A Message From Your Chamber President
Dear Chamber Member,
We are working to ensure that you have the most up-to-date business resources to help you during this time. The challenges may seem unmanageable to some, but we are facing them together. For businesses who are just starting to feel the pressure, don’t panic, but work quickly!
Provided below are the most current business resources available. Talking this out with your respected advisors, peers and chamber connections will help.
We have created a COVID-19 Business Resource page to keep you informed on the most relevant and up-to-date business resources.
Eligibility for unemployment benefits has been temporarily expanded through an executive order signed by Governor Whitmer. During this time unemployment benefits are extended to:
- Workers who have an unanticipated family care responsibility, including those who have childcare responsibilities due to school closures, or those who are forced to care for loved ones who become ill.
- Workers who are sick, quarantined, or immunocompromised and who do not have access to paid family and medical leave or are laid off.
- First responders in the public health community who become ill or are quarantined due to exposure to COVID-19.
Access to benefits for unemployed workers will also be extended. The normal in-person registration and work search requirements will be suspended.
Click here for a fact sheet on how to apply for benefits.
This order also expands the State’s Work Share program. Employers are encouraged to implement the program that permits employers to maintain operational productivity during declines in regular business activity instead of laying off workers. Click here to learn more about the Work Share program.
We love our businesses and this community and are doing everything in our power to be supportive.
Cindy Larsen and your chamber staff