Chambers of Commerce have been a non-government resource for small businesses during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Chambers have performed a concierge role, helping members and non-members discover aid for which they were eligible and helping them apply. In many places, Chambers are playing a role on task forces trying to plan the post-pandemic reopening of cities and counties.
For weeks, the Chambers of Commerce across the country have been sending messages to their representatives in Congress urging them to amend the definition of nonprofit in the CARES Act to include Chambers. Chambers across Texas including the Metro-Eight Chambers, of which the Greater Arlington Chamber is a member, have communicated the need for Chambers to be included to both of our US senators.
Senator Cruz and Senator Cornyn have written letters to the administrator of the SBA asking that Chambers be included in the Paycheck Protection Program. There is some precedent implying the SBA could act on Senator Cruz’ request. When the CARES Act was passed, only 501(c)3’s were in the definition of nonprofit. Later the SBA included 501(C)19’s — veterans organizations — as eligible. Religious organizations were originally not included but have been added as eligible.
Most Chambers are organized as 501 (C)(6)’s. Both letters have asked that the whole category of 501(C)(6) organizations be made eligible.