Small Business Aid: Wildfire Smoke Now Defined as a Disaster
This bill expands the definition of "disaster" under the Small Business Act to explicitly include smoke. This change allows small businesses that suffer financial losses or operational disruptions due to heavy smoke (such as from wildfires) to qualify for federal disaster relief loans and assistance. It provides a new financial safety net for entrepreneurs impacted by air quality issues.
Key points
Smoke (e.g., from wildfires) is officially recognized as a "disaster" for small business aid purposes.
Small businesses can now apply for federal recovery loans and support if their operations are disrupted or damaged by smoke.
This change is crucial for regions regularly affected by wildfires and associated poor air quality conditions.
Expired
Citizen Poll