Working for Illinois Caucus

GURNEE – As small businesses grapple with changes in operation due to the COVID-19 outbreak, state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, is encouraging residents to shop locally.

“The economic downturn caused by COVID-19 is taking a particularly hard toll on our small businesses. Unlike national chains, local businesses often operate on much tighter budgets that can make it difficult for them to weather unforeseen financial hardships,” Mason said. “Even though you may not be able to visit your favorite stores in person, there are plenty of safe ways to continue supporting them. Many restaurants have adopted curbside pickup or no-contact delivery, and many nonessential businesses have the option to purchase a gift card online. All of these methods of service are in compliance with social distancing guidelines and are great ways to continue spending money at places you enjoy.”

Gov. JB Pritzker’s stay-at-home order has been extended to April 30.

“Remember to be patient and understanding as service industry workers adjust to these new circumstances,” Mason said. “These individuals are on the front lines of this pandemic, and we owe it to them to help keep them safe by making sure we’re physically healthy and practicing good hygiene before interacting with them.”

ROUND LAKE BEACH –�In response to the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, is highlighting the new disaster relief loans offered by the U.S. Small Business Administration to relieve the economic impact facing small businesses.

“With so many of our local small businesses hurting during this crisis, we need to make sure we are taking advantage of every resource available to help them stay afloat,” Yingling said in a news release.

The SBA is providing low-interest, long-term loans to assist small businesses during the pandemic. These loans can be up to $2 million for as long as 30 years, with rates at 3.75% for small businesses and 2.75% for nonprofits. More information and application forms can be found at�www.sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources.

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OTTAWA — State Rep. Lance Yednock (D-Ottawa) is directing residents who have been recently laid off due to COVID-19 to apply for unemployment benefits through the Illinois Department of Employment Security and offering assistance from his office to those who need help navigating the unemployment process.

“Unfortunately, the temporary business closures and additional strain the virus has placed on small businesses across the state have left many Illinoisans without work,” said Yednock. “The state is taking action, doing what is necessary to aid families and businesses of our communities during this difficult time for many people in Illinois and across the country.”

SPRINGFIELD –�In an effort to preserve the health and well-being of the community, state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, is working to connect residents and small-business owners with resources during the closure of restaurants and other establishments.

Yingling is highlighting programs that provide relief to residents without access to paid sick leave or unable to work due to coronavirus closures, such as unemployment insurance through the Illinois Department of Employment Security.

“If you’re a small-business owner and you have any questions or need assistance during these business closures, reach out to me at repsamyingling@gmail.com, and I will keep you updated with available resources as soon as more information becomes available,” Yingling said.