Tester supports small businesses

Almost 23,000 small businesses in our state received a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan to help combat the COVID-19 pandemic and keep workers employed while they navigate these uncertain times. The loans have been extremely beneficial in keeping our economy moving, but with no end in sight from this virus, our elected officials must continue working to help small businesses survive.

A new bipartisan bill in Congress called the Paycheck Protection Small Business Forgiveness Act would provide small businesses in Montana with significant relief. The legislation will forgive PPP loans less than $150,000 and give business owners the opportunity to focus their time and effort on recovering from COVID-19’s impact while also stimulating local economies. This legislation is simple, smart, and has the capability to help millions of Americans.

Sen. Jon Tester has been a strong advocate for small businesses in Montana and has lent his support specifically to PPP legislation throughout the pandemic. Now more than ever, small businesses need the leadership and support from lawmakers like Senator Tester to get the job done. It would be great to see him support the Paycheck Protection Small Business Forgiveness Act.

Steve Waatti, Whitefish