House of Representatives include ‘Save Our Stages’ act into new COVID-19 relief bill

Over the last six months, it is no mystery that COVID-19 has deeply altered the music industry. From struggling artists to small local venues becoming swamped in debt to festival season financial losses, this global pandemic has left thousands in the music scene with more questions than answers. The only guarantee these days is that the scene has been forever changed.

Although times have been strange for the state of dance music, the plight of industry workers has been heard and some good news is finally on the horizon. The Hero’s Act, which originally was passed earlier in the year, is being revisited; this time with the addition of the Save Our Stages Act, which would benefit thousands of creatives in the music scene. If the new coronavirus relief bill is passed through the United States House and the Senate, the bill will allow the Small Business Administration to authorize grants for independent contractors. In addition, millions in federal funding will be distributed to venue owners, producers, event promoters, stage designers, and more. According to the bill,

“The Small Business Administration may make an initial grant of up to $12 million dollars to an eligible operator, promoter, producer, or talent representative, and a supplemental grant that is equal to 50 percent of the initial grant. Such grants shall be used for specified expenses such as payroll costs, rent, utilities, and personal protective equipment.”

If and when the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives passes the bill, the GOP-majority Senate will then decide whether or not the funding will then distributed throughout the country. Although it’s a huge win for the music industry that the bill is even on the table of lawmakers, much in thanks to fans like you who signed the petition, it’s at least evidence of democracy in action. Moreover, federal aid couldn’t come at a more crucial time. Given how the election is currently underway with early and mail-in voting, it’s more important than ever to get to the polls by November 6.

Via: House Appropriations Committee.