The Georgia Chamber is encouraging businesses and communities to make fact-based decisions and stay informed on COVID19. We will continually update this page with resources pertaining to COVID19.
Georgia Business Resources
Georgia Department of Labor Expanded Rules and Resources
This week, the Georgia Department of Labor has issued several new rules to support employees across our state during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Georgia Chamber will continue to work with the Department in their efforts to protect our workforce during this unprecedented time. The new rules alongside expanded user-friendly tools like the new Claims Status Dashboard and the single upload data entry for employers are crucial is this effort.
Read MoreEssential Business Guidance UPDATE and call-to-action – March 26, 2020
Earlier this week, the Georgia Chamber recommended that if your community has implemented an “Essential Business and Services Only” order that they follow the pre-approved Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) list of critical industries for national continuity. That list can be found HERE, and is intended to be overly inclusive reflecting the diversity of industries across the U.S. CISA will continually solicit and accept feedback on the list (both sectors/sub sectors and identified essential workers) and will evolve the list in response to stakeholder feedback. CISA is asking businesses to share feedback on this list so they can provide the most useful guidance to our critical infrastructure partners. Feedback can be sent to CISA.CAT@CISA.DHS.GOV.
Small Business Administration Loan Program Summary
The Small Business Administration currently has two major loan programs in response to COVID-19. A business can apply for both the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program and Paycheck Protection Program IF there are different use of proceeds for each program. Funds from these loans cannot be comingled.
Read MoreGovernor Kemp Calls on Georgia Business Community
On March 24, 2020, Governor Brian Kemp called on businesses across the Georgia to provide support to the medical community as the COVID-19 pandemic has created a sever supply shortage for our healthcare providers. Access to personal protective equipment and other supplies are in great need to continue fighting the virus.
Needed supplies include: N-95 mask, air purifying machines, face shields, hair covers, hand sanitizer, hospital beds, gloves (nitrile or latex free), negative pressure machines, no-touch thermometers (regular if no-touch are not available), safety goggles, sanitation units, sanitizing spray, sanitizing wipes, shoe covers, surgical masks, Tyvek suits, and ventilators.
The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) will be working diligently to identify distributors and manufacturers across the state who have inventory of these items or can produce, distribute, or store these critical supplies.
If your business can provide support, please fill out the form here.
To view the press release from Governor Kemp click here.
Georgia Chamber Provides Business Guidance During COVID19
Read MoreFAQs from the Department of Labor Regarding Temporary/Partial Covid-19 Related Unemployment Insurance Benefit
Read MoreSBA Conference Call UPDATE: Call Moved to Tuesday, March 31, 2020
In light of the pending U.S. Senate Bill and the latest stimulus package coming out of Congress, the Georgia Chamber and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be postponing this extremely important call, rescheduling it for TUESDAY, March 31, 2020 @ 1:00PM EST. Please make this important adjustment to your calendar and join us for an overview of this expanded strategy for economic injury disaster relief presented by SBA Regional Administrator Ashley Daniel Bell. Mr. Bell.
Due to the high-demand teleworking has placed on the conferencing industry, we have been asked to encourage as many of you as possible to join our call through your computer systems at the following link:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/8818044738
Meeting ID: 881 804 4738
Dial-in options from your mobile phone include the following lines. Should a line be busy, please try another number from this list until you are connected into the conference:
One tap mobile
+13126266799,,8818044738# US (Chicago)
+16465588656,,8818044738# US (New York)
Dial by your location
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US
+1 301 715 8592 US
Meeting ID: 881 804 4738
Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/acVyZM7Way
Questions
All questions should be submitted IN ADVANCE through www.sli.do using code #2957 to enter the forum. Please submit your questions by 5:00 PM on Monday March 30, 2020. We will work through as many as we can over the call and do appreciate your commitment to leadership as we all work toward economic recovery following this pandemic.
Essential Businesses Template Letter
With many members asking the question, “what will be categorized as essential businesses”, this letter serves as a template that businesses and local chambers can use to share with local leaders a suggested approach of how to consider this issue should the need arise.
