The House Committee on Small Business held a hearing on Wednesday, 9/27 titled “Action Through Innovation: Private Sector Solutions to Recouping Stolen Pandemic Loan Funds”.
In The States
Vermont Governor Phil Scott (R) intends to boost support for businesses that suffered damage during last July’s historic floods. They plan to remove the previous cap of $20,000 and extend reimbursements to eligible businesses with losses under $1 million, covering up to 30% of their net damages. This decision is aimed at addressing the more than $120 million in unmet needs resulting from the floods and expediting financial assistance for businesses and nonprofits affected by the disaster.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro (D) has issued an executive order that outlines the state’s approach to utilizing artificial intelligence (AI). This order establishes a set of standards, principles, and a governance framework for the responsible deployment of generative AI across state agencies. Furthermore, there are intentions to collaborate with AI research and innovation institutions to maximize the benefits of AI in government operations.
At the Agencies
The US Department of Labor announced the release of the 22nd edition of the “Findings on the Worst Forms of Child Labor,” which spotlights child labor abuses globally and reviews progress made by some countries to meet their international commitments to eliminate abuses.
The US Small Business Administration announced new data showing the number, rate, and share of SBA-backed loans going to Hispanic or Latino-owned businesses have all grown significantly since 2021.
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