A Chamber Advisory provides you a heads‐up about an important matter. Information generally deals with pending governmental rules and regulations, ballot initiatives, or a Chamber position statement.
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CHAMBER ADVISORY
05/06/21
RE: Small Business Would Be Hit Hard by Corporate Tax Increase
About the Author Curtis Dubay. Senior Economist, U.S Chamber of Commerce. Curtis Dubay is Senior Economist, Economic Policy Division at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. He heads the Chamber’s research on the U.S. and global economies. Mr. Dubay will be the featured guest at the Surprise Regional Chambers' Annual Economic Update on June 18, 2021
Congress is considering raising the corporate income tax rate from 21 percent to 28 percent. Many assume that only big businesses will pay this higher rate. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. In fact, over a million small businesses—those “Mom-and-Pop” retailers, small manufacturers, and professional services firms that often suffered the worst during the pandemic—would also see their tax bills increase significantly. In turn, this would have a negative impact on small businesses’ investment and growth plans and, most critically, hiring and job creation.
There are 1.4 million small businesses (those with 500 employees or less) officially organized as C-Corporations, which means they would pay this higher rate. These small businesses employ almost 13 million American workers across various sectors.
1.4 MILLION SMALL BUSINESSES, EMPLOYING ALMOST 13 MILLION AMERICANS, WOULD PAY THE HIGHER TAX RATE
Hardest hit would be the sort of skilled jobs that politicians love to praise, but often in practice, do too little to support. Manufacturing small business C-Corps employ the most workers out of the group (1.8 million workers). Professional, scientific, and technical services are next (employing 1.3 million), followed by retail (employing 1.2 million).
Most C-Corporations are small businesses and many are very small: over 84% of C-corps have fewer than 20 employees. Small business owner, Michael Canty, is the President of Ohio-based Alloy Precision Technologies, a manufacturing company that employs roughly 85 people and is structured as a C-Corp under the federal tax code. His business would be hit hard by the proposed increase under Biden’s tax plan. Canty warned that the proposed tax increase would make companies like his less competitive in the global marketplace.
"We have already started a hiring freeze. Between the tax increase and what we see as a tough regulatory environment, we have to prepare," Canty said.
Furthermore, small businesses organized as C-Corps are spread across all industries. Retail trade (179,000) has the most businesses. This is followed by professional, scientific, and technical services firms (175,000); real estate, rental and leasing (148,000); and construction companies (140,000).
See the chart below on how how C-Corporations breakdown by small business sector
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 lowered the corporate rate from 35 percent to its current 21 percent level. It helped spur growth and investment by these 1.4 million C-corporation small businesses—allowing them to grow when the time was right and to save up and weather the storm when the pandemic struck.
Many of these small businesses are just now beginning to return to normalcy: According to the latest MetLife & U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Index, 59% of small businesses believe it will take more than six months to return to normal. Suddenly—and substantially—raising their taxes is one sure way to stop the recovery’s momentum dead in its tracks.
This would be the highest corporate tax rate in the industrialized world and would put U.S. businesses (large AND small) at a severe competitive disadvantage with other technologically-advanced and savvy counterparts across the globe. Higher rates on over a million small businesses would suppress wage growth and job creation for American workers—at a time when one of the few things we can all agree on is the need to strengthen the middle class and create more higher-paying jobs here at home.
The strong economic growth and sharp wage increases for the lowest-earning workers prior to the pandemic were proof the lower tax rate was working as envisioned. Small businesses were a key contributor to this growth. Raising the corporate tax rate would undo the progress made and threaten the strong foundations of this recovery. Let’s keep corporate tax rates where they are, so America’s small businesses can continue to prosper and create the growth and jobs this country needs to keep this recovery going.
How C-Corporations breakdown by small business sector
CHAMBER ADVISORY
03/31/21
RE: Congress to impose a Financial Transaction Tax (FTT), a sweeping tax on financial trades of all kinds, such as trades of stocks, bonds, and derivatives.
Summary:
A Financial Transaction Tax is a Tax on Main Street, and Americans Overwhelmingly Oppose It.
Over the last couple months, we have seen renewed calls for Congress to impose a Financial Transaction Tax (FTT), a sweeping tax on financial trades of all kinds, such as trades of stocks, bonds, and derivatives.
What happened:
During a recent Capitol Hill hearing some said that an FTT is an idea whose time has come. The Chamber strongly disagrees with that notion, particularly since the U.S. already lived through an unfortunate experience with an FTT from 1914 until it was repealed in 1965 in an overwhelming bipartisan vote by a Democratic Congress.
Why it matters:
Bringing back an FTT would be a huge mistake for Main Street, consumers, taxpayers, retirees, states, and localities. Democratic and Republican voters understand that an FTT does more harm than good, particularly when they consider the other policy priorities where Congress can make a difference. The money collected by an FTT comes at the expense of money that would go to saving for retirement, a first home, or a child’s education.
Strong opposition:
According to a recent poll conducted by the Chamber’s Center for Capital Markets Competitiveness (CCMC), a majority of Americans (63%) are deeply concerned and opposed to proposals to re-impose an FTT. Moreover, a majority of the voters CCMC surveyed believe an FTT would undermine pressing policy priorities, particularly the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic as government’s top priority.
What we’re doing:
The Chamber has consistently opposed efforts to impose an FTT and will continue to be a vocal advocate against this policy. Through our advocacy efforts and broader communications campaign, we will encourage policymakers to stand in bipartisan opposition to an FTT and focus on rebuilding the U.S. economy and reviving American jobs from the effects of the pandemic.