Read MorePCMA Letter to Council of State Chambers
Read MoreMemo – Annual Meetings of Corporations and Nonprofit Corporations
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger issues memo that outlines SEC guidelines for “virtual” shareholder meetings in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
HR6201: Families First Coronavirus Response Act
HR6201 proposes many changes to increase public health measures as well as provisions that require most U.S. private employers to provide paid leave to employees under certain circumstances. While employers are responsible for funding the paid leave should it become law, employers would be able to take tax credits for the paid leave provided to employees under the FFCRA.
Read MoreGeorgia Receives SBA Statewide Disaster Declaration, Applications for Small Business Emergency Loans Now Open
Wednesday, March 18, 2020 – Governor Brian P. Kemp announced that Georgia has received an official statewide disaster declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). This declaration will provide assistance in the form of SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans to impacted small businesses in all 159 counties in Georgia.
Read MoreThe Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) has adopted an emergency Rule 300-2-4-0.5 Partial Claims, effective March 16, 2020
The rule mandates all Georgia employers to file partial claims online on behalf of their employees for any week during which an employee (full-time/part-time) works less than full-time due to a partial or total company shutdown caused by the -19 public health emergency. Any employer found to be in violation of this rule will be required to reimburse GDOL for the full amount of unemployment insurance benefits paid to the employee. Download the How Employers File Partial Claims Desk-Aid found on the GDOL Alert Page and follow the step-by-step instructions.
Filing partial claims results in your employees receiving unemployment insurance (UI) benefit payments faster, usually within 48 hours for claims filed electronically. Employees for whom you file a partial claim are NOT required to report to a Georgia Department of Labor career center, register for employment services, or look for other work.
Please continue to monitor our website at georgia.dol.gov for any updates to these guidelines.
goBeyondProfit encourages Business-to-Business support through Corporate Generosity during COVID-19 Crisis
Response to COVID-19 requires rapid decision-making and communication on the issues stressing business, people and communities. Now more than ever, visible corporate generosity will ease discomfort and engender loyalty for the long-term.
We are here to help – partnering with goBeyondProfit to provide resources you need as well as visibility employees and customers will see and value. As a member of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, we are making goBeyondProfit benefits immediately available to you at no-cost.
For instance, this quick reference Georgia Businesses Respond to the Coronavirus.
As well as upcoming tools to help business leaders learn from one another, such as:
- Georgia Corporate Generosity Report. Data to help you demonstrate exceptional corporate character
- The goBeyondProfit Podcast. Timely interviews with Georgia CEOs
- Virtual CEO Power Chats. Conversations with an opportunity to ask specific questions
It’s more important than ever that your people see your corporate citizenship in action. goBeyondProfit recognizes Georgia companies working to improve people’s lives – with local ads, statewide directories, social shout outs and a digital badge to help Georgians know you care.
As we work together to ensure thriving businesses and communities, we hope you will enjoy activating goBeyondProfit benefits at no-cost.
Coronavirus in the Workplace AND Families First Coronavirus Response Act
Because you are a member of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, you have access to hrsimple’s employer’s guide to coronavirus in the workplace webinar. This presentation will provide detailed guidance on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which will impose sweeping changes to an employer’s obligations in the face of the COVID-19 national emergency, including a new paid sick leave mandate, an expansion of the Family and Medical Leave Act that includes a separate paid leave mandate, and tax credits for employers to cover the cost of such leave.
Congress Makes Significant Changes to Proposed FMLA and Sick Leave Requirements in COVID-19 Bill
Yesterday evening the U.S. House passed legislation to amend the bill it passed early Saturday morning regarding COVID-19. The new bill makes significant changes to that which was originally passed, including changes to emergency FMLA leave, and emergency paid sick leave. These amendments are summarized in the below ASAP.
