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Feb. 24, 2025 16:00-17:23 - CSPAN

01:22:55

U.S. House of Representatives U.S. House of Representatives

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Participants

Main

nydia velazquez

rep/d 17:33

roger williams

rep/r 12:09

Appearances

gil cisneros

rep/d 02:11

herb conaway

rep/d 02:12

jeff van drew

rep/r 01:55

john joyce

rep/r 02:20

johnny olszewski

rep/d 03:02

judy chu

rep/d 02:16

kelly morrison

rep/d 03:26

lamonica mciver

rep/d 01:37

lateefah simon

rep/d 03:45

maggie goodlander

rep/d 02:45

mark alford

rep/r 02:39

pete stauber

rep/r 03:01

shri thanedar

rep/d 02:15

tylease alli

01:17

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Speaker	Time	Text
Assisting Honest Small Businesses 00:04:26
unidentified		As just sort of the cost of doing business, it's just not acceptable.
		In fact, last year there was a true cost of fraud report that shows that every dollar of fraud actually costs $4.04.
		And if you take that dollar benefits out of that amount, you're still looking at $1.52 being the cost borne by the states and that $2.52 being borne by the federal government.
		Fraud is extensive.
		The other point that I'd like to make is that it's not just siloed in one program.
		So, for example, if you apply for Social Security insurance for the disability and you receive it, it's a two-year certification.
		You're also going to be put on Medicaid, which at capitation rates of about $14,000 a year per person.
		You can watch the rest of this on the free C-SPAN Now video app.
		We leave it to take you over to Capitol Hill where the House is gaveling in.
		Live coverage here on C-SPAN.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		On motions to suspend the roles on which a recorded vote or the yays and nays are ordered or votes objected to under Clause 6 of Roll 20.
		The House will resume proceedings on postponed questions at a later time.
		For what purpose does the gentleman from Texas seek recognition?
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 825, the Assisting Small Business Not Fraudsters Act.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The clerk will report the title of the bill.
tylease alli ▲ ● ▼		H.R. 825, a bill to prohibit individuals convicted of defrauding the government from receiving any assistance from the Small Business Administration and for other purposes.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		Pursuant to the role, the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Williams, and the gentlewoman from New York, Ms. Valez-Quez, each will control 20 minutes.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the bill.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		Without objection.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentleman is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 825, the Assisting Small Business Not Fraudsters Act.
		SBA financial assistance programs are critical to entrepreneurs.
		Unfortunately, fraudsters infiltrated pandemic-era loans at an alarming rate.
		An estimated $200 billion stolen from honest, hardworking small businesses that needed help when they were forced to close their doors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
		The harm these fraudsters cause small business is devastating to see.
		My bill creates accountability and ensures fraudsters are banned from receiving SBA resources for the rest of their lives.
		And as chairman of the House Committee on Small Business, my duty to support America's small business, not fraudsters.
		I ask for your support in prioritizing honest, hardworking small business owners over those who defrauded the government, and I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas reserves.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentlewoman from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I am pleased to be here today as we debate the first set of small businesses bills.
		Our committee has a long tradition of putting politics aside to deliver for our nation's small employers.
		Small businesses employ roughly half of the private workforce, create the majority of new jobs, drive innovation, and generate almost half of our nation's economic activity.
		They are the heart and soul of our communities, whether it is a neighborhood child care center or a bakery on Main Street.
		They're creating neighborhood jobs and reinvesting in the local economies.
		More than 21 million small businesses were launched during the previous administration, with a vast majority of the applications being filed by women, including women of color.
		This is a clear indicator of positive growth and strong entrepreneurial activity.
		But more work needs to be done.
Bipartisan Bills for Entrepreneurs 00:03:30
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		And today, we are considering seven bipartisan bills that will create additional opportunities for entrepreneurs.
		With that said, my hope is that we can work together to conduct oversight of the Trump administration's policies.
		I have been particularly troubled by the possessions in federal funding to small businesses, inflationary tariffs, and Elon Musk's access to the SBA HR contract and payment systems.
		I welcome the opportunity to look into these matters in a bipartisan way.
		Turning to our first bill, H.R. 825, will prohibit anyone convicted of defrauding the government during the COVID-19 pandemic from receiving any SBA loan.
		The Small Business Administration disbursed approximately $1.2 trillion in economic aid during the pandemic.
		The vast majority of this aid serves as a lifeline, helping to keep small businesses afloat during troubling and uncertain economic times.
		Unfortunately, bad actors took advantage of the program early in the pandemic when SBA removed or weakened internal controls.
		Upon taking office, the Biden administration reinstituted long-standing anti-fraud controls and put new safeguards into place to curb the flow of pandemic dollars to froster.
		Before issuing a loan, the SBA will screen applicants on the government's do not pay list and then checks its internal database for fraudulent flags or holds.
		Borrowers had an opportunity to clear their names, but the SBA did not move forward until the holds were cleared.
		The bill we are considering today has the same effect as the actions taken by the Biden administration, and it sends a strong message that SBA will not do business with anyone who defrauded the government.
		With that said, the single most important action Congress can take to recover fraudulent pandemic funds is to fully fund the Inspector General and give the office the resources it needs to go after the bad actors.
		Former Representative Luke Meyer and I sponsored two bills which became law to extend the statute of limitations for fraud in the PPP and the IDO program to 10 years.
		Without additional resources, the OIG will not be able to capitalize on these new laws, and American taxpayers will lose out.
		In closing, I appreciate the bipartisan work of Chairman Williams, Representative Simon, and Mr. Nfume.
		I urge my colleagues to support their legislation.
