SAN ANTONIO (May 18, 2021) – The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce continues to support

legislation and policies at all levels of government that support small businesses, which are key to our economic recovery.

Recently, several small business members raised concerns regarding the extended unemployment insurance benefit through the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation program, which remains in place until September 4, 2021. In particular, service industry concerns include that the additional $300 weekly unemployment compensation is contributing to the inability to hire, resulting in a number of job openings and threat to business survival.

Today, as Governor Abbott announces opting out of further federal unemployment compensation, effective June 26, 2021, the SAHCC remains optimistic that this decision will accelerate our local economic recovery and help our members improve their ability to meet the fast growing demand for their products

and services.

“The SAHCC remains supportive of opportunities to aid in economic recovery for our small business

community. As COVID-19 cases trend downward, vaccination rates trend upward, and health and safety restrictions are relaxed, this is another step towards returning to our pre-pandemic economy. While we recognize that no single action is the solution, we are encouraged that the decision announced today by Governor Abbott will help restore confidence in our more than 900 members’ ability to hire and retain employees,” said Marina Gonzales, SAHCC President & CEO.

About the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce:

Founded in 1929, America’s first Hispanic Chamber and San Antonio’s only Five-Star accredited organization by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce continues to be the leader in business assistance, connecting its members to needed resources, providing procurement, marketing and networking opportunities, advocating for legislation affecting small businesses and corporations in the San Antonio metropolitan area, and better training to develop the skills of our local workforce.