PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – Many businesses were able to continue in operation through the pandemic due to government help like the Payroll Protection Plan and other grant and loan programs.

Dave Owen, President of the South Dakota Chamber of Commerce and Industry, says those programs were a vital bridge.

Owen says the business help from the state was also helpful, but didn’t go far.

Owen says if there is another round of federal economic assistance, it should be targeted by industry.

There is still a slim chance Congress could pass another stimulus bill during the lame duck session.