State Rep. Tom Saunders STATEHOUSE – Legislation supporting jobs, employers and economic recovery by investing $60 million to expand the Hoosier Hospitality Small Business Restart Grant Program is now law, according to State Rep. Tom Saunders (R-Lewisville). "Small businesses, like our local restaurants and unique tourist attractions, were hit hard by the pandemic," Saunders said. "This dedicated funding builds on the state's continued efforts to support Hoosier entrepreneurs in their recovery and protect jobs." Saunders, who supported the legislation, said many businesses across the state were negatively impacted by the pandemic, especially those in the tourism and hospitality industry, with the National Restaurant Association reporting Indiana restaurant sales dropping 37% from August 2019 to 2020. With this new law, eligible small businesses can receive grants to cover a portion of business and payroll-related expenses.