Time to Tap Congressional Relief for Small Businesses

posted on 3.30.2020

- Plans for Upcoming TAB Events

With Congress’ adoption of pandemic relief legislation station owners and managers can now begin learning details of the provisions that most benefit broadcasters as identified by NAB.  In addition, NAB has prepared these preliminary instructions for accessing the SBA forgivable loan program.

Keep in mind that the “CARES Act,” as the legislation is called, applies to most, if not all, of your advertisers, too, and the information provided at those links can help them, as well.

FCC Scam Alert – Scammers are exploiting pandemic fears with everything from fake testing kits and unproven cures to government imposter scams and work from home schemes, most involving robocalls. The FCC has developed a COVID-19 scams page that includes tips to help consumers protect themselves and their loved ones. The guide includes scam audio and a sample text hoax that was circulating.

DHS Access/Fuel Passes – We reached out to city, county and state officials before any stay at home orders were issued to ensure they honored access and fuel passes issued by the Dept. of Homeland Security. To our knowledge, all such orders issued to date include the news media as “essential businesses.”  Because the situation is rapidly changing, we recommend all station staff travel with station IDs/business cards and copies of these passes.

Key Legal Insights – TAB’s general counsel, the Jackson Walker law firm, is providing key legal insights on a wide range of business and legal matters related to the pandemic in this great online resource. Topics range from state and federal taxes, to labor and employment law, to employee benefits.

Future TAB Events – At this time TAB’s plans for the Certified Radio Operator/Chief Operator class the week of May 18 and the TAB Show July 29-30 remain unchanged. We are, of course, monitoring the pandemic and keeping abreast of official pronouncements. We’ll alert you immediately of any changes.

TAB Office – The TAB office is open and most staff are present. Three of us are having to work from home. We’ve canceled all guest events and are able to secure our floor against surprise guests. Don’t hesitate to email or call with any questions.

Finally, thank you for all you’re doing and the sacrifices you’ve made to keep your community safe and informed. Never are broadcasters more essential to the well-being of those we serve than during times such as this. Keep strong and STAY WELL!

Questions? Contact TAB’s Oscar Rodriguez or call (512) 322-9944.

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