FR 2025-07262

The recent notice from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) outlines an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) declaration for the state of Idaho. This declaration was made necessary due to a significant landslide on Highway 95, an incident that began on March 16, 2025, and continues to impact the region. Businesses and individuals in affected areas are encouraged to apply for financial assistance through the MySBA Loan Portal, with the application deadline set for January 21, 2026.

General Summary

The EIDL declaration for Idaho provides an opportunity for businesses affected by the Highway 95 landslide to access financial support essential for recovery. The declaration includes several counties in Idaho and two in Oregon, specifically highlighting the areas that are primary and contiguous to the damage. This initiative aims to mitigate economic damages suffered by communities in the affected regions.

Significant Issues and Concerns

There are several concerns associated with the implementation of this disaster loan program:

• Unspecified Financial Allocation: The document does not clarify the total financial aid available through the EIDL, leaving potential applicants uncertain about the scale of resources they can expect.

• Online Application Process: The reliance on an online portal for applications could pose challenges for individuals in rural or under-resourced areas with limited internet access, potentially excluding some of those who need assistance most.

• Eligibility Criteria: There is a lack of clear eligibility criteria included in the notice. Without such details, businesses may be unsure if they meet the requirements to qualify for assistance, potentially discouraging some from applying.

• Vague References to Local Application Options: Although the notice mentions the availability of local locations for application submissions, it lacks specifics about where these are or how information about them will be disseminated.

• Incomplete Interest Rate Information: The document references interest rates but fails to disclose the rates themselves, leaving applicants in a lurch when attempting to calculate potential loan costs.

Impact on the Public

Broadly, the EIDL declaration is intended to alleviate the economic burden on businesses affected by the disaster in Idaho and nearby Oregon counties. By offering loans, the SBA seeks to support recovery efforts and stabilize the local economy. However, the concerns noted may limit the program's effectiveness in reaching and aiding all impacted stakeholders.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Business Owners: Businesses operating in the specified areas stand to benefit greatly from these loans, provided they receive adequate communication about application processes and eligibility. However, the lack of specificity concerning financial allocation and eligibility could create barriers.

• Rural Communities: Individuals and businesses in more remote or rural areas might face additional hurdles due to internet accessibility issues, potentially leading to disparities in who receives aid.

• Financial Planners and Consultants: Professionals advising businesses on recovery strategies may experience challenges in providing guidance due to the lack of clear information regarding application specifics and financial allocations.

In summary, the SBA's EIDL declaration presents a crucial opportunity for financial recovery in light of the Highway 95 landslide. Nevertheless, addressing the aforementioned issues could significantly enhance the program's reach and effectiveness among those in need.