How to push for additional PPP funding

Those in the party and event rental industry are continuing to be hit hard by the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19). A recent survey of American Rental Association (ARA) members found that event rental businesses reported an average revenue decline of 55.6 percent in June 2020 compared to June 2019. While those numbers have improved since the reported 91.2 percent drop in revenue in April 2020, those in the industry still need support.

That is why ARA is calling on every member to reach out to their Congressional representatives in both the House and Senate to express the equipment and event rental industry’s need for additional funding and support through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Dan Hooks, CERP, president, Party Reflections, Charlotte, N.C., and ARA president-elect, shared the importance of this program in a recent video.

Currently there are proposals in Congress that would allow businesses that continue to experience revenue losses of at least 50 percent to obtain a supplemental PPP loan. ARA fully supports this proposal as long as it applies to all businesses that have 500 or fewer employees, just as the original PPP did.

Members of Congress are currently back in their districts through July 17, so now is a great time to reach them. To do so, visit ARAvotes.com and click on the “Your Elected Officials” tab. In the right-hand column, type in your state and hit the “Submit” button. There you will find your federal representatives. Click on their name and scroll down to find “District Offices” Click here for talking points to help facilitate your conversations