Learn MoreChamber Bulletins & PR
Non-profit business organizations across Georgia urge the inclusion of 501(c)6 entities within the emergency assistance legislation for COVID-19
On behalf of the statewide business community, the undersigned organizations urge you to support including all nonprofit organizations (including but not limited to 501c6 and 501c3) within the emergency assistance legislation considered by Congress to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read MoreLETTER TO GMA – Consistent Designation of Essential Critical Infrastructure Worker Recommendations
March 24, 2020
The Georgia Chamber thanks the Georgia Municipal Association for its steadfast leadership of the state’s local communities as we seek to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and secure Georgia’s future. The state’s business community stands firm in its commitment to be a trusted partner as we all navigate this time of uncertainty. Recently, one of the most frequent questions the Chamber has received from employers is what will be categorized as “essential businesses”. This letter shares a suggested approach of how to consider this issue should the need arise.
Read MoreLETTER TO ACCG – – Consistent Designation of Essential Critical Infrastructure Worker Recommendations
March 24, 2020
The Georgia Chamber thanks the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia for its steadfast leadership of the state’s counties as we seek to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and secure Georgia’s future. The state’s business community stands firm in its commitment to be a trusted partner as we all navigate this time of uncertainty. Recently, one of the most frequent questions the Chamber has received from employers is what will be categorized as “essential businesses”. This letter shares a suggested approach of how to consider this issue should the need arise.
Read MoreGeorgia Chamber Suggests Broadest Definition for “Essential Business”
March 24, 2020
The Georgia Chamber appreciates the leadership of Governor Kemp and the Administration to address these challenging times both on the health care front as well as from an economic perspective. The designation of an “essential business” will substantially impact how our state is able to weather this crisis in the short and long term. A letter from the Chamber along with associated documentation from the U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) shares a suggested approach of how to consider this issue should the need arise.
State Chambers of Commerce Urge You to Secure America’s Future Now
March 23, 2020
As leaders of America’s business community, the Council of State Chambers of Commerce urges you to unite today and pass bipartisan legislation that keeps our economy intact, protects our American way of life, and prevents the imminent shedding of millions of jobs.
Read MoreBe wary of emails that direct you to COVID-19-related websites
March 23, 2020
Read MoreCOVID-19 and Economic Recovery: The Chamber’s Role
March 18, 2020
For over 400 years, chambers of commerce around the world have been champions of free enterprise, job creation and community response. In unsteady economic times throughout history, chambers have organized the troops, raised funds for war efforts, coordinated disaster response, been the voice of progress during civil unrest, lobbied for economic relief measures and have served so many other local and regional business purposes. COVID-19 is no different and, during this national healthcare crisis, the collective chamber community across the world is leading the charge in driving plans for business preparedness during the pandemic and the economic recovery and growth that must follow. We acknowledge that our travel, hospitality, healthcare, insurance, retail and service industries have been hit hard by this economic downturn and we are working around the clock to support them and others. So, how do we, as business networking organizations, do this in a time when “networking” is scarcely possible? Here are some ways in which Chambers should lead the business community in planning and preparing for economic recovery.
Learn MoreGeorgia Chamber COVID19 Update
March 16, 2020
To all Chamber members:
The Georgia Chamber of Commerce and our Board of Directors take the health and safety of our communities very seriously. We are actively monitoring the situation regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) and are in communication with federal, state and local health officials.
With the growing number of cases confirmed in Georgia, it is prudent that we be prepared and ready to deal with the situation equipped with the facts. While there is still much to learn about this virus, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Georgia Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS) are all excellent resources that businesses and families can turn to when looking for more information on the virus.
Beginning Monday, March 16, Chamber staff will be working remotely; therefore our office building will be closed to all visitors. In addition, all external Chamber membership meetings and programs are POSTPONED through mid-April. We will continue to assess internal operations on a weekly basis and will work to reschedule external meetings in the late summer and early fall of 2020. The bottom line, however, is that Georgia is still open for business, although we must be diligent to do our part in “flattening the curve” and mitigate the rate at which this virus is spreading. In doing so, we will be assisting our healthcare systems, first responders and emergency medical personnel in doing their jobs consistently and effectively.
