On April 2, 2020, Council Chairman Phil Mendelson circulated the COVID-19 Response Supplemental Emergency Amendment Act of 2020 for the Council's consideration at its legislative session to be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2020. In his memo to the full Council, Chairman Mendelson indicated this additional emergency act is intended to make several additional changes to the previous emergency bill, to assist the District government in providing an effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key provisions of the pending emergency legislation
- Authorizes the Mayor to make direct payments to workers who would not be eligible for any wage replacement currently in place
- Expands the small retailer tax credit
- Requires mortgage companies to offer a 90-day deferment program
- Enhances penalties for unfair trade practices
- Authorizes advance payments for District government contractors that are certified business enterprises (CBEs)
- Provides vacant property designation waivers for businesses closed due to the public health emergency
- Modifies the District's sick leave law to align with the CARES Act
- Provides debt collection relief during the public health emergency
- Expands eligibility for the Department of Small and Local Business Development Microgrant Program
- Creates a microgrant program for individuals mirroring the business microgrant program
The full text and a summary of the COVID-19 Response Supplemental Emergency Amendment Act of 2020 are provided at the "Read More" links below.