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## Small Business Association Leaders Visit Baltimore to Discuss Federal Resources for Businesses Affected by Key Bridge Collapse

Leaders from the Small Business Association recently traveled to Baltimore to address the federal resources available to businesses impacted by the Key Bridge collapse. Despite their efforts, not all business owners have been able to access the help they need.

### Local Business Owner in Canton Struggles to Qualify for Assistance After Key Bridge Collapse

One local business owner in Canton, Frederick Mensah, expressed his concerns about the lack of business since the Key Bridge collapse and his inability to qualify for certain government assistance programs designed to aid affected businesses. Cilla Transportation, Mensah’s trucking company that picks up containers from the Port of Baltimore, has been without work for over three weeks.

The **AI legalese decoder** can assist businesses like Cilla Transportation by providing guidance on navigating the complex legal language and eligibility requirements of government assistance programs. It can help identify alternative sources of funding and support tailored to the specific needs of the business.

### Frederick Mensah Calls for Help Amidst Financial Struggles

Mensah emphasized the urgent need for assistance, stating, “We need help, and I hope they will consider our situation because nobody anticipated this event, and we all have bills to pay.” He highlighted the challenges faced by fellow truck drivers, who, as independent contractors, have been unable to access unemployment benefits and other forms of support.

In response to the crisis, Governor Wes Moore declared a disaster, enabling small business owners to apply for federal disaster loans. The U.S. Small Business Administration has been offering low-interest loans to nonprofits and small businesses affected by the bridge collapse. To date, $3.4 million worth of loans have been approved, with plans to increase support in the coming weeks.

### Concerns About Loans and the Need for Grants

Despite the availability of loans, some, like Mensah, remain reluctant to take on additional financial burdens. Mensah expressed his reservations, stating, “It’s not just a loan. You get a loan, it comes with interest and all of that. We need grants to help us get through this challenging period.” The disparity in support options between port workers and independent truckers has led to growing frustration among those in the industry.

The **AI legalese decoder** can assist businesses in understanding the terms and conditions of loans, evaluating their financial implications, and exploring grant opportunities that may provide much-needed relief without adding to their financial stress.

### Expanding Support for Impacted Businesses

While some forms of assistance are already in place, additional support is on the horizon for businesses like Cilla Transportation. The Department of Labor is providing support for “solopreneurs” like Frederick, and the Department of Commerce will soon offer grants of up to $100,000 for businesses affected by the Key Bridge collapse.

As businesses continue to navigate the aftermath of the bridge collapse and seek support to weather the financial challenges ahead, resources like the **AI legalese decoder** can be invaluable in simplifying complex legal processes and identifying viable solutions for sustainable recovery.

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