Update on the Coronavirus
The spread of the coronavirus across the Show-Me State has caused major disruptions in our day-to-day lives. Schools are closed, most churches have suspended services and many mass gatherings are banned. A look around the neighborhood grocery store reveals empty shelves and some worried faces. It’s true we’re facing some difficult times, but as I said before, there’s no need to panic. Rest assured that your elected leaders and other dedicated public servants are doing what they can to help resolve the current situation. Already several accommodations are being made to help Missourians in need.
First off, following a similar move by the IRS, the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) has extended the tax filing deadline from April 15, 2020, to July 15, 2020. Income tax payment deadlines for individual and corporate income returns with a due date of April 15, 2020, have also been extended until July 15, 2020. This will hopefully provide Missourians and businesses across the state with some breathing room to pay their taxes during these difficult times.
In order to prevent crowding at local license offices, DOR has also implemented automatic extensions for expiring driver’s licenses and motor vehicle registrations. Valid Missouri driver’s licenses, non-driver’s licenses and noncommercial instruction permits with original expiration dates of March 1, 2020, through April 30, 2020, have been granted an automatic 60-day extension. Vehicle owners with registrations or license plates expiring in March and April have been granted an automatic two-month extension, and drivers will be able to continue operating their vehicles on Missouri roadways without penalty until they can apply for renewal.
Small businesses have been hit hard by the coronavirus outbreak, but can look for some relief soon. On March 21, the Missouri Department of Economic Development announced the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) approved Missouri’s request for assistance through the federal agency’s disaster loan program. This move will make low interest disaster loans available to small businesses and private non-profits severely impacted by the coronavirus. SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance for each affected small business or non-profit. The deadline to apply is Dec. 21, 2020. More information about the loans and how to apply can be found at SBA’s website.
It also bears repeating that as government responds to this situation, there are still steps all of us should be taking to stay safe and healthy. Keep practicing social distancing and stay at home as much as possible, especially if you or someone in your family is sick. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. Use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol if soap is not available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. By taking these few extra precautions, I know we can get through this.
Please feel free to contact my office at (573) 751-2076. For information about my committee assignments or sponsored legislation, please visit my official Missouri Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Bernskoetter.