News

Coronavirus Government Response Update—New Infographic Highlights Clean Start Tax Credit

Welcome to the Coronavirus Government Response Update. This information is intended to keep ISSA members up to date on fast-moving government affairs related to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as other public policy issues important to the cleaning industry. Today’s update touches on a new ISSA infographic, expanding the tax credit for businesses retaining workers, U.S. Senators holding up passage of the Small Business Administration (SBA) loan program tweaks, and more.

ISSA Infographic Highlights Need for Clean Start Tax Credit
ISSA created an infographic to highlight the need for and benefits of the Clean Start: Back to Work Tax Credit as the tax credit continues to build momentum in Congress. The graphic, which includes an estimated cost-breakdown to clean a retail space pre- and post-COVID-19, provides a clear visual representation of how the credit would help businesses protect worker and customer health and safety.

Bipartisan Support for Expanding Tax Credit to Businesses Retaining Workers
Both Republican and Democratic lawmakers have expressed interest in expanding a tax credit designed to help keep workers connected to their jobs, a sign the idea could find its way into the next coronavirus relief package. For much of the pandemic, certain businesses have been eligible to take advantage of a payroll tax credit of up to US$5,000 per employee for wages and health care benefits paid through the end of the year. Lawmakers are now suggesting proposals to increase the amount of the credit and make other changes to keep more workers connected to their employers.

Two Senators Hold up Passage of SBA Loan Program Tweaks
Two Republicans are threatening to prevent speedy passage of a bill that would modify a popular coronavirus loan program for small businesses. Sens. Mike Lee of Utah and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin are holding up a bill designed to make the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) more flexible (HR 7010) because they want the program to expire in August instead of December, according to Senate Small Business Chairman Marco Rubio, R-Fla. By preventing quick passage via unanimous consent, Lee and Johnson would force Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., to spend floor time on the measure, something he traditionally is reluctant to do.

Other links of interest

• Take Action Now–Urge Your Elected Officials to Support Clean Start Tax Credit
• ISSA Webinar Recording – Legislative Update: COVID-19 and the Cleaning Industry (May 26, 2020; available to ISSA members only)
• ISSA Coronavirus Government Response FAQ
• EPA Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Coronavirus Resources