Special Notice to Industry about COVID-19

As Governor Henry McMaster takes bold steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19, there are some impacts on our industry – from canceled events to postponed travel. He and state epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell assure us that these decisions were not made lightly and can save lives. With his leadership, we will do everything in our power to support the industry and to be ready when South Carolina is in demand again.

Governor McMaster already has asked President Donald Trump for access to Disaster Assistance-Economic Injury Loans from the Small Business Administration to help cover capital and operating expenses our businesses lost due to this crisis. More information, including the rules of engagement and requirements, will be shared by our state emergency response team on their virtual business emergency operations center. SBA services are among several resources the website recommends for business recovery. It also offers information on business continuity, links to helpful tools and a listserv so that businesses can receive ongoing, accurate information.

The best source of information about the state’s response to the Coronavirus remains the official website managed by the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control.

It’s very difficult to find the silver lining amid all that’s going on. But, as Governor McMaster mentioned in a press conference Sunday, we will get through this together as long as we remain calm, have faith in the wisdom of science, and help our fellow neighbors.
 
Governor McMaster closed K-12 schools, universities and technical colleges through March, and prohibits non-essential travel of state employees at this time. He also called for local elections to be postponed until after May 1, and for gatherings of more than 100 people, whether inside or outside, to be delayed until late spring.

He has not, however, recommended closing restaurants or certain other tourism attractions and services at this time. And the RBC Heritage announced Friday there are no plans to make adjustments to their April 13-19 tournament.

We will continue to keep you posted on new and relevant information as we get it. Meanwhile, let’s remember to practice common sense personal prevention via hand washing and social distancing, and remaining calm and informed.

We are looking forward to getting back to normal and promoting South Carolina’s hospitality industry!