(Source: MIRS.news, Published 04/04/2024) Gov. Gretchen Whitmer sent a letter to Congress, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Small Business Administration asking for more ways to help winter businesses impacted by the lack of snow.
The letter cites the cancelation of three dog sled races in the Upper Peninsula, the 16 percent coverage of ice on the Great Lakes this winter and the record high February temperatures that have cost millions from snow sports in the state.
“I appreciate the federal government working with us to deliver financial relief to businesses in 43 counties around the state. However, this solution left out many counties that truly need assistance, which is why I’m asking the federal government to create new paths of federal relief for all impacted,” Whitmer said.
Whitmer said in March there was an ongoing drought across the state of Michigan, which allowed for the 43 counties to apply for federal aid from the Small Business Administration.
The Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loans could be for up to $2 million to help with operating expenses and obligations. The businesses would pay no interest on the loan for the first year and 4 percent for the rest of the loan. The Michigan Small Business Development Center could also assist with the loan application. Most businesses in affected counties would have until Sept. 26 to apply, except Dickinson, which has until Nov. 27.
Whitmer also announced that Houghton County would have until Dec. 26, but those would only cover business impacts that happened from Feb. 20 and after.
“Michiganders are used to tough winters, but this year’s record-setting warm winter has been tough in a different way, causing economic hardships for small businesses and regional economies that rely on snow,” Whitmer said.