The safety of our community, membership, and staff is the top priority for the Chamber, and we will continue to monitor the ever-changing situation and be providing additional information and resources on our dedicated webpage, www.gachamber.com/covid19.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if we can provide further resources for you during this time. Together we will get through this challenge.
Georgia Chamber hosts Conference Call on COVID19
Posted: March 13, 2020
The Georgia Chamber hosted a member-wide press conference call that drew 1,000 participants to hear national and state experts in healthcare, business and the chamber industry share the latest information regarding COVID-19. Georgia businesses and local communities were encouraged to follow the leadership of Governor Kemp and his teams while continuing to make fact-based decisions related to individual operations.
“The Georgia Chamber is fully supporting state leadership on the COVID-19 global health challenge and we encourage everyone to do the same for the well-being of our citizens and our economy,” said Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber. “Georgia still remains open for business and is following the expert recommendations of state and national organizations to make informed decisions for local businesses and communities.”
Read More HereCOVID19 Updates
Posted: March 13, 2020
The Georgia Chamber supports the Governor’s Office and teams on encouraging Georgia businesses to make fact-based decisions and to stay updated regarding COVID-19.
For factual resources during this global health concern, please review the following links:
- Video message from Georgia Chamber President & CEO Chris Clark
- Latest news on COVID19 in Georgia from the Governor’s Office
- View the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Coronavirus resource page
- View the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention webpage for businesses: Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019, Feb 2020.
- Sign up for CDC.gov email updates
- Watch a webinar with discussion from Dr. Nancy Messonnier, staff lead for the CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases
- Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) webpage: https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus
- U.S. Travel Association webpage: https://www.ustravel.org/toolkit/emergency-preparedness-and-response-coronavirus-covid-19
- Governor’s Office Press Page: https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases
Georgia Chamber Updates Businesses and Local Communities on COVID-19
Posted: March 11, 2020
As part of its continued strategy to support a strong economy, the Georgia Chamber – together with SMART healthcare plan partner Anthem – announces that the leading healthcare insurance company will waive member costs for COVID-19 testing.
Read MoreYou are Invited: Please participate on this Chamber-hosted conference call as experts share the latest on COVID19
Posted: March 10, 2020
As we move forward, the Georgia Chamber – in partnership with the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce – will be holding a member-wide conference call to share the latest news and recommendations on COVID19 business strategies. The call will be held at 3:00PM on Thursday, March 12, 2020. Speakers will include experts from Aflac Inc., Georgia Public Health and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Read MoreBusiness Intelligence Bulletin – COVID19 Update
Posted: March 5, 2020
To read our Business Intelligence Bulletin addressing COVID19 and view a brief video message from President & CEO Chris Clark, please visit the link below.
Read MoreQuick Polls
QUICK POLL: COVID-19 and Georgia’s Manufacturing Industry
Posted: March 20, 2020
The Georgia Chamber is conducting a quick poll of Georgia Manufacturers and the impact that COVID-19 is producing within this vital, job-leading industry for the state. Please click on the link below to answer four (4) simple questions that will provide us with insights that we can use to deliver relevant information and resources during this economic challenge. Thank you for all you do for the state of Georgia!
Take Poll HereQUICK POLL: COVID19 and Your Business Pt.2
Posted: March 16, 2020
Members and Partners:
As the Georgia Chamber continues to serve its community with relevant and timely resources as well as up-to-date access to information, it is important to continue the information sharing for best practices on how to effectively manage operations during this COVID-19 global health challenge.
We have put together another mini-survey and would ask that you take 2 minutes to answer the following questions to help us provide you with real, on-the-ground support through information on how to weather this hard-hitting economic challenge.
Take Survey NowQUICK POLL: COVID19 and Your Business
Posted: March 10, 2020
The Georgia Chamber is conducting a quick poll of its members to gather information on how businesses and local communities are developing strategies to effectively manage COVID19. We would like to invite you to participate in this brief, two-question poll, to help chambers and businesses across Georgia learn from one another and be better informed during this global health issue. Please take a moment to answer these simple questions.
Take Poll Here