HARTFORD, Conn. (WTIC Radio) - U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal is calling for more immediate action from lawmakers in Washington during the coronavirus outbreak after meeting with small business owners Monday.
With new measures in place to stop the spread of COVID-19, including a mandated closure for non-essential businesses at 8 o'clock, Blumenthal says a new relief package is needed to help sustain small businesses that are suffering.
According to Blumenthal, with two packages up for vote, a third package is needed to address the issues small businesses are facing.
He says it would include "unprecedented loans and grants" to help provide a financial cushion small business owners do not have.
He says it would also include aid in resources for healthcare facilities
One relief package, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, is on the Senate floor after the House passed it Saturday. Blumenthal says the Senate needs to pass the package immediately with unanimous consent.
Blumenthal met with small business owners through the MetroHartford Alliance.