May 26, 3:10 a.m.
Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley have urged Senate leadership to include economic relief for live venues in Oregon and nationwide as part of any additional response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The senators joined 41 of their colleagues in a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Minority leader Chuck Schumer. The group noted that live event venues were among the first to close as COVID-19 spread and are likely to be among the last to reopen.
The letter said that concerts and live events may not be possible until a vaccine is readily available to the public, which could be many months away if not longer. It said until that time, live event venues will remain shuttered, leaving employees without jobs and businesses without revenue. The letter said the continued closures will also impact numerous contractors, suppliers and business partners that support the live entertainment industry.
The lawmakers wrote that these entertainment hubs are important economic multipliers, generating millions in tax revenue and providing jobs as well as supporting neighboring businesses such as restaurants, hotels and retail.
The letter said Congress has taken swift action to support the economy, but the programs enacted provided little relief to independent venues. The lawmakers said short-term disruption assistance has provided a lifeline for millions of Americans, but businesses that face prolonged closure also need help