On April 16, the Trump administration released new federal guidelines for governors to use while reopening their state’s economies following coronavirus quarantine procedures. The administration's 18-page guidance document, the “Opening Up America Again” plan, details three phases to reopen state economies, with a series of “gating criteria” it uses to gauge infection levels and avoid a resurgence in infection rates.

AFS will host a webinar, "COVID-19: New Federal Loaning Options for Small and Medium-Sized Metalcasters -- Are You Eligible, How Do You Apply, and What are the Key Terms/Benefits?" on April 6.

As states initiate work restrictions on business, AFS urges governors to ensure the metalcasting industry is designated as a critical manufacturing sector vital to critical infrastructure.

The federal government and several states have extended their deadlines to file and pay 2019 tax returns because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The Small Business Administration announced it would offer disaster assistance loans for up to $2 million for foundries and other small businesses affected by the coronavirus. These low-interest loans are available to businesses that have sustained “substantial economic injury” due to the spread of the virus.

AFS continues to advocate for metalcasting during the COVID-19 crisis facing the U.S. and the metalcasting supply chain. On Friday, March 20, AFS sent a letter to Vice President Mike Pence in his role leading the COVID-19 task force, asking the administration to identify foundries, their supply chains, and workers as essential when drafting and enforcing shelter-in-place rules during the pandemic.

The Senate approved a multibillion-dollar emergency aid package on Wednesday, March 18, to provide up to 12 weeks of paid sick and family leave for workers at companies with fewer than 500 employees, unemployment benefits, free coronavirus testing, and food and medical aid to people suffering from the results of the coronavirus pandemic.