PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – While many small businesses have made it through this pandemic year so far, surviving into the new year may be difficult.

Nathan Sanderson, Executive Director of the South Dakota Retailers Association, says federal assistance made the difference for many businesses.

The South Dakota legislature authorized the use of about $400 million in federal CARES Act funding for small businesses. Sanderson says those dollars are still on the way.

Sanderson says federal rules could be a problem in using some of the state programs.

Some economists fear a rise in business bankruptcies early next year if Members of Congress can’t agree on another economic stimulus plan.