Dig deeper:
- Learn more about CCMC’s recent poll.
- Read CCMC’s 2019 report on FTTs.
—Tom Quaadman, Executive Vice President, Center for Capital Markets Competitiveness, U.S. Chamber of Commerce
CHAMBER ADVISORY
Released to Chamber Restaurant Members on 03/11/21
Recovery Package Big Win for Restaurants: Take Steps Now
Thank you to those businesses who have used our Legislative Action Alerts to express the importance of financial aid to help small businesses. Having local businesses get involved in communication with our elected officials makes a difference!
Restaurants devastated by the coronavirus outbreak are now getting a lifeline from the pandemic relief package!
Below is what the Chamber knows so far about the Restaurant Relief Fund. More details will be coming out soon:
Action Steps To Take Now If You Are Thinking About Applying:
PS: There is still talk at the State legislature about dramatically increasing your unemployment insurance rates!
Please sign our One-Click Letter Now.
Grant Details:
A landmark COVID-relief bill earmarking $28.6 billion in direct aid to restaurants will become law!
Restaurants got the biggest share of direct help: $28.6 billion in grants for restaurants whose revenue fell in 2020 as a result of the pandemic.
The bill calls for grants equal to the amount of restaurants’ revenue losses, up to a maximum of $10 million per company and $5 million per location.
Eligible companies cannot own more than 20 locations, and they can’t be publicly traded. The bill sets aside $5 billion for the smallest restaurants, those whose annual revenue is $500,000 or less.
“It’s going to keep doors open. The smallest and hardest hit are going to get the help they’ve needed the most,” said Sean Kennedy, an executive vice president at the group.
Restaurants were decimated by the pandemic that led to government-ordered shutdowns and that is still keeping many diners away. As of Dec. 1, over 110,000 U.S. restaurants were closed either temporarily or permanently, according to the National Restaurant Association. That’s 17% of the number of restaurants in business before the pandemic. In January, industry-wide revenue was down more than 16% from a year earlier, the group said.
Small business advocates were pleased with the overall bill and said the $1,400 stimulus payments to individuals and families as well as continued unemployment benefits will give consumers more money they can spend at small businesses.
Anytime you’re putting money in the hands of consumers, regardless of how it gets there, it helps small businesses.
Congress added more than $7 billion to the $800 billion allotted to the latest round of the PPP that began Jan. 11. The Small Business Administration has approved about $680 billion in loans so far during this round, and a total of $1.2 trillion since April.
Released to Chamber Restaurant Members on 03/11/21
Recovery Package Big Win for Restaurants: Take Steps Now
Thank you to those businesses who have used our Legislative Action Alerts to express the importance of financial aid to help small businesses. Having local businesses get involved in communication with our elected officials makes a difference!
Restaurants devastated by the coronavirus outbreak are now getting a lifeline from the pandemic relief package!
Below is what the Chamber knows so far about the Restaurant Relief Fund. More details will be coming out soon:
- The grant will be administered by the SBA, not banks like PPP (this will speed up the process)
- $5 Billion set aside for small businesses with less than $500K in annual sales
- Restaurants, bars, taverns, and food trucks are eligible.
- Franchise owners are eligible to apply.
- Minority, veteran, and women-owned business will get the first option to apply (10-14 day prior to other businesses)
- Who is not eligible: Businesses with more than 20 locations, publicly-traded food establishments
Action Steps To Take Now If You Are Thinking About Applying:
- Get a Duns Number, it is free and you will need it for your grant application (may take 2-3 days)
- Get a SAM # it is free and may take 2 weeks to receive. This will be required on your application
- Gather financial statements from 2019 and 2020 (application will be asking questions about income loss)
PS: There is still talk at the State legislature about dramatically increasing your unemployment insurance rates!
Please sign our One-Click Letter Now.
Grant Details:
A landmark COVID-relief bill earmarking $28.6 billion in direct aid to restaurants will become law!
Restaurants got the biggest share of direct help: $28.6 billion in grants for restaurants whose revenue fell in 2020 as a result of the pandemic.
The bill calls for grants equal to the amount of restaurants’ revenue losses, up to a maximum of $10 million per company and $5 million per location.
Eligible companies cannot own more than 20 locations, and they can’t be publicly traded. The bill sets aside $5 billion for the smallest restaurants, those whose annual revenue is $500,000 or less.
“It’s going to keep doors open. The smallest and hardest hit are going to get the help they’ve needed the most,” said Sean Kennedy, an executive vice president at the group.
Restaurants were decimated by the pandemic that led to government-ordered shutdowns and that is still keeping many diners away. As of Dec. 1, over 110,000 U.S. restaurants were closed either temporarily or permanently, according to the National Restaurant Association. That’s 17% of the number of restaurants in business before the pandemic. In January, industry-wide revenue was down more than 16% from a year earlier, the group said.
Small business advocates were pleased with the overall bill and said the $1,400 stimulus payments to individuals and families as well as continued unemployment benefits will give consumers more money they can spend at small businesses.
Anytime you’re putting money in the hands of consumers, regardless of how it gets there, it helps small businesses.
Congress added more than $7 billion to the $800 billion allotted to the latest round of the PPP that began Jan. 11. The Small Business Administration has approved about $680 billion in loans so far during this round, and a total of $1.2 trillion since April.
