their loan programs.

City of Portland COVID-19 Financial Assistance for Businesses

On October 13, the City of Portland launched round three of emergency financial assistance with larger grants to assist small Portland businesses impacted by the pandemic
 
PORTLAND, Maine -- Round three of the City of Portland’s COVID-19 grant and loan programs are being launched today. Eligibility has been relaxed for businesses that received more than $10,000 in COVID-19 Federal or State Funding and need more assistance. Previously this made many businesses ineligible to apply. In addition, the maximum grant amounts have been increased for two of the programs. All three programs are offered to small Portland businesses that have been impacted by the pandemic. 
 
Microenterprise Grant Program (MGP) is targeted to very small businesses with 0 to one full-time employee (or two part-time employees), plus the owner. The MGP now provides grants of up to $5,000 for Portland microenterprises that operate in leased commercial space. Home-based businesses may apply for $2,500 grants.  To be eligible for this program, the business owner must be a low/moderate income individual. Those who already received a $2,500 grant from this program may apply for another $2,500 if they operate in leased commercial space and need more assistance paying rent and utilities.  These business owners can just fill out an abbreviated application at www.portlandmaine.gov/COVIDBizAssist 
 
Business Assistance Grant for Job Rehiring (COVID BAP) is now offering grants of up to $10,000 for businesses that will be rehiring employees that were on their payroll pre-pandemic. At $2,500 per full-time job (or 2 part-time jobs), a business may apply for as much as $10,000 if hiring back at least 4 full-time positions. The jobs, which must be filled by low/moderate income individuals, could include previous employees or new employees.  
 
Rapid Response Micro Loan Program (RRMP) is targeted to businesses that had two to fifteen employees just before the COVID-19 crisis and earned less than $1 million in 2019. The RRMP provides loans up to $10,000 with $5,000 forgiven if 50% of employees are retained or hired back within nine months of signing a loan agreement or six months after the applicable Stay at Home or other COVID-19 emergency orders have been lifted (relative to the borrower’s type of business), whichever comes first. The interest rate on the loan funds is 0% with a 2-year term for repayment.  Loan payments begin six months after the loan is closed.  
 
The application for all three programs can be found at www.portlandmaine.gov/COVIDBizAssist
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the funding runs out or the program sunsets on December 31, 2020, whichever comes first. 

Applications for the Rapid Response Microloan Program will be handled by the Portland Development Corporation.

Applications for the BAP for Job Creation and Microenterprise Grants will be handled by the City of Portland Economic Development Department. 

Maine Financial Assistance for Businesses and Employees

The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) and the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) are offering additional resources for businesses seeking financial assistance in response to COVID-19. 
​ 
For more information on the terms of these additional resources and how to apply:  
​ 
FAME  COVID-19 Relief Loan Programs (including programs for businesses, individuals/employees, and lenders):  
  • COVID-19 Relief Business Direct Loan Program (businesses) – APPLY HERE 
    • Loan details:  Direct Loans of up to $50,000  
    • Requirements:  Maine-based businesses experiencing interruption/hardship due to COVID-19  

  • COVID-19 Relief Interim SBA Finance Loan Program (businesses) – APPLY HERE 
    • Loan details:  Direct Loans of up to $100,000  
    • Requirements:  Available to Maine businesses who provide proof of commitment for SBA financing (loan covers the interim period between securing and receiving of funding)  

  • COVID-19 Relief Consumer Loan Program  (individuals) – LEARN MORE HERE 
    • Loan details:  No- to low-interest consumer loans through a loan guarantee program 
    • Offer  loans of up to $5,000 (minus any unemployment benefits) 
    • Borrowers may apply for up to three (3) loans, one per each 30-day period 
    • Requirements:  Interested borrowers should contact their local bank or credit union (not FAME) to see if the lender is offering this program and to apply 

NOTE:  Maine DECD is strongly encouraging businesses and consumers to contact their lending institution first before proceeding to FAME loans. For additional information: 

Grant Opportunities for Non-Profits

The Maine Association of Nonprofits (MANP) has been maintaining an extensive list of Financial Relief for Nonprofit Businesses and Employees. View that list HERE.

Looking for Ways to Help Your Community?

RESOURCES FOR MAINE'S IMMIGRANT COMMUNITY

3-19-2019_covid-19_reminder_v2[8].pdf
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COMMUNITY RESOURCES

REGIONAL RESOURCES

Maine Integrative Family Care, Grace Health, and Fulcrum Family Health have joined together to launch a physician-led small business COVID clinic, in order to:
  • Help businesses and their employees, regardless of insurance status, to continue operations and minimize sick time
  • Coordinate expedited testing (rapid testing as well as 2-3 day turnaround PCR testing)
  • Counsel businesses appropriately when an employee is sick or has a possible COVID exposure
Looking ahead to when COVID-19 restrictions are gradually reduced across the state, HospitalityMaine is encouraging hotels and restaurants to refer to their Viral Control Guidelines. These guidelines will help prepare hotels and restaurants for stringent protocols related to cleanliness, sanitation, and hygiene.
Bar Harbor Bank and Trust has created a COVID-19 Business Resource page to help customers navigate the various financial relief programs and options.
The Verrill law offices have put together a COVID-19 Resources page for employers in various industries to help you address some of the challenges you and your business may be facing. We will update this page with changes in this rapidly evolving legal and regulatory landscape. You can access that page HERE.
MaineHealth has created a "Healthy Communities: Coronavirus" website page which they will be keeping up-to-date. Access that website HERE.

Download a handy sign/graphic encouraging people to practice social distancing HERE and below.
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​Additional Regional Resources:

GENERAL COVID-19 INFORMATION

​Additional Resources
The Portland regional Chamber is committed to providing you with up-to-date information regarding this pandemic and the relief efforts available to small businesses. Choose from the menu above or scroll down for the latest developments on a city and state level. Please, do not hesitate to reach out to the Chamber with any questions or concerns.

Our 2020-21 Special Community Partners:
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Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce
NOTE: Due to COVID-19, our administrative office is closed to the public.
443 Congress Street | Portland, ME | 04101
P: 207.772.2811 | F: 207.772.1179
REMOTE HOURS: M - F 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
General Inquiries: chamber@portlandregion.com
See Staff Page for specific contact information

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