Action to Support Oregon’s Small Businesses Facing Extreme Weather
- Find your Oregon state representatives here
- Use the letter below or feel free to share your own story
Dear Representative (Fill In Your Rep’s Name here)
On Valentine’s Eve, small businesses in my neighborhood reluctantly closed or limited our normal business operations due to the snowstorm. Shopping local and supporting small businesses is vital for fostering vibrant, resilient communities. When Oregonians buy from local shops, our money stays within the community, helping to create jobs, support local families, and fund public services. Small businesses bring unique, high-quality products and personalized customer service that larger chains can't match.
Beyond the economic benefits, supporting small businesses strengthens the social fabric of our neighborhood, building connections and preserving the area's character. Every purchase is a vote for innovation, diversity, and sustainability. When small businesses are forced to close due to inclement weather–something that will only become more frequent due to climate-change-induced weather extremes–their success and viability are jeopardized.
This is why I urge you to support HB 2125, providing temporary unemployment benefits to small business employees in response to severe weather events. The passage of this bill would give small business owners a little bit of breathing room during extreme weather events and ensure that their employees have the financial support they need when their work is disrupted.
Sincerely,
Your Name Here