Chamber Advisory
Legalization of Recreational Marijuana: Employers Still Have Rights
Summary
After a failed attempt at adult use legalization in 2016, voters passed Proposition 207 — also known as the Smart and Safe Act — which permits the possession and use of marijuana for adults ages 21 years or older and permits individuals to grow up to six marijuana plants in their residences and consume pot free of criminal ramifications. While our Chamber, as well numerous business, civic, social, and religious organizations opposed the intianive, it will become law. We must now ensure that local and state rules, ordinances and regulations are drafted in a way to protect the interests of the community and employers.
With the passage of Prop. 207 Arizona residents — 21 years or better — will be able to:
Employers Still Have Rights
The new law does not restrict the rights of companies to maintain a drug-free workplace or establish workplace policies restricting the use of marijuana by employees or prospective employees. See Section 36-2851(2).
Details:
Although it is difficult to predict how a court would interpret the law the Smart and Safe Arizona Act appears to preserve employers’ ability to maintain and enforce zero-tolerance drug-free workplace policies. Expect more information and final draft state rules and regulations in 2021.
Effective Date
The state’s Constitution declares it will take effect as soon as all the votes have been counted and certified. Governor Doug Ducey would then issue a proclamation that officially makes the ballot measure a new law. The state’s Constitution also keeps voter-approved initiatives — such as Prop 207 — from ever being edited (including loopholes and omissions) or being updated in the future by the Legislature or the governor.
Where Will The Taxes Go?
These monies would be deposited into the Smart and Safe Arizona Fund (SSAF). SSAF monies would first be used to pay administrative costs of certain agencies.
Contrary to some of the commercial ads that ran in support of Prop. 207, only a portion of the taxes will support education.
The remainder of these monies would then be distributed as follows:
Local and State Taxes
The regular sales tax would apply to recreational marijuana purchases. Annual state and local sales tax collections on these purchases may reach $88 million in the next several years. These monies would be available for general use.
Legalization of Recreational Marijuana: Employers Still Have Rights
Summary
After a failed attempt at adult use legalization in 2016, voters passed Proposition 207 — also known as the Smart and Safe Act — which permits the possession and use of marijuana for adults ages 21 years or older and permits individuals to grow up to six marijuana plants in their residences and consume pot free of criminal ramifications. While our Chamber, as well numerous business, civic, social, and religious organizations opposed the intianive, it will become law. We must now ensure that local and state rules, ordinances and regulations are drafted in a way to protect the interests of the community and employers.
With the passage of Prop. 207 Arizona residents — 21 years or better — will be able to:
- Possess use and cultivate marijuana;
- Amend criminal penalties for possession;
- Impose a 16% excise tax on all sales to fund public programs;
- Enacts local regulation of marijuana licensees; and
- Allows the expunge process of marijuana offenses.
Employers Still Have Rights
The new law does not restrict the rights of companies to maintain a drug-free workplace or establish workplace policies restricting the use of marijuana by employees or prospective employees. See Section 36-2851(2).
Details:
- “Does not restrict the rights of employers to maintain a drug-and-alcohol free workplace or affect the ability of employers to have workplace policies restricting the use of marijuana by employees or prospective employees.” Section 36-2851(1).
- “Does not require an employer to allow or accommodate the use, consumption, possession, transfer, display, transportation, sale or cultivation of marijuana in a place of employment.” Section 36-2851(2).
- “Does not restrict the rights of employers … to prohibit or regulate conduct otherwise allowed by this chapter when such conduct occurs on or in their properties.” Section 36-2851(6).
Although it is difficult to predict how a court would interpret the law the Smart and Safe Arizona Act appears to preserve employers’ ability to maintain and enforce zero-tolerance drug-free workplace policies. Expect more information and final draft state rules and regulations in 2021.
Effective Date
The state’s Constitution declares it will take effect as soon as all the votes have been counted and certified. Governor Doug Ducey would then issue a proclamation that officially makes the ballot measure a new law. The state’s Constitution also keeps voter-approved initiatives — such as Prop 207 — from ever being edited (including loopholes and omissions) or being updated in the future by the Legislature or the governor.
Where Will The Taxes Go?
These monies would be deposited into the Smart and Safe Arizona Fund (SSAF). SSAF monies would first be used to pay administrative costs of certain agencies.
Contrary to some of the commercial ads that ran in support of Prop. 207, only a portion of the taxes will support education.
The remainder of these monies would then be distributed as follows:
- 33.0% to community colleges
- 31.4% to local law enforcement and fire departments
- 25.4% to the state and local transportation programs
- 10.0% to public health and criminal justice programs
- 0.2% to the Attorney General for enforcement.
Local and State Taxes
The regular sales tax would apply to recreational marijuana purchases. Annual state and local sales tax collections on these purchases may reach $88 million in the next several years. These monies would be available for general use.
ADVISORY:
(Reminder)
Vote NO on Prop 207 (Recreational Pot)
Recreational Marijuana (pot) does nothing help attract economic development, leads to more drug abuse, especially among teens and children. This issue is best dealt with by our state legislature, not a ballot initiative.
The Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce is against the Proposition 207 to legalize recreational marijuana.
The main worry that legalizing the drug for recreational purposes would lead to more drug abuse, especially among teens and children. Plus, the proposition does nothing to help attract economic development to our area. Thirdly, issues such as this are best vetted by our state legislature, said Raoul Sada President and CEO of the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Arizona leaders, citizens and community stakeholders have worked for years to make the Sunshine State a world-class location to start or run a business, a family-friendly destination for tourism, and a desirable place to raise a family or retire,” said Sada.