		I reserve the balance of my time.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentlewoman from New York Reserves, the gentleman from Texas, is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		This important legislation will hold these fraudsters accountable.
Supporting Small Business Advocacy 00:15:49
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		And I urge my colleagues to support it.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		And with that, I reserve the balance of my time.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentleman from Texas Reserves, the gentlewoman from New York, is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield three minutes to the gentlelady from California, Ms. Simon.
tylease alli ▲ ● ▼		Thank you.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentlewoman is recognized.
lateefah simon ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ranking Member Velasquez, for this opportunity to speak.
		And thank you to our wonderful chairman, Chairman Williams, for working with me to introduce this bill.
		I urge my colleagues to support this effort to prioritize small businesses in the future through funding opportunities by preventing pandemic fraudsters from accessing federal small business funds.
		Like other communities around the United States, in California's 12th district, small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities.
		Over 29,000 small businesses in our district bolster our region.
		These businesses struggled throughout the pandemic.
		And in Oakland's downtown, for instance, many of these institutions are fighting day in and day out just to stay afloat.
		The small business administration employees who work hard to support them, I thank you.
		You all, these wonderful federal employees, you all have been connecting with small businesses in our district with emergency assistance, access to capital, and even advice about how to keep the doors open in the darkest times, how to pay your workers, and how to be strong service members in our community.
		These federal workers that I speak of, I've heard from many of them, and I gotta say, they've been under assault by this current administration.
		Just last month, I visited the Small Business Administration field office, and less than two hours after I left, two of those employees had received layoff notices.
		You see, firing federal employees in this moment does not decrease the need or importance of the agency.
		It just makes it harder for entrepreneurs, for restaurantiers, for child care operators, and others to keep their employees paid, to keep their doors open, to keep our downtowns thriving.
		Every dollar that Congress gives to the Small Business Administration in this moment means the difference of a small business opening, employing folks, or filing for bankruptcy.
		The Small Business Administration has provided $1.2 trillion, excuse me, let me say that again, $1.2 trillion in paycheck protection program loans and other emergency assistance during the pandemic.
		And like my ranking member has told us, unfortunately, there have been serious bad actors who took advantage of these funds, and those folks defrauded not only the government, they defrauded the mom and pop shops on Main Street and in my case on Broadway.
		Those dollars could have been used to create jobs, revitalize communities, and to help these businesses stay open and thrive.
		But instead, these fraudsters took advantage of the lax application screenings, which we believe may have resulted in 17% of the total small business administration assistance.
		As a result, the Biden administration has created new safeguards to reduce the potential for this fraud.
		But this legislation that's supported by our committee would build on this effort, making convicted fraudsters ineligible for federal small business assistance.
		As someone who has driven a payroll for over 30 years, I can't express how important this legislation is at this moment.
		We love and want to support our small businesses with all that we have.
		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
judy chu ▲ ● ▼		Thank you.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentlelady reserves.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		I reserve the balance of my time.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentleman reserves.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentlewoman from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield two minutes to the gentleman from Maryland, Mr. Olszewski.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentleman from Maryland is recognized.
johnny olszewski ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I thank the Ranking Member for yielding.
		I also want to thank the Chairman for bringing this legislation forward, along with my colleague from California.
		I rise today in strong support of the Assisting Small Business, Not Fraudsters Act, legislation that will help ensure small businesses that need and deserve support gets it, while cutting out fraudsters seeking to exploit vital relief programs.
		Small businesses are the backbone of our economy.
		They create jobs, they foster innovation, and they drive our local communities forward.
		They should be who we lift up and support, and they rightly are the beneficiaries of many small business administration programs.
		However, far too often, we have scammers take advantage of these worthy programs.
		We saw this, for example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the PayTech Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program, and other relief funds were a lifeline for so many, but were also exploited by bad actors to the tune of an estimated $36 billion.
		This bill ensures that will no longer happen again.
		It protects taxpayer dollars, ensuring they go where Congress intended, only to the legitimate small businesses of our country.
		Again, I want to thank my colleagues for bringing this forward.
		Government efficiency is a good thing, but there's a right way to go about it, a legal way to go about it, and this bill is a great example, a bipartisan way to go forward.
		I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and with that, I yield back.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentleman yields.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, we have no further speakers, and I am prepared to close.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentleman reserves.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentlewoman from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I am gladly rise in support of this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentlewoman yields.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I urge my colleagues to support this common sense legislation, and I yield back.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The question is: will the House suspend the roles and pass the bill H.R. 825?
		Those in favor say aye.
		Those opposed, no.
		In the opinion of the chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the roles are suspended.
		The bill is passed, and without objection, the motion to reconsider purposes of member asks for the yays and the nays.
		The yays and nays are requested.
		All those in favor of taking this vote by the yays and nays will rise and remain standing until counted.
