Progressive Thinking

Get out of the house and stay healthy says State Treasurer.

MADISON - It’s no secret that Wisconsin has unbeatable natural resources and stunning state parks, and now, I’m happy to announce that as of today (May 1) many of these wonderful state parks will be once again open to all Wisconsinites while still maintaining the social distancing guidelines to keep us all healthy.

As the Chair of the Wisconsin Board of Commissioners of Public Lands, this is an issue that is near and dear to my heart. I know how important it is for Wisconsinites to be able to get outside and enjoy the natural beauty of our state. Not only that, but it’s also critical to maintaining both mental and physical health.

Best of all, these parks are being opened in a safe, responsible manner that will continue to keep us healthy as we combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

These are uncertain times, but if we do our job as responsible citizens and continue to respect social distancing guidelines while at these wonderful parks -- then we can all once again enjoy the natural beauty of our state.

To read more about these guidelines, and to learn which parks are open check out this Press Release from Governor Evers’ office.

I hope you and your loved ones are staying safe.

Talk soon,

Sarah

Sarah Godlewski outlines emergency orders and actions taken to protect the economic security during this public health crisis. Also resources available through the US Small Business Administration.

MADISON - We know a healthy economy is dependent on the health of its people. As we adapt to the Governor’s essential #SaferAtHome order, my office is working hard to provide the resources and information Wisconsinites and our small business community need.

Since my last email, there have been a number of emergency orders and actions to protect the economic security of individuals and small businesses during this public health crisis. A few notable updates are:

• Protection from Eviction/Foreclosure. In order to help ensure people are able to stay home and slow the spread of COVID-19, Governor Evers announced a temporary ban on evictions and foreclosures for 60 days. This includes both residential properties, as well as businesses. To read the full document, click here.

• Insurance for Restaurant Delivery Drivers. As many restaurants are adjusting to carry-out and delivery only, the Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OCI) directed the insurance industry to cover delivery services on personal auto insurance policies. They must also offer coverage, if requested, for hired drivers and non-owned vehicles on a restaurant’s general liability service – both at no extra cost to policyholders. More information on this order here.

• Prevention of Utility Shut-offs. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) has directed regulated utilities to stop disconnection for nonpayment for all customers, including commercial, industrial, and farm accounts. They have also halted late fees and eased a number of administrative rules to keep homes and businesses supplied with light, heat, and water. For help with utility disconnections, reach out to the PSC directly here.

• Sales and Use Tax Extensions. Last week, the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) announced that small businesses can immediately request an extension to file sales and use tax returns. This comes along with extending the income tax payment and return due date to July 15th.  DOR has announced a series of steps to ease payment guidelines and postpone audit actions, more information can be found here.

In addition, there have been updates to resources available through the US Small Business Administration (SBA):

• SBA Express Bridge Loans. This program allows small businesses who have a current relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 with less paperwork. These loans can help small businesses access capital quickly and can be used to bridge the gap while applying for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan. For a list of Wisconsin SBA Express Lenders, click here.

• Paycheck Protection Program. This program was rolled out under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and authorizes $349 billion toward job retention loans. They are specifically designed to help small business keep their workforce employed. If you maintain your workforce, the SBA may forgive the portion of the loan proceeds that are used to cover the first 8 weeks of payroll and certain other expenses following loan origination.

The most current information on eligibility and the application process for all of SBA’s loans can be found at www.sba.gov/coronavirus.

We know that COVID-19 will continue to impact our lives and our community. We are working with our partners to provide the tools and information Wisconsinites need to help navigate this uncertainty. Please feel free to reach out to my office via email at  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with questions.

We are in this together.

Stay safe,

Sarah Godlewski, Wisconsin State Treasurer

State Treasurer offers helpful information in dealing with the crisis.

MADISON - I know we are facing trying times. COVID-19 is impacting not only the health of our loved ones but people’s livelihood. Yet despite it all, the people of Wisconsin continue to amaze me with their acts of kindness and generosity to those around them.

We are grateful to the health care professionals, the public safety officers, the day care providers and everyone else who are making sacrifices to help others. I know that together, we can make it through this.

I’ve heard from a number of small business leaders from across the state who have shared their personal stories of having to shut down or lay off workers. I’m working with key government partners to provide support for our state businesses and have shared a few of those resources available below.

Beyond businesses, I also want to share some community resources for those in need.

I understand these resources will not help everyone, but they are an important start. I will continue to work to provide additional resources and information for workers and businesses who are navigating this time of uncertainty.

Food Security

• Stores across the state are starting Senior Shopping Hours, so that those most at risk can shop safely.
• Hunger Task Force is offering Stock Boxes, featuring cereal, milk, canned veggies and fruits, pasta or rice, protein, fruit juice, canned meats and 2 pounds of cheese, to low income Wisconsinites. If you want to help, donate here.

Resources for Small Businesses

• Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation is creating solutions for businesses. WEDC is working to provide $5 million in grants for small businesses of fewer than twenty people. Learn more about it here.
• The Small Business Administration has approved Governor Evers’ request for loans for small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Apply here.

Mental Health

• If you are struggling with mental health, support is available. Call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746

Childcare and Resources for Students

• The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families has information for child care, including requests for assistance.

Volunteer Opportunities

• No matter where you live in Wisconsin, there are opportunities for people looking to help out. Check out Volunteer Wisconsin for ways to support your community.

I was living near the Pentagon on 9/11. I remember in those hours and days after, that I didn’t know how we would possibly recover as a nation. But then I saw neighbors and friends giving blood, volunteering and helping each other get by, one day at a time.

This pandemic is unlike any crisis we have ever faced as a nation, but I know that, if we follow the safety precautions and continue to work together, we will be successful.

-Sarah