Mr. Herring, the Public Policy Chairperson for the Chamber said “No credible economic development organization would tout marijuana legalization as a reason to locate to Arizona or the NW Valley! Legalization sends the wrong message to the companies we want to grow and move here."
"On the public health side, our region/state faces increased rates of addiction and the costs that come with drug treatment, rehabilitation and law enforcement. The negative consequences that could result from legalization on our business environment and the public’s health, far exceed any benefits”, said Herring.
Have a Legislative Issue or Comment? Tell Us Your Thoughts! Click Here
Arizona Chamber of Commerce Weighs-In
"Passing pot legalization via the ballot box is rife with potentially dangerous consequences," said Garrick Taylor, senior vice president of government relations for the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
The Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry said it was opposes the legalization efforts. The chamber worries about legalized pot resulting in more workplace injuries and workers compensation claims.
The Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry will oppose any such legalization efforts. We arrived at our decision after careful consideration of the experiences of other states that have legalized marijuana, the arguments of proponents and research by our foundation.
Given the enormity of the consequences, the Legislature would be a better venue for debate. Legalization is not an issue that should be decided at the ballot box, where, if passed, it will be essentially carved in stone.
Proposition 105, Arizona’s Voter Protection law, which was passed in 1998, severely limits the ability of the Legislature to reverse or alter a voter-passed measure. With legalization experiments in other states still very much in their infancy, we should proceed with extreme caution before we pass a new law by initiative that will be difficult to ever change or undo.
There will always be individuals who want to get high, and many will figure out a way to do so. But Arizona should not calibrate a sweeping, untested public policy effort around them.
(Reminder)
Vote NO on Prop 207 (Recreational Pot)
Recreational Marijuana (pot) does nothing help attract economic development, leads to more drug abuse, especially among teens and children. This issue is best dealt with by our state legislature, not a ballot initiative.
The Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce is against the Proposition 207 to legalize recreational marijuana.
The main worry that legalizing the drug for recreational purposes would lead to more drug abuse, especially among teens and children. Plus, the proposition does nothing to help attract economic development to our area. Thirdly, issues such as this are best vetted by our state legislature, said Raoul Sada President and CEO of the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Arizona leaders, citizens and community stakeholders have worked for years to make the Sunshine State a world-class location to start or run a business, a family-friendly destination for tourism, and a desirable place to raise a family or retire,” said Sada.
Mr. Herring, the Public Policy Chairperson for the Chamber said “No credible economic development organization would tout marijuana legalization as a reason to locate to Arizona or the NW Valley! Legalization sends the wrong message to the companies we want to grow and move here."
"On the public health side, our region/state faces increased rates of addiction and the costs that come with drug treatment, rehabilitation and law enforcement. The negative consequences that could result from legalization on our business environment and the public’s health, far exceed any benefits”, said Herring.
Have a Legislative Issue or Comment? Tell Us Your Thoughts! Click Here
Arizona Chamber of Commerce Weighs-In
"Passing pot legalization via the ballot box is rife with potentially dangerous consequences," said Garrick Taylor, senior vice president of government relations for the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
The Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry said it was opposes the legalization efforts. The chamber worries about legalized pot resulting in more workplace injuries and workers compensation claims.
The Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry will oppose any such legalization efforts. We arrived at our decision after careful consideration of the experiences of other states that have legalized marijuana, the arguments of proponents and research by our foundation.
Given the enormity of the consequences, the Legislature would be a better venue for debate. Legalization is not an issue that should be decided at the ballot box, where, if passed, it will be essentially carved in stone.
Proposition 105, Arizona’s Voter Protection law, which was passed in 1998, severely limits the ability of the Legislature to reverse or alter a voter-passed measure. With legalization experiments in other states still very much in their infancy, we should proceed with extreme caution before we pass a new law by initiative that will be difficult to ever change or undo.
There will always be individuals who want to get high, and many will figure out a way to do so. But Arizona should not calibrate a sweeping, untested public policy effort around them.
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Prop 208
Primary Information Source: Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Ballotpedia Date: 09/10/2020 Summary Arizona Proposition 208, the Tax on Incomes Exceeding $250,000 for Teacher Salaries and Schools Initiative, is on the ballot in Arizona as an initiated state statute on November 3, 2020. Funding The vast majority of funding for this initiative campaign to raise income taxes on individuals and small businesses comes from out-of-state unions and interest groups. The single largest contributor being an organization based out of Oregon. Arizona Chamber Commerce Position: According to the Arizona Chamber of Commerce the proposition will devastate small businesses who will be subject to higher taxes than large corporations at an economically vulnerable time. No accountability for heavily weighted administrative spending & no guarantees on money for teachers. Greatly diminish the attractiveness of doing business in Arizona. (See chart to the left) Glenn Hamer is president and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Hide-and-Go-Tax: The Largest Tax Increase Ever in Arizona! You’ve likely seen the new television ad from the pro-Proposition 208 campaign. In case you’ve forgotten, Proposition 208 is the initiative to raise Arizona’s top income tax rate from 4.5% to 8%--a 77.7% increase. If you haven’t been following the back and forth over this initiative, you’re forgiven if you didn’t know its central provision amounts to the largest tax increase in Arizona history. The TV ad doesn’t mention it at all. Instead, viewers are told that the initiative would restore education funding. Left out of the script is that Proposition 208’s tax increase on small business would deliver such a shock to state revenues that future education funding would be put at tremendous risk. Also left out is that early childhood, community colleges, and universities are left with peanuts. Proponents also fail to inform viewers that they are relying on the section of tax code with the greatest volatility, leaving no guarantee for funding from year to year and no way for school districts to budget with any predictability. If voters want to deliver a boost in teachers’ contractual pay, they won’t get it from Proposition 208. The ad touts Proposition 208’s accountability requirements, saying that funds would be “voter-protected.” That has nothing to do with accountability. It’s a statement of Arizona’s existing law that makes it virtually impossible to change a voter-passed initiative. There’s a reason for this obfuscation. There’s absolutely no accountability in this initiative. None. Nada. Zip. Zilch. The ad promises a lot. Political ads often do. What the ad doesn’t do is answer how it will deliver. A political ad urging passage of an initiative that proposes the largest income tax increase in state history that doesn’t mention the tax increase at all? Unlike the script, that says a lot. |
CHAMBER ADVISORY
08-31-20
ARIZONA MEP EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM for MANUFACTURES
Arizona MEP has been working diligently to help Arizona manufacturers navigate the challenges and overcome the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. These efforts are being accelerated with a grant received through the NIST MEP Emergency Assistance Program. These funds will be used to subsidize services that directly support manufacturers’ ability to sustain operations and respond to the coronavirus.