		A sufficient number have risen.
		The yeas and nays are ordered.
		Pursuant to clause 8 of Roll 20, further proceedings on this question will be postponed.
		For what purpose does the gentleman from Texas seek recognition?
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 832, the Small Business Advocacy Improvements Act of 2025.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The clerk will report the title of the bill.
tylease alli ▲ ● ▼		H.R. 832, a bill to clarify the primary functions and duties of the Office of Advocacy of the Small Business Administration and for other purposes.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		Pursuant to the role, the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Williams, and the gentlewoman from New York, Ms. Velazquez, each will control 20 minutes.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the bill.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		Without objection.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
john joyce ▲ ● ▼		The gentleman from Texas is acknowledged.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 832, better known as the Small Business Advocacy Improvement Act.
		I want to thank my colleagues, Representative Van Drew, Tran, and Goodlander, for joining me in support of this critical legislation.
		By design, the SBA Office of Advocacy acts as the independent voice representing the views and interests of all small businesses within the federal government.
		This means calling attention to harmful regulations and inefficient rules preventing the small businesses from competing for government contacts.
		This legislation will clarify the functions and the duties of the SBA Office of Advocacy when advocating for small business on the world stage, specifically when regulatory and international trade initiatives are being developed.
		Small businesses' voices can easily be drowned out during these important conversations.
		This legislation fixes that problem by ensuring the views of Main Street are represented and heard before foreign governments and international entities.
		My hope is that this Congress is that we can continue to look for bipartisan ways to make the SBA Office of Advocacy more effective in helping our American small businesses.
		With that, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		The Gentleman Reserves, the gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I yield myself such time as I may consume.
		Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 832, the Small Business Advocacy Improvements Act of 2025.
		The Office of Advocacy was established in 1976 to be an independent voice for small businesses within the federal government, and it is tasked with representing the views of small businesses before Congress, the White House, and other federal agencies.
		The office has regional advocates on the ground that provide outreach to small businesses, local chambers of commerce, and other associations to hear firsthand the concerns of small businesses.
		And it works closely with federal agencies to elevate these concerns throughout the rulemaking process.
		Over the years, their work has saved small businesses billions in regulatory costs while still accomplishing the important goals of their regulations.
		However, their charter does not specifically state that they have the authority to represent the views and interests of small businesses before foreign governments and international entities.
		As our economy has become increasingly more interconnected and more small businesses are tapping into international markets, it makes sense to give the office the authority to advocate on behalf of small businesses overseas.
		Advocacy has proven to be a strong proponent for small businesses in the federal government, and it is well poised to promote their views in the international regulatory arena.
		I want to thank Mr. Williams, Mr. Tran, Mr. Van Treeu, and Ms. Goodlander for their bipartisan work on this bill.
		I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		Gentlelady Reserves, the gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		At this time, I also reserve the time we have.
unidentified		The Gentleman Reserves, the gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield two minutes to the gentleman from California, Mr. Tran.
unidentified		Gentleman is recognized.
		Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support H.R. 832, the Small Business Advocacy Improvement Act.
		This bipartisan bill will provide small businesses with improved access to international markets by expanding the function and duties of SBA's Office of Advocacy.
		In particular, the bill authorizes the Office to represent the views and interests of small businesses in international discussions and analyze international economic data for the benefit of America's small business owners.
		As the world becomes more and more connected, participating in the global economy is vital to small businesses' success.
		I proudly represent California's 45th congressional district, an international hub for America's small businesses.
		Businesses in my district connect with diverse companies and international markets every day and are a dynamic part of the economic engine driving Southern California.
		Over 90,000 small businesses call Orange County home, including many in Little Saigon, where exporting and importing goods and working with partners overseas is an important part of their success and allows them to grow.
		This bill will ensure that small businesses have a strong voice advocating on their behalf regarding international matters and help us to better understand how international economies impact our nationals, our nation's small businesses.
		I am proud to be a co-lead of this bill, and I want to thank Chairman Williams and Ranking Member Velasquez for working together to advance this bill to the floor, as well as my colleagues, Congressman Van Drew from New Jersey and Congresswoman Goodlander from New Hampshire, for working with me to improve SBA's Office of Advocacy.
		Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this important bipartisan bill.
		I yield back my time.
		Gentleman Yields to the gentlelady from New York.
		Reserves.
		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas Reserves, the gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield three minutes to the gentlelady from New Hampshire, Ms. Goodlander.
maggie goodlander ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Ranking Member Velasquez.
		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I rise today as the proud great-granddaughter, granddaughter, and daughter of New Hampshire small business owners.
		I proudly represent New Hampshire on the Small Business Committee here in the House of Representatives.
		And today, I'm very proud to be a co-sponsor of this important bipartisan legislation and to rise in support of it, H.R. 832, the Small Business Advocacy Improvement Act.
		I'm very proud to be doing this together with you, Mr. Chairman, with Congressman Van Drew, and with Congressman Tran.
		You know, my family's small business story is an American story, it's a New Hampshire story.
		My home state is home to more than 136,000 small businesses.
		That's 99% of all New Hampshire businesses, and more than 305,000 small business employees.
		Small businesses are truly the beating heart of New Hampshire's economy.
		And from our cutting-edge aerospace and life sciences companies to our retailers on main streets from my hometown, Nashua, all the way up to the North Country, New Hampshire small businesses are truly world-class.
		But at a moment when big businesses, our economy is more consolidated in so many industries than ever before, and small businesses are living through some of the most truly uncertain times in American history.
		From the threats of federal funding freezes to the threats of trade wars against our neighbors and allies, in Congress, I'm fighting every single day to ensure that New Hampshire small businesses get true advocates and a seat at the table in trade negotiations and in discussions that impact our international and interconnected economy.
		We're looking for a level playing field for small businesses to compete and equal access to critical federal resources.
		So as I've traveled all across New Hampshire, I've heard directly from small business owners and employees about the concerns they have about the use of tariffs, which are an important tool in leveling the economic playing field, but that will have a real impact on our small businesses in New Hampshire.
Proud Advocate for Small Businesses 00:00:52
maggie goodlander ▲ ● ▼		I'm really proud to be a part of co-sponsoring this legislation because what it's going to do is it's a common sense solution to empower an important office within the Small Business Administration, the Office of Advocacy, to represent small businesses on international issues.
		It's a critically important seat at the table for our small businesses at a time when they need advocates here in Congress and throughout the executive branch.
		So I'm very proud to be a part of this legislation.
		I thank you, Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Vlasquez, for keeping the Small Business Committee one of the most bipartisan committees in Congress.
		And with that, I thank you and yield back.
Supporting SPURS Act 00:10:50
unidentified		Gentlelady Yields.
		The gentlelady from New York reserves.
		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, we have no further speakers, and I am prepared to close.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas is prepared to close the reserves.
unidentified		The gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote yes on H.R. 832, and I yield back the balance of my time.
unidentified		Gentlelady yields.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		I urge my colleagues who support this common sense legislation, and I yield back.
unidentified		The gentleman that yields.
		The question is: will the House suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 832?
		Those in favor say aye.
		Aye.
		Those opposed.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		The yays.
unidentified		No.
		Chair two-thirds being in the affirmative rules and the bills passed.
		And without objection, the motion re-elected the gentleman from Texas seek recognition?
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I ask for the yeas and nays.
unidentified		The yeas and nays are requested.
		All those in favor of taking this vote by the yeas and nays will rise and remain standing until counted.
		A sufficient number having risen, the yeas and nays are ordered pursuant to clause 8 of Rule 20.
		Further proceedings on this question will be postponed.
		For what purpose does the gentleman from Texas seek recognition?
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 818, the SPUR Act.
unidentified		The clerk will report the title of the bill.
tylease alli ▲ ● ▼		H.R. 818, a bill to amend the Small Business Act to include requirements relating to new small business entrants into the scorecard program and for other purposes.
unidentified		Pursuant to the rule of the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Williams, and the gentlewoman from New York, Ms. Velasquez, each will control 20 minutes.
unidentified		The chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the bill.
unidentified		Without objection.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
unidentified		Recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I rise in full support of H.R. 818, the SPUR Act, led by my colleagues Representative Staubers, Cisneros, and Perez.
		The SPUR Act is crucial in assessing the federal government's progress in bringing in new companies and expanding the industrial base.
		Understanding the number of new small businesses engaged in government contracting will highlight the concerning decline in industrial base participation and track agencies' progress rebuilding it.
		Small businesses are an essential component of the United States industrial base.
		Despite their importance, over the last few decades, small businesses have been squeezed out of the industrial base at an alarming rate, which nearly half of the businesses leaving over the past 10 years.
		This threatens America's economic interests and strategic readiness, which must be remedied.
		Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to vote for H.R. 818, and I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas reserves.
unidentified		The gentlewoman from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I commend Representatives Stauber and Cisnero for their work to bring this important bipartisan legislation to the floor today.
		Mr. Speaker, Congress and the executive branch have carefully crafted fair and deliberate policies to ensure that small businesses can compete for federal contracts.
		These policies, including and especially the small business procurement goals and set-aside authorities, have leveled the playing field for small businesses and enabled their participation in the federal marketplace.
		And they have a proven record of success.
		Federal agencies award a record amount of contracting dollars to small businesses each year.
		However, many other factors, complexities and policies like category management and overly strict past performance requirements, are countering the impact of these programs.
		As a result, the government has over 40% fewer small businesses in its ecosystem than it did just a decade ago.
		This trend means that fewer small businesses are getting larger contracts, and contracts are becoming out of reach of many small businesses, especially those who are not already government contractors.
		The legislation is a productive step that will help break that cycle.
		The SPUR Act will require SBA to take into account new small business government contractors when grading a federal agency's performance toward meeting its small business goal.
		I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		The gentleman from New York Reserves, the gentleman from Texas, is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		And at this time, I'd like to yield as much time as he may consume to Mr. Stauber from the great state of Minnesota.
unidentified		The gentleman is recognized.
pete stauber ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I rise today in strong support of my bill, the Small Business Procurement and Utilization Reform Act, also known as the SPUR Act.
		I want to begin by thanking my colleagues and friends from California and Washington, respectively, Representative Cesneros and Guzenkamp-Peres, for their support of this critical legislation.
		Small businesses are the backbone of our economy.
		They are the innovators, the job creators, and the driving force behind economic growth.
		In Minnesota, small businesses account for over 99% of all businesses and employ over half of the workforce.
		It is no exaggeration to say that the success of our economy is tied to the success of our small businesses.
		Despite government set-asides meant to help small businesses compete, participation in federal contracting has dropped by 50% over just this past decade.
		That means fewer small businesses are securing federal contracts and fewer are benefiting from the opportunity to grow and innovate.
		The federal government is the largest purchaser of goods and services in the world.
		If we are serious about supporting small businesses, we need to ensure they have a fair shot at competing for these contracts.
		Right now, the scorecard system measures whether agencies are meeting their small business contracting goals, but it fails to consider how many of those contracts go to first-time participants.
		Without this data, we don't know if new small businesses are successfully entering the marketplace or if the same firms are winning contracts year after year.
		If small businesses can't break into federal contracting, innovation is stifled, costs for taxpayers increases, and American entrepreneurs lose out on opportunities to grow.
		My bill, the SPUR Act, addresses this issue by requiring the SBA to track and report the number of new small business participants into the federal procurement space.
		This simple but crucial change will ensure that small businesses, especially new and growing ones, have a fair shot at competing.
		Too many federal agencies fall short of their small business contracting goals, leaving billions of dollars in contracts out of reach for American entrepreneurs.
		The SPUR Act will provide transparency and accountability, ensuring that the federal government is doing its part to support small businesses.
		I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation.
		Mr. Chair, before I yield back, Mr. Chair, you're from the great state of New York.
		45 years ago, tonight, Team USA, led by Herb Brooks and 12 Minnesotans, beat Finland for the gold medal.
		And I want to congratulate them 45 years later, and I yield back.
unidentified		Gentleman Yields.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		Gentlemen from Texas Reserves, the gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield two minutes to the gentleman from California, Mr. Cisnero.
unidentified		Gentleman is recognized.
gil cisneros ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Small Business Procurement and Utilization Reform, or the SPURS Act.
		I want to thank my colleagues, Congressman Stober and Congresswoman Klusen-Camp Perez, for joining me in introducing this bipartisan legislation.
		Mr. Speaker, small business owners and entrepreneurs take a chance when they start their ventures, so it's only right that the federal government do what it can to provide them with a greater opportunity to succeed.
		Because our government plays a vital role in working to keep our economy strong and vibrant, federal contracts can be a great opportunity and boon for our small businesses.
		But the government isn't doing enough to ensure our local small businesses have access to these opportunities.
		We need to not only do more for small businesses with existing federal contracts, but also help attract new small businesses, navigate the federal contracting process.
		The SPURS Act will help ensure more small businesses like those in the San Gabriel Valley, which I represent, can fairly compete for federal contracts.
		The SPURS Act will require federal agencies to examine the following data.
		How many small businesses received a prime contract for the first time and are owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans?
		It will track the concerns of qualified hub-zoned small businesses, track the concerns of businesses controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, and it will track concerns of small businesses owned and controlled by women.
		There are several hub zones in my district, including the cities of El Monte, Covina, Azusa, and La Puente, and there are even more small businesses owned by women and people of color in my district.
		They're working just as hard as other small business owners to realize their dreams, and they deserve to play on the same level playing field as other small business owners that have experience navigating the federal bureaucracy.
		I urge my colleagues to support this common sense, bipartisan piece of legislation.
		And I want to thank you again and thank the co-leads of Congressman Stober and Congressman Glusenkamp Perez.
		And with that, I yield back.
unidentified		Gentlemen from New York Yields.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		I reserve.
unidentified		Penn Reserves, Correct.
unidentified		Gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, we have no further speakers, and I am prepared to close.
Supporting DOE and SBA Research Act 00:12:55
unidentified		Gentlemen from Texas Reserves.
		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I urge.
		Gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I appreciate the work of my colleagues on this bill, and I urge its adoption.
		I yield back the balance of my time.
unidentified		Gentlelady yields.
unidentified		Gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		I urge my colleagues to support this common sense legislation, and I yield back.
unidentified		The question is, will the House suspend the rules and pass House Resolution 818?
		Those in favor will say aye.
		Correct.
		The question is, will the House suspend the rules and pass House Resolution 818?
		Those in favor will say aye.
		Those opposed, no.
		In the opinion of the chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative.
		Mr. Speaker.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		I ask for the yays and nays.
unidentified		The yays and nays are requested.
		All those in favor of taking this vote by the yays and nays will rise and remain standing until counted.
		A sufficient number having risen, the yays and nays are ordered.
		Pursuant to Clause 8 of Rule 20, further proceedings on this question will be postponed.
		For what purpose does the gentleman from Texas seek recognition?
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 788, the DOE and SBA Research Act.
unidentified		The Corporal Reports the title of the bill.
tylease alli ▲ ● ▼		H.R. 788, a bill to provide for Department of Energy and Small Business Administration joint research and development activities and for the purposes.
unidentified		Pursuant to the rule of the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Williams, and the gentlewoman from New York, Ms. Velasquez, will each control 20 minutes.
unidentified		The chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the bill.
unidentified		Without objection.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
unidentified		Gentlemen is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 788, the DOE and SBA Research Act led by my colleagues, Representative LaLoda, Morrison, and Thenender.
		This legislation would require the SBA and DOE to enter a memorandum of understanding to help unify and streamline research efforts between the national labs and American small businesses.
		Currently, the 17 national laboratories across the United States provide the government with some of its most cutting-edge research.
		At the same time, our nation's small businesses contribute extensively to public and private sector research and development efforts.
		Aligning research efforts between the DOE and the SBA would increase the efficiency of the national labs and better integrate small businesses' innovation into government research.
		So, Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to join me in voting for H.R. 788, and I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		The Gentleman Reserves, Gentlelady from New York, is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I yield myself such time as I may consume.
		I rise today in support of H.R. 788, the Department of Energy and SBA Research Act.
		This legislation would allow SBA and the Department of Energy to enter into an MOU to formalize the research and development activities that are currently underway.
		The Department of Energy has 17 national labs that play a crucial role in fostering innovation and driving small business growth.
		The labs form partnerships with small businesses so that they can leverage the expertise of DOE's scientists and also gain access to world-class labs to test new products.
		They also foster networking opportunities that enable small businesses to connect, collaborate, and expand their base.
		These type of partnerships are critical to increasing small business innovation, providing high-paying jobs for Americans, and ensuring our country remains competitive.
		I applaud Mr. La Lora, Dr. Morrison, and Mr. Tanador for their bipartisan work.
		I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		Gentlelady Reserves, the gentleman from Texas, is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		At this time, I would like to yield as much time as he may consume to Mr. La Lota from the great state of New York.
unidentified		The gentleman is recognized.
		Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
		Mr. Speaker, America's small businesses are the backbone of Main Street America, yet too many of them face roadblocks when trying to do business with the federal government's largest buyer, the Department of Energy.
		That's why I proudly introduced the DOE and SBA Research Act, which strengthens the relationship between America's small businesses and the Department of Energy.
		This legislation creates a partnership between the Department of Energy and the Small Business Administration for joint research.
		It expands opportunities for entrepreneurs to fuel innovation and drive economic growth.
		And it provides small businesses with a clear, more direct path to collaborate with our national labs on groundbreaking research and technology development.
		Brookhaven National Laboratory in my district is a perfect example of how small business and Department of Energy partnerships can transform a region into a premier center for scientific innovation.
		The partnerships made possible by the DOE and SBA Research Act will empower Main Street America to contribute to cost-cutting-edge research, drive the Department of Energy's mission, fuel American ingenuity, and keep America at the forefront of scientific innovation and technological advancement.
		I'd like to thank my colleagues, Representatives Morrison and Tanadar, for joining me in introducing this important bipartisan legislation.
		This legislation passed the House with unanimous support last Congress.
		Unfortunately, we couldn't get it over the line in the Senate in time.
		So I'd like to thank Chairman Williams for his support and leadership in getting it back to the floor and across the finish line a second time here in the House.
		We'll get it done this time, Chairman.
		I urge my colleagues to support this common sense legislation, and I yield back.
		General Reserves.
		The gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield two minutes to the gentlelady from Minnesota, Dr. Morrison.
unidentified		Gentlelady is recognized.
kelly morrison ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Ranking Member Velasquez.
		Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 788, the DOE and SBA Research Act.
		As the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy and Supply Chains, I'm proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation with the gentleman from New York, Congressman Laloda, and the gentleman from Michigan, Congressman Tanadar.
		This bill would require the Department of Energy and Small Business Administration to enter into a memorandum of understanding that would improve collaboration between these two agencies.
		This joint agency effort would expand opportunities for small businesses to participate in research and development opportunities at DOE and its national laboratories.
		It is in our economic and national security interest for the United States to remain a leader in RD and technological advancement.
		In order to maximize our impact, we must tap into talent wherever we can find it.
		And too often, small businesses are overlooked when it comes to research and development opportunities.
		Small businesses are not only the backbone of our economy, but they also drive forward American innovation and ingenuity.
		The DOE and SBA Research Act will help ensure that small business owners continue to play a central role in the United States' leadership in these areas.
		I want to thank my colleagues for their collaboration on this critical legislation.
		I'd like to thank Chairman Williams and Ranking Member Velasquez for their support.
		I urge my colleagues to vote yes on this legislation, and I yield back.
unidentified		General Lady Reserves, the gentleman from Texas, is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		At this time, I'd like to yield as much time as he may consume to Mr. Van Drew from the great state of New Jersey.
unidentified		Gentlemen is recognized.
jeff van drew ▲ ● ▼		Good afternoon, Chairman.
		I rise in support of H.R. 788.
		It is a good and innovative bill.
		But I also today wanted to speak in support of H.R. 832, the Small Business Advocacy Improvements Act of 2025.
		I'm proud to join my good friend and a great colleague and a great chairman, Roger Williams, in introducing this bill, which will ensure that American small businesses have a strong voice in trade and on the discussions that take place on the global stage.
		In my home and in my district of southern New Jersey, which is as so much of the United States of America, represents a small business community that are the backbone of our economy and of driving innovation and of creating jobs and of strengthening communities.
		In today's world, small businesses face competition not just from their neighbors, not just from other states, but from businesses and corporations around the globe.
		These businesses face challenges that larger corporations are often better equipped to navigate.
		This bill will clarify on the authority of the Small Business Administration's August August Department and Office of Advocacy to examine international economic data and represent small businesses' interests in trade negotiations, ensuring that our small business people are not left behind.
		America, as we know, it can't exist without small businesses, and this bill will give them a leg up to make the American economy even stronger.
		I urge my colleagues to support both these bills and to support H.R. 832 and stand with America and stand with America's small businesses.
		Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I yield back.
unidentified		The gentleman reserves.
unidentified		The gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield two minutes to the gentleman from Michigan, Mr. Tonador.
unidentified		The gentleman is recognized.
shri thanedar ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I rise to support H.R. 788.
		First of all, I want to thank Chairman Williams and Ranking Member Velasquez for their bipartisan work.
		And, you know, as a serial entrepreneur in the technology innovation sector, I couldn't be happier to stand here and support this bill along with my amazing colleagues, Representative Lelota and Representative Morrison.
		I recognize its indispensable role in enhancing collaboration between the Small Business Administration and the Department of Energy, all in the name of improving research and development efforts.
		And let's not forget, small businesses are a cornerstone of this country.
		The innovation we stimulate within this sector is not just important, it is vital for America's future.
		This legislation does not simply propose research collaboration, it carves a path for our small businesses to lead the way.
		It mandates a collaborative report within two years of its enactment.
		This report will empower us to monitor and comprehend the effectiveness of our research collaboration, providing us with the opportunity to revise and refine strategies as necessary.
		I am excited, and I hope you share my enthusiasm about the potential growth and broadening capabilities the DOE and SBA Research Act promises to bring.
		But let's always keep sight of the ultimate goal of this legislation, creating high-paying jobs for our fellow Americans and safeguarding our nation's competitive edge on the global stage.
		Remember, this isn't just about legislation, it's about future.
		I yield back.
unidentified		The Gentleman Reserves.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, we have no further speakers, and I'm prepared to close.
Investing in Main Street Act 00:15:20
unidentified		Gentleman Reserves.
		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		Gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I thank the sponsors of the bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.
unidentified		And the gentlelady yields back.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I urge my colleagues to support this common sense legislation, and I yield back.
unidentified		The gentleman yields.
		The question is, will the House suspend the rules and pass House Resolution 788?
		H.R. 788.
		Those in favor will say aye.
		Those opposed, no.
		In the opinion of the chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker?
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		I pass for the yays and nays.
unidentified		The gentleman has requested the yays and nays.
		All those in favor of taking this vote by the yays and nays will rise and remain standing until counted.
		A sufficient number having risen, the yays and nays are ordered pursuant to clause 8 of Rule 20.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		further proceedings on this question will be postponed for what purpose does the gentleman from texas seek recognition Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 754, the Investing in Main Street Act.
unidentified		The clerk will report the title of the bill.
tylease alli ▲ ● ▼		H.R. 754, a bill to amend the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to increase the amount that may be invested in small business investment companies.
unidentified		Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Williams, and the gentlelady from New York, Ms. Velasquez, will each control 20 minutes.
unidentified		The chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days and wish to revise and extend their remarks extraneous material on the bill.
unidentified		Without objection.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
unidentified		The gentleman is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 754, the Investing in Main Street Act, led by my colleagues, Representative Chu, Finstead, McIver, and Garbo Reno.
		As chairman of the Small Business Committee, one of my top priorities is expanding access to capital for small businesses.
		The Small Business Investment Company, or the SBIC, program plays a crucial role in this effort by attracting private equity investments to help small businesses grow, create jobs, and strengthen our economy.
		SBIC has been an invaluable tool for investing in small businesses that build critical technologies and support American national security.
		H.R. 754 builds on this success by increasing the maximum allowable investments by the SBICs from 5% to 15% of their excess capital.
		This change will allow more significant private equity dollars to go towards small businesses.
		As we continue working to improve programs that support small businesses, this change will immediately impact our nation's job creators.
		And I want to thank my colleagues from California for introducing this bipartisan solution to expand successful programs that empower the private sector to invest in small businesses.
		I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		The gentleman reserves.
unidentified		The gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I rise in support of the bill before us today, H.R. 754, the Investing in Main Street Act of 2025.
		SBA's Small Business Investment Company Program is a multi-billion dollar investment program designed to bridge the gap between a small business owner's need for capital and traditional sources of financing.
		It achieves this purpose by partnering private and public investments in early stage startup businesses.
		It also gives America's small high-growth companies an opportunity to fund and grow their innovative ideas and create jobs.
		The success of this program can be seen with companies like Apple, Intel and FedEx, which all receive early stage financing from SBICs.
		Today, there are 319 SBIC licensed funds participating in an array of private investment and private credit strategies.
		In 2023 alone, SBIC licensed funds financed approximately $7.2 billion to 1,142 small businesses and startups across the country, creating or sustaining more than 130,000 jobs.
		Importantly, financing provided by SBIC licensed funds to women-owned, minority-owned, and veteran-owned small businesses total almost $670 million in 2023, a 25.7% increase from 2022.
		Yet, we must do more to ensure the program continues to meet demand.
		The Investing in Main Street Act, introduced by my colleagues, Representatives Chu, Finstad, and McKeever, will strengthen and grow the SBIC program by allowing banks and federal savings associations to invest up to 15% of their capital and surplus into SBICs.
		This change will correct a discrepancy caused by a historical drafting oversight and bring the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 in line with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency's National Bank charter percentage requirements.
		No bank laws or regulations will be changed or affected by this bill.
		It will increase the investment capital available to SBICs and allow them to invest more in small businesses.
		I applaud Ms. Chu, Finstad, and McKeever's work on this issue and this bill, and I ask my colleagues to support it.
		I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		Gentlelady Reserves, the gentleman from Texas, is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		At this time, I would like to yield as much time as he may consume to Mr. Finstead from the great state of Minnesota.
unidentified		The gentleman is recognized.
		Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, Chairman Williams, for yielding.
		I rise today in support of H.R. 754, the Investing in Main Street Act, legislation which I am honored to co-lead with my colleague from California.
		The Investing in Main Street Act makes critical improvements to the Small Business Investment Act of 1958, allowing small business investment companies or SBICs to invest more resources in Main Street businesses across southern Minnesota and across the country.
		From Winona to Worthington, small business owners across the district I have the honor to represent rely on early access to capital to start and grow.
		This legislation will spur further investment in our business community and assist business owners in accessing the capital needed to pursue the American dream of owning and operating a small business.
		I'd like to thank Representative Chu for partnering with me on this important legislation, and I urge my colleagues to vote in support of the Investing in Main Street Act.
		And I yield back.
		The Gentleman Reserves, the gentlelady from New York, is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield two minutes to the gentlelady from California, Ms. Chu.
unidentified		The gentlelady is recognized.
judy chu ▲ ● ▼		I rise in strong support of my bill, H.R. 754, the Investing in Main Street Act, which would spur innovation, entrepreneurship, and growth in our small businesses nationwide.
		Currently, banking rules allow financial institutions to invest up to 15% of their capital and surplus in SBICs.
		But small business investing rules cap these same investments far lower at just 5% of capital and surplus.
		The Investing in Main Street Act simply amends this outdated law to align these caps by allowing banks to invest a full 15 percent in SBICs.
		Raising this cap will dramatically increase the amount of investment capital available to our country's small businesses, for whom even small investments can mean so much.
		Already, SBICs have helped marquee American companies like Costco, Apple, and Intel get off the ground back when they were just starting out.
		And SBICs fill a gap in the investment ecosystem and level the playing field for the smallest businesses, which often face the highest barriers to securing investment from traditional private investors.
		The nearly 319 certified SBICs in operation today have invested or committed over $38 billion in small businesses nationwide.
		And in 2023 alone, SBICs provided $7.2 billion in funding to 1,142 small businesses and startups.
		By raising the investment cap from 5% to 15%, we could potentially triple those numbers in the years to come and drive revitalization in communities across the country.
		I want to thank Representatives Finstad, McIver, and Gabareno for their partnership in this legislation and Chairman Williams and Ranking Member Velasquez for their strong support.
		I urge my colleagues to vote yes on this bill and for the Senate to expeditiously take it up so that we can unlock more of the potential of Americans' entrepreneurs.
		I yield back.
unidentified		The gentlelady reserves.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		We reserve.
unidentified		The gentleman reserves.
unidentified		The gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield two minutes to the gentlelady from New Jersey, Ms. McKeever.
unidentified		The gentlelady is recognized.
lamonica mciver ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, small businesses are the backbone of our local economy.
		COVID-19 shuttered the doors of many beloved local businesses, and many more are still continuing on the path of financial recovery.
		Now, with sky-high prices and rising inflation, small businesses need our support more than ever.
		Today, I join RepCHU to reintroduce the Investing in Main Street Act of 2025 to increase access to capital for small businesses who need it.
		This bill amends the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 by increasing the amount that certain banks and savings associations may invest in small businesses and small business investment companies from 5% to 15%.
		As the ranking member on the Small Business Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access, I know firsthand the challenges business owners face.
		Small businesses contribute so much to our communities.
		In fact, they make up over 40% of our nation's GDP, and it's time we give back to our hardworking businesses, our hardworking business owners.
		These additional investments will create more jobs, allow existing businesses to expand and thrive, and reduce barriers to entry for small businesses looking to get off the ground.
		I'm grateful to RepCHU for leading the charge on this essential improvement to SBIC funding, and I'm proud to co-lead this crucial bill.
		Thank you to Chairman Williams and to my ranking member, Rep Velazquez.
		I encourage my colleagues to support this bill.
		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I yield back.
unidentified		The gentlelady reserves.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, we have no further speakers, and I'm prepared to close.
unidentified		The gentleman reserves.
unidentified		The gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I want to applaud the work by Representatives Tru, Finstadt and McKeever for their bipartisan work on this bill.
		I encourage all my colleagues to vote yes and I yield back the balance of my time.
unidentified		The gentlelady yields.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I urge my colleagues to support this common sense legislation, and I yield back.
unidentified		The question is, will the House suspend the rules and pass H.R. 754?
		Those in favor will say aye.
		Those opposed, no.
		In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the rules are suspended.
		The bill is passed, and without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table.
		For what purpose does the gentleman from Texas seek recognition?
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I have to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 804, the Small Business Resilience Act.
unidentified		The clerk will report the bill.
tylease alli ▲ ● ▼