BALTIMORE – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), a senior member of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, released the following statement applauding the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announcement of a formal disaster declaration following the recent devastating flooding in historic Ellicott City. This declaration will allow homeowners, businesses and non-profit organizations impacted by the epic storms and resultant flood waters to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans, which provide low-interest assistance to help businesses meet their financial obligations and pay ordinary and necessary operating expenses.

“The SBA repeatedly has proven its willingness and ability to help Marylanders struck by crisis. The agency’s expedient decision to provide disaster assistance loans to those harmed by the recent epic floods in historic Ellicott City provides even more proof of the federal commitment to our communities,” said Senator Cardin. “SBA Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet has unwaveringly found ways to help those in need, both nationwide and close to home, and I appreciate the careful attention that she and her colleagues at the SBA have shown Ellicott City. I join the entirety of the Maryland congressional delegation in expressing my sincere thanks to the SBA for the assistance extended to our neighbors in need, and will continue working together with team Maryland to identify additional resources to aid Ellicott City.”

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