WASHINGTON D.C. (WKZO AM/FM) – Michigan’s U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow today pressed for additional action to provide relief for Michigan restaurants and bars that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In their letter to the Small Business Administration, the Senators highlighted concerns they have heard from small business owners regarding the Restaurant Revitalization Fund and urged the SBA to address challenges faced by businesses that applied for support from the Fund and provide additional information to businesses seeking relief.
“As Senators who are deeply supportive of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund and its mission helping Michigan’s food and beverage providers, we have heard concerning feedback from constituents regarding the program,” wrote the Senators. “There are still many Michigan restaurants that have been shut out from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund and with each passing day, more independent businesses are forced to shutter permanently or file for bankruptcy… Further delays in the distribution of information and funding are unacceptable and would have irreversible consequences for this industry.”
Peters and Stabenow say strong demand for relief from the Fund has resulted in funds being depleted and applications no longer being accepted.
The Senators both support the Restaurant Revitalization Fund Replenishment Act of 2021, which would provide $60 billion in additional funding for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.
