Rep. Abrams Encourages Small Businesses to Provide Insight with Ohio House Task Force

HARRISON – State Representative Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison) is encouraging small business owners in Hamilton County to share their experience regarding the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic with the OHIO 2020 Economic Recovery Task Force.

The task force was recently created by Speaker Larry Householder (R-Glenford) to begin looking at ways to lay the foundation for economic renewal in the wake of COVID-19.

“This is a great opportunity for the hardworking businesses in my district to share their story as we work together to rebound Ohio’s economy,” said Abrams. “Small businesses are a critical part of our economy and communities, and it’s important they have their voices heard.”

The task force is reviewing and inviting owners throughout the state to participate in virtual meetings to explain the impact in greater detail. If you have a business, you can email Ohio2020@ohiohouse.gov the following information:

-Name and location of the business
-Number of employees
-Years in business
-Contact information for business owners (email, phone number)
-Brief description of nature of the business

Additionally, businesses can submit written responses to the task force. If submitting or speaking before the task force, the panel asks businesses focus on the following points:

- If/how they are able to operate during the coronavirus.
- What kind of financial strains have been brought on by this? If they have been in business for many years, how has this been compared to other financial downturns?
- What kinds of obstacles do they see ahead of them once they are able to fully open up again?
- Any governmental roadblocks ahead that the legislature should be aware of?
- Any ideas that they might have on protocols they believe would be helpful to return to work while maintaining a level of safety to provide confidence to their customers?

The 24-member House task force is meeting regularly via teleconference and hearing from guest presenters on a range of issues. The meetings are streamed live on OhioChannel.org. Follow @OHTaskForce2020 on Facebook and Twitter for updates.