Shusterman authors legislation to help small businesses strengthen online presence
Innamorato supports measure benefiting mom and pop shops
Rep. Sara Innamorato July 13, 2020 | 4:42 PM
PAOLI, July 13 – State Rep. Melissa Shusterman has drafted legislation (H.B. 2535) to help local businesses strengthen their online sales capabilities as Pennsylvania continues social distancing practices.
Shusterman said her legislation would require the Department of Community and Economic Development to provide technical support and guidance to Pennsylvania businesses with five or fewer employees. Shusterman said her bill would particularly help micro-businesses survive the economic shutdown brought on by COVID-19 as well as help them expand their reach, allowing them to better compete against big-box stores.
“The survival of small businesses throughout the Commonwealth is an integral part of our overall economic prosperity,” Shusterman said. “My bill aims to help these businesses thrive as they’re working to get back on their feet and if we experience a second wave of COVID-19 in the fall. If businesses are once again ordered to close, it’s the legislature’s job to implement creative, tangible solutions to ensure that they can stay afloat.”
House Bill 2535 has gained bipartisan support from legislators throughout the Commonwealth, including state Rep. Sara Innamorato, D-Allegheny.
“I hear from our Main Street business owners on how hard it can be, even under normal conditions, for them to be financially successful,” Innamorato said. “At a time when social distancing is the new normal, it can be difficult for our micro business to find the time or resources to create and maintain an online presence. By helping them get up and running, we will be helping our mom and pops stay competitive – and keeping our neighborhoods vibrant.”
House Bill 2535 was referred to the House Commerce Committee on May 21.
More information on the legislation is available by contacting Shusterman’s office at 484-200-8260.