In addition to services already offered by Arizona MEP, the enhanced support is made possible by a one-time allocation as part of the CARES Act, which was awarded to Arizona MEP by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Arizona MEP is offering services, subsidized by the funds from NIST, to help manufacturers overcome the impact of the pandemic.
Please send questions or comments to info@azmep.com.
APPLICATION HERE
08-31-20
ARIZONA MEP EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM for MANUFACTURES
Arizona MEP has been working diligently to help Arizona manufacturers navigate the challenges and overcome the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. These efforts are being accelerated with a grant received through the NIST MEP Emergency Assistance Program. These funds will be used to subsidize services that directly support manufacturers’ ability to sustain operations and respond to the coronavirus.
In addition to services already offered by Arizona MEP, the enhanced support is made possible by a one-time allocation as part of the CARES Act, which was awarded to Arizona MEP by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Arizona MEP is offering services, subsidized by the funds from NIST, to help manufacturers overcome the impact of the pandemic.
Please send questions or comments to info@azmep.com.
APPLICATION HERE
CHAMBER ADVISORY
08-19-20
Two New Grants
A. SMALL BUSINESS RENT AND MORTGAGE RELIEF GRANT PROGRAM
B. CHILD CARE PROVIDER GRANT
A. SMALL BUSINESS RENT AND MORTGAGE RELIEF GRANT PROGRAM
The Governor’s office has announced that $10 million has been allocated to create an Arizona Small Business Rent and Mortgage Relief Grant. The program will provide rent and mortgage assistance to small Arizona businesses that were required to pause operations by Executive Order 2020-43.
Applications Will Be Open Thursday, August 20 at 10 a.m.
B. CHILD CARE PROVIDER GRANTS
All DHS licensed centers, DHS group homes, and DES family child care providers, Tribal child care providers, and military child care providers may be eligible for the Child Care COVID-19 Grant Program. These providers do not need to be contracted with DES.
The goal of the Grant Program is to provide financial assistance to help all regulated child care providers safely remain open or reopen to preserve access to child care for Arizona’s families.
The Child Care COVID-19 grant can be used to help child care providers cover a variety of expenses during the COVID-19 crisis including salaries and benefits for employees, DHS licensing fees, liability insurance, tuition and registration relief for families, lease and mortgage payments, utilities, cleaning supplies, classroom materials and supplies, and additional supplies required by CDC and
DHS guidelines.
Apply Here
08-19-20
Two New Grants
A. SMALL BUSINESS RENT AND MORTGAGE RELIEF GRANT PROGRAM
B. CHILD CARE PROVIDER GRANT
A. SMALL BUSINESS RENT AND MORTGAGE RELIEF GRANT PROGRAM
The Governor’s office has announced that $10 million has been allocated to create an Arizona Small Business Rent and Mortgage Relief Grant. The program will provide rent and mortgage assistance to small Arizona businesses that were required to pause operations by Executive Order 2020-43.
Applications Will Be Open Thursday, August 20 at 10 a.m.
- Businesses include gyms, fitness centers and studios, bars, water parks and others named in Executive Order: 2020-43.
- The program will provide grants for up to two months of rent and mortgage payments due by small businesses.
- The maximum award will be $25,000.
- Grants will be prioritized for businesses that are most in need of the funding to meet their rent or mortgage obligations and do not have access to other financial support.
B. CHILD CARE PROVIDER GRANTS
All DHS licensed centers, DHS group homes, and DES family child care providers, Tribal child care providers, and military child care providers may be eligible for the Child Care COVID-19 Grant Program. These providers do not need to be contracted with DES.
The goal of the Grant Program is to provide financial assistance to help all regulated child care providers safely remain open or reopen to preserve access to child care for Arizona’s families.
The Child Care COVID-19 grant can be used to help child care providers cover a variety of expenses during the COVID-19 crisis including salaries and benefits for employees, DHS licensing fees, liability insurance, tuition and registration relief for families, lease and mortgage payments, utilities, cleaning supplies, classroom materials and supplies, and additional supplies required by CDC and
DHS guidelines.
Apply Here
Chamber Advisory
08-17-2020
RE: More Grant Money Available
Maricopa County Small Business Relief Program
Executive Summary:
Maricopa County is offering grants up to $25,000 to small businesses and nonprofits experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. County officials shared with the CEO of the Chamber that a significant amount of grant monies are still available. The requirements have been loosened up, and you may apply for up to $25,000. This is NOT a loan, but a grant. Applicants that have received COVID-related government assistance, including Payroll Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan, SBA Express Bridge Loans, and SBA Debt Relief, are now eligible to apply.
Relief grants are intended to support the continued viability of small businesses and nonprofits across the Valley. For-profit businesses and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations located in Maricopa County, but not within the cities of Mesa or Phoenix**, are eligible.
Deadlines
Applications will be accepted beginning Monday, August 17 through Friday, October 2, 2020. Grants will be awarded on a rolling basis until funding is exhausted or the grant period closes.
For information and Application: azfoundation.org/MaricopaRelief
Qualifications
To qualify, small business and nonprofits must meet all of the following requirements:
Meets required zoning and regulatory requirements including:
Complies with the following provisions:
Applicants that have received COVID-related government assistance, including Payroll Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan, SBA Express Bridge Loans, and SBA Debt Relief, are now eligible to apply.
08-17-2020
RE: More Grant Money Available
Maricopa County Small Business Relief Program
Executive Summary:
Maricopa County is offering grants up to $25,000 to small businesses and nonprofits experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. County officials shared with the CEO of the Chamber that a significant amount of grant monies are still available. The requirements have been loosened up, and you may apply for up to $25,000. This is NOT a loan, but a grant. Applicants that have received COVID-related government assistance, including Payroll Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan, SBA Express Bridge Loans, and SBA Debt Relief, are now eligible to apply.
Relief grants are intended to support the continued viability of small businesses and nonprofits across the Valley. For-profit businesses and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations located in Maricopa County, but not within the cities of Mesa or Phoenix**, are eligible.
Deadlines
Applications will be accepted beginning Monday, August 17 through Friday, October 2, 2020. Grants will be awarded on a rolling basis until funding is exhausted or the grant period closes.
For information and Application: azfoundation.org/MaricopaRelief
Qualifications
To qualify, small business and nonprofits must meet all of the following requirements:
- In operation in Maricopa County, but not within the cities of Phoenix or Mesa, prior to January 1, 2019.
- Employs 50 or fewer full-time equivalents as of March 1, 2020.
- Did not generate more than $5 million in gross revenues between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019.
- Gross revenues declined by at least 25% as a result of COVID-19 from March through June 2020 as compared to March through June 2019.
Meets required zoning and regulatory requirements including:
- Having the proper zoning entitlements.
- Not having any active enforcement actions against the applicant by Maricopa County or their respective city/town government.
- Being in substantial compliance, meaning that the County or respective city/town has not taken any enforcement action authorized by law for any deficiencies.
- Is in good standing with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
Complies with the following provisions:
- Not an adult-oriented business as defined by A.R.S. § 11-811 (E)(5).
- Not engaged in the growth, harvest, storage, transport, distribution, use or otherwise providing cannabis for medical or recreational purposes.
- Not owned, in whole or part, by a Maricopa County official or employee who, in their official capacity, participates in the oversight, development or implementation of the Maricopa County Small Business/Nonprofit Relief Program
Applicants that have received COVID-related government assistance, including Payroll Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan, SBA Express Bridge Loans, and SBA Debt Relief, are now eligible to apply.
Chamber Advisory
07-09-2020
Re: Chamber Alters 50+ Year Tradition and Endorses Candidates
The Surprise Regional Chamber today released its first-round list of endorsed candidates. The group of 9 candidates is running for the state legislature. The endorsement alters its 50+ year tradition on staying out of political races. The Chamber will join the likes of the Glendale and Phoenix Chambers, among others who also endorse candidates.
The Chamber's endorsements go to candidates who have a proven track record on issues that are important to businesses and their employees. The candidates we have endorsed understand the importance of advancing legislation that encourages economic growth, job creation, and a less intrusive government.
The Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce is the most influential and most successful business advocate in the North West Valley, promoting business and economic growth. A Chamber endorsement will give confidence and direction to the business leaders in El Mirage, Sun City, Sun City West, Surprise, Waddell, and Youngtown.
2020 Candidate Endorsement:
State Senate:
State House of Representatives:
The Process of Holding Elected Officials Accountable: The board of directors adopted a candidate endorsement policy because leadership matters in both the public sector and the private sector, and we need strong leadership. Secondly, we need to hold elected officials accountable based on their voting records. The Chamber's endorsements are based on the the Chambers State Legislative Agenda.
The Process of Endorsing: The endorsement pronouncement comes on the heels of another significant announcement by the Chamber this month, which was a local government policy agenda. The policies addressed in the agenda were strategically chosen based on a combination of the Chamber's state legislative agenda and feedback from the local business community.
Chambers are Changing: Chambers across the country are moving away from a 1960's model that emphasized parades, parties, pageants, and mixers to a newer model of representing the interests of the business community. In sharp contrast Chambers are 400% less likely to make political endorsements if they have contracts with local and county governments (US Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Survey, 2019) . Chris Herring, the Chamber Government Relations Chair stated, "this not surprising; it is hard to be a watchdog and hold elected officials accountable if your organization is highly dependent on government funding." According to a WACE industry survey, there are six chambers in the Phoenix metro area that now endorse political candidates.
07-09-2020
Re: Chamber Alters 50+ Year Tradition and Endorses Candidates
The Surprise Regional Chamber today released its first-round list of endorsed candidates. The group of 9 candidates is running for the state legislature. The endorsement alters its 50+ year tradition on staying out of political races. The Chamber will join the likes of the Glendale and Phoenix Chambers, among others who also endorse candidates.
The Chamber's endorsements go to candidates who have a proven track record on issues that are important to businesses and their employees. The candidates we have endorsed understand the importance of advancing legislation that encourages economic growth, job creation, and a less intrusive government.
The Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce is the most influential and most successful business advocate in the North West Valley, promoting business and economic growth. A Chamber endorsement will give confidence and direction to the business leaders in El Mirage, Sun City, Sun City West, Surprise, Waddell, and Youngtown.
2020 Candidate Endorsement:
State Senate:
- Sine Kerr, District 13
- Rick Gray, District 21
- David Livingston, District 22
State House of Representatives:
- Tim Dunn, District 13
- Jeanne Osborne, District 13
- Kevin Payne, District 21
- Tony Rivero, District 21
- Frank Carrol, District 22
- Ben Toma, District 22
The Process of Holding Elected Officials Accountable: The board of directors adopted a candidate endorsement policy because leadership matters in both the public sector and the private sector, and we need strong leadership. Secondly, we need to hold elected officials accountable based on their voting records. The Chamber's endorsements are based on the the Chambers State Legislative Agenda.
The Process of Endorsing: The endorsement pronouncement comes on the heels of another significant announcement by the Chamber this month, which was a local government policy agenda. The policies addressed in the agenda were strategically chosen based on a combination of the Chamber's state legislative agenda and feedback from the local business community.
Chambers are Changing: Chambers across the country are moving away from a 1960's model that emphasized parades, parties, pageants, and mixers to a newer model of representing the interests of the business community. In sharp contrast Chambers are 400% less likely to make political endorsements if they have contracts with local and county governments (US Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Survey, 2019) . Chris Herring, the Chamber Government Relations Chair stated, "this not surprising; it is hard to be a watchdog and hold elected officials accountable if your organization is highly dependent on government funding." According to a WACE industry survey, there are six chambers in the Phoenix metro area that now endorse political candidates.
Chamber Advisory
Your Voice Was Heard: Reopening the Economy Letter
Almost 300 businesses and individuals signed on the Chamber letter encouraging local, state, and federal officials to safely reopen the economy. The lettered recommended consistent guidelines (not more regulations) when moving forward in opening up the economy. The Chamber of Commerce message made it very clear "The NW Valley business community appreciates that reopening safely will require that we all undertake measures to reduce further transmission of COVID-19. We stand ready to do our part. Make no mistake; employers want to reopen in a way that is safe and sustainable."
Most of the elected official responses to our letter were very supportive, below are two examples .
Letter Received by Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce
Arizona State Senator Rick Gray
First, I want to tell you I appreciate your willingness to sign onto the letter from the Surprise Chamber encouraging our state government to release our businesses to open. I am proud to be an Ex Officio board member of the Chamber, but I was not in the discussion to put this letter and recommendation together, although I wholeheartedly support it. And that just adds to the pride I have in our Chamber.
My position, which I have shared with all our Senators as well as many others, is that businesses know their employees and customers better than anyone else. They should be released to make their own determination of what is the most appropriate response for their business. When the government arbitrarily makes decisions for businesses, they will not be making the best choices. A mechanic shop is different than a daycare. And we have seen some ridiculous regulations for business, like a clothing store that is allowed to be open but customers are not allowed to use the changing rooms.
I want you to know that our Republican Caucus in both the Senate and the House is working to get our businesses the opportunity to run their companies as they see fit. I am hopeful the Governor will be motivated, in answer to our concerns and your input from all the emails.
Rick Gray
Senator, LD 21
Senate Majority Leader
Arizona Representative Ben Toma
I want to thank you for reaching out to me on this critical issue. As a small government, pro-business conservative, I strongly share your concern over the damaging economic impact this shutdown is having on our state’s residents and businesses.
I believe it’s time for Arizona to reopen.
As discussions with Governor Ducey continue, I am glad to have a seat at the table and continue to fiercely advocate for a quick and safe reopening of our state keeping in mind the importance of not including arbitrary regulations that hinder our businesses.
It can be done, and more should be done now.
It’s important that the Governor’s office hears this message from you too. You can call his office at (602) 542-4331 or email at engage@az.gov.
Thank you!
Sincerely,
Ben Toma
Representative, District 22
Your Voice Was Heard: Reopening the Economy Letter
Almost 300 businesses and individuals signed on the Chamber letter encouraging local, state, and federal officials to safely reopen the economy. The lettered recommended consistent guidelines (not more regulations) when moving forward in opening up the economy. The Chamber of Commerce message made it very clear "The NW Valley business community appreciates that reopening safely will require that we all undertake measures to reduce further transmission of COVID-19. We stand ready to do our part. Make no mistake; employers want to reopen in a way that is safe and sustainable."
Most of the elected official responses to our letter were very supportive, below are two examples .
Letter Received by Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce
Arizona State Senator Rick Gray
First, I want to tell you I appreciate your willingness to sign onto the letter from the Surprise Chamber encouraging our state government to release our businesses to open. I am proud to be an Ex Officio board member of the Chamber, but I was not in the discussion to put this letter and recommendation together, although I wholeheartedly support it. And that just adds to the pride I have in our Chamber.
My position, which I have shared with all our Senators as well as many others, is that businesses know their employees and customers better than anyone else. They should be released to make their own determination of what is the most appropriate response for their business. When the government arbitrarily makes decisions for businesses, they will not be making the best choices. A mechanic shop is different than a daycare. And we have seen some ridiculous regulations for business, like a clothing store that is allowed to be open but customers are not allowed to use the changing rooms.
I want you to know that our Republican Caucus in both the Senate and the House is working to get our businesses the opportunity to run their companies as they see fit. I am hopeful the Governor will be motivated, in answer to our concerns and your input from all the emails.
Rick Gray
Senator, LD 21
Senate Majority Leader
Arizona Representative Ben Toma
I want to thank you for reaching out to me on this critical issue. As a small government, pro-business conservative, I strongly share your concern over the damaging economic impact this shutdown is having on our state’s residents and businesses.
I believe it’s time for Arizona to reopen.
As discussions with Governor Ducey continue, I am glad to have a seat at the table and continue to fiercely advocate for a quick and safe reopening of our state keeping in mind the importance of not including arbitrary regulations that hinder our businesses.
It can be done, and more should be done now.
It’s important that the Governor’s office hears this message from you too. You can call his office at (602) 542-4331 or email at engage@az.gov.
Thank you!
Sincerely,
Ben Toma
Representative, District 22
Breaking NEWS:
Chamber to Offer Free Marketing Tools for Every Business in the NW Valley in Effort to Jump Start the Economy!
The Chamber says it is now time for all businesses to prepare to re-open, recover and grow: and it’s providing the resources and tools to help make it happen for every business in the NW Valley. “This is why we have launched the Saving Small Business Initiative: Helping Business Re-open, Recover and Grow.”, says Bill Vensel, Chair of the Board of the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce.
In an unprecedented move, the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce is opening up its entire marketing arsenal for the benefit of the entire business community and doing so at no cost to the business with its free COVID-19 Marketing Resources Membership
Chamber to Offer Free Marketing Tools for Every Business in the NW Valley in Effort to Jump Start the Economy!
The Chamber says it is now time for all businesses to prepare to re-open, recover and grow: and it’s providing the resources and tools to help make it happen for every business in the NW Valley. “This is why we have launched the Saving Small Business Initiative: Helping Business Re-open, Recover and Grow.”, says Bill Vensel, Chair of the Board of the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce.
In an unprecedented move, the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce is opening up its entire marketing arsenal for the benefit of the entire business community and doing so at no cost to the business with its free COVID-19 Marketing Resources Membership
Chamber Moves to New Offices
08/15/2019
The Chamber has moved to new offices located off Bell and Reems Roads in Surprise. The move is a strategic one, Raoul Sada, the Chamber's President, and CEO, said.
"Many businesses assumed the Chamber was affiliated with the government because we were located on City property. We frequently had to explain that while we often work with government, we are not part of the government, and we are totally independent. We have our own local board of directors comprised of business owners and business leaders that provided leadership and strategic direction for the organization, with our first and foremost objective is being an advocate for the business community” said Mr. Sada. “Having our new location surrounded by private sector businesses, off Bell Rd., will help end send a different message?” he said.
The current offices are in at 15331 W. Bell Rd. and afford the Chamber a 21st-century flexible office space solution. Our new location offers us flexible workspace with access to a variety private meeting rooms of various sizes. This allows the Chamber to expand and contract as required, without having to invest in permanent space.
Raoul said the chamber would continue with its “be in the community initiative” by having all staff, including himself, spending more time meeting with business owners and community stakeholders, outside of the office. To accomplish this, the Chamber has created an "Appointment Only" policy for our facility hours. “We need more facetime with business owners and leaders,” Mr. Sada said. “This year getting in front of business leaders and owners takes on new importance as we roll out our new Business Climate Survey this fall and start soliciting input from the business community regarding our local government policy agenda.”
The mission of the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce is to champion economic prosperity, foster a pro-business climate and to improve the quality of life in our region.
Chamber Moves to New Offices
08/15/2019
The Chamber has moved to new offices located off Bell and Reems Roads in Surprise. The move is a strategic one, Raoul Sada, the Chamber's President, and CEO, said.
"Many businesses assumed the Chamber was affiliated with the government because we were located on City property. We frequently had to explain that while we often work with government, we are not part of the government, and we are totally independent. We have our own local board of directors comprised of business owners and business leaders that provided leadership and strategic direction for the organization, with our first and foremost objective is being an advocate for the business community” said Mr. Sada. “Having our new location surrounded by private sector businesses, off Bell Rd., will help end send a different message?” he said.
The current offices are in at 15331 W. Bell Rd. and afford the Chamber a 21st-century flexible office space solution. Our new location offers us flexible workspace with access to a variety private meeting rooms of various sizes. This allows the Chamber to expand and contract as required, without having to invest in permanent space.
Raoul said the chamber would continue with its “be in the community initiative” by having all staff, including himself, spending more time meeting with business owners and community stakeholders, outside of the office. To accomplish this, the Chamber has created an "Appointment Only" policy for our facility hours. “We need more facetime with business owners and leaders,” Mr. Sada said. “This year getting in front of business leaders and owners takes on new importance as we roll out our new Business Climate Survey this fall and start soliciting input from the business community regarding our local government policy agenda.”
The mission of the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce is to champion economic prosperity, foster a pro-business climate and to improve the quality of life in our region.
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