The live entertainment industry has been hit very hard since March shutdown venues and shows across our country. Now, a bipartisan legislation is on the table that would provide relief to those impacted by COVID-19. US Senate minority leader, Chuck Schumer has now given his support to that relief bill.
If passed The Save Our Stages Act would provide aid to independent live venues, promoters and festivals around the United States. It was introduced by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN).
Broadway World reports that according to the The National Independent Venue Association says that is this shutdown lasts six months or longer and there is no federal help 90% of its members would be forced to fold.
On the new bill, Sen. Schumer said,
Independent venues, like theaters and concert halls, are the beating heart of New York's cultural life and a driving force in the economy. These local businesses were among the first to shut down at the start of the pandemic, are struggling to stay afloat, and will be among the last to reopen. That's why it's so important to provide dedicated federal assistance to independent venues so when it is safe, we can gather again for music, comedy, theater and other live performances in venues that have been around for generations. I'm proud to co-sponsor the Save Our Stages Act, and I'll fight to include federal funding for independent venues in any coronavirus relief legislation.
To learn more about this bill, click here.