Michigan Launches Series Of Small Business Programs Amid Pandemic

MICHIGAN — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Tuesday announced the state was implementing a series of programs aiming to assist restaurants and small businesses struggling due to the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Among the programs announced is another liquor buyback program for restaurants and bars, and also a partnership with restaurants allowing them to accept SNAP benefits in exchange for prepared meals, according to a news release issued by Whitmer's administration.

The state is also funneling another $2 million into the Eviction Diversion Program, according to the release.

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“As we head into another Michigan winter, I’ll continue to do everything I can to support our families and small businesses,” Whitmer said. “These actions will ensure that families have the support they need to put food on the table and keep a roof over their heads this winter, as well as provide support to local restaurants and small business owners all over the state that are struggling as a result of the pandemic. As we continue working to distribute the safe and effective vaccine and eradicate COVID-19 once and for all, I will keep using every tool in my toolbox to protect our families and small businesses.

"Remember, Michiganders: mask up, practice safe social distancing, and avoid indoor gatherings where the virus can easily spread from person to person. We will get through this together.”

Restaurant Meal Program

The Restaurant Meal Program will give eligible food assistance recipients the opportunity to use their benefits to purchase restaurant meals. Older adults over 60, people with a disability including those who receive Social Security Income or other disability program benefits and people experiencing homelessness are among those who are eligible.

MDHHS is opening the program for restaurants to enroll with the aim of providing diverse and affordable options for eligible participants across the state, officials said.

Liquor Buyback for Bars and Restaurants

As part of a spirits buyback program announced earlier this year, The Michigan Liquor Control Commission bought back almost $3.4 million in spirits from 673 on-premises liquor licensees, providing an average $5,000 in financial relief for bar and restaurant owners during the pandemic, according to the state. Whitmer’s administration will take similar action this winter, it said.

“We are thankful for these programs because any kind of assistance helps our struggling industry,” said Scott Ellis, Executive Director of the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association. “Our number one goal is to get businesses open, which is why we urge Michiganders to do everything they can to end this pandemic.”

Michigan Eviction Diversion Program

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority Eviction Diversion Program is designed to keep Michigan residents who fell behind on their rent during COVID-19 in their homes and, so far, the state said, the program has helped an estimated 16,000 people stay in their homes.

The program was initiated and funded from Senate Bill 690, which appropriated $880 million in federal CARES Act dollars. The Senate bills called for $60 million to be set aside to establish a rental assistance program – of which $50 million has been dedicated to keeping renters in their homes with the remaining $10 million covering case management, legal, and administrative costs.

"This year, 'home for the holidays' is more fragile than ever for too many Michiganders, as the COVID-19 crisis has many families still worrying about how they're going to make their next rent or mortgage payment," Michigan League for Public Policy President and CEO Gilda Jacobs said. "The governor's continued recognition of the need to protect residents from eviction, hardship and potential homelessness during the pandemic is greatly appreciated, and it is more important now than ever as we head into Michigan's brutal winter months.

"While Congress was finally able to pass an additional federal stimulus yesterday to help residents during this crisis, the governor's important action today will help sustain the state Eviction Diversion Program and help renters until additional federal eviction resources arrive."

Related: Michigan House Passes $465M Coronavirus Relief Bill

Whitmer's announcement comes one day after the Michigan Legislature passed a $465 million stimulus plan, which included $55 million to help small businesses impacted by COVID-19.

Grants of up to $20,000 will be made available to small businesses across the state that need support this winter. The relief bill also includes $3.5 million for grants of up to $40,000 each for live music and entertainment venues, and includes $45 million in direct payments to workers who have been laid off or furloughed as a result of the virus, with a direct focus on restaurant and hospitality workers.

After Congress passed a federal relief bill late Monday, Whitmer Tuesday morning said she was urging them to continue working together to provide crucial support for state an local governments.

“Michigan and states across the country need additional aid to state and local governments," she said. "For months, bipartisan governors across the country have been urging Congress to provide federal funding to states to fund crucial services like police and fire, emergency responders, Medicaid, higher education, and more. These services could face cuts without help from the federal government.”

Read More: Stimulus Payments, Small Business Help Headed To MI: What To Know