Joyce Urges Democrats to End Obstruction of Paycheck Protection Program Funding

Altoona, PA Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13) released the following statement outlining the need for more funding in the Paycheck Protection Program, which is slated to run out of funds before the end of the week. This program, established by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, allows small businesses to apply for forgivable loans to cover payroll, employee benefits, and other key expenses, such as rent, mortgage payments, and utilities.

"During the coronavirus outbreak, our small businesses have been forced to severely change the way they operate or even temporarily close their doors. The Paycheck Protection Program is helping our small businesses keep their workers paid. In just weeks, more than 36,600 small businesses in Pennsylvania have been approved for these forgivable loans. With the Paycheck Protection Program funding slated to run out by the end of the week, President Trump has asked Congress to approve additional funds to ensure that this assistance reaches those who need it most.

"It is despicable that Democrats are blocking this commonsense legislation to protect hardworking Americans' paychecks and to keep our small businesses afloat. This is no time for politics. I urge Speaker Pelosi and Leader Schumer to end their obstruction of the Paycheck Protection Program funding and to stop playing games with Americans' paychecks."

Since the rollout of the Paycheck Protection Program on April 3, more than a million loans have been approved for small businesses across America.

• More than 1,100,000 loans have been approved for small businesses
• Almost $270 billion in loans have been processed
• Nearly 4,800 lenders have participated

Small businesses that want to participate in the Paycheck Protection Program should apply as soon as possible. More information and applications are available directly from the Small Business Administration.

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