Keystone Today

House Republican lawmakers have created a task force that they hope will help the economy recover by supporting businesses coming back from shutdowns or those who are operating during pandemic restrictions.

Republican House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff has announced this in a press conference.

“Pennsylvania can be an example for the rest of the country, how to move forward, how to learn what we’ve been through, how to build and recover, how to move past the challenges of a difficult time,” Benninghoff said.

Rep. Aaron Kaufer (R-Luzerne County) will be coordinating the efforts of the caucus. Kauffer said that the multiple shutdowns have resulted in the loss of many jobs and business closures.

"The task force will be creating a roadmap that should produce tangible results, provide assistance without hurting the budget, support businesses to flourish, stand strong and truly become as Leader Benninghoff said, the envy of the East,” Kauffer said.

The announcement followed a few hours after the National Federation of Independent Businesses reported a "very large drop in optimism among small businesses nationwide,” The Morning Call reported.

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce CEO and President Tony Iannelli was pleased to know about the task force. He proposed tax relief and grant programs as potential means of assistance.

Referring to the lawmakers, “at least, from a psychological standpoint, it shows that they are aware and they care,” Iannelli said.