As part of the COVID-19 relief package approved by Congress, $284 billion has been set aside for a second Paycheck Protection Program.

Dana Keller, director of the Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce, says there are some important points that area small business owners should be aware of as the program rolls out.

To qualify, businesses must show a 25 percent drop in revenue in the fourth quarter compared to the same period a year ago. And they must employ 300 or fewer people.

Keller notes that businesses that received payroll protection when the program was first put in place at the beginning of the pandemic can apply for another round – provided the business meets qualifications.

“This is called ‘second draw,’” she said in an email.

Guidelines for the second draw include a requirement that businesses use their entire PPP loan from the first offering or will in the near future and report a significant loss of revenue.

Nonprofit organizations in the 501 c 6 category are eligible for this round of payroll protection. This is the first time nonprofits have been included in the program.

In the measure, $15 billion has been set aside to aid theaters, museums and concert venues. But this comes in the form of a grant rather than payroll protection and must be supported by plans to remain open.

Congress expanded the way PPP funds can be used, adding worker protection costs, software and other expenses.

“Small businesses create the majority of new jobs in our country and shape the character of the communities they serve,” said U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt in a prepared statement. “Small business owners have done their part to keep people safe during the pandemic. We need to do our part to ensure they have the support they need to stay afloat."