**Watch the discussion here** 

Hopkinton, NH - Today, Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02) hosted a virtual roundtable discussion with leadership from the NH Bankers Association, Gibson’s Bookstore, Lawson Group, Claremont Savings Bank, Ink Factory and Vegataball, and Governor Sununu’s Office for Emergency Relief and Recovery (GOFERR), to hear about their experiences with the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and state grant programs funded under the CARES Act. Kuster co-sponsored the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act, which became law in June and provides flexibility to the PPP to make critical funds more accessible to small businesses that are facing economic challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant challenges for Granite State businesses, forcing some to close or lay off workers, and leaving many uncertain about the future and how to make it through this crisis,” said Kuster. “Over the last few months, I’ve worked to make it easier for struggling businesses to access the funding and resources they need to keep employees on payroll and stay afloat. I will share the valuable input and stories I heard today with my colleagues as we continue our efforts to help businesses endure these challenging times. By working together, we can safely restore our economy and protect New Hampshire’s thriving business community.” 

During the discussion, Kuster heard from: 

• Shaun Thomas, Assistant Director for Policy and Disbursements at GOFERR
• Kristy Merrill, President, NH Bankers Association
• Michael Herrmann, Owner, Gibson’s Bookstore
• Cheryl Lawson, CEO, Lawson Group
• Reggie Greene, President and CEO, Claremont Savings Bank
• Jeff Barrette, Owner, The Ink Factory

Kuster worked with her colleagues in Washington to secure federal funding that led to more than 24,000 PPP loans that brought over $2.5 billion to NH businesses. She also supported the CARES Act, which provided funding for the state’s creation of the Main Street Relief Fund, Self Employed Livelihood Fund and the GAP fund, all of which provided critical funding to Granite State businesses, entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations. In May, Kuster voted in favor of the HEROES Act, which provides businesses greater flexibility to use PPP.

Watch the discussion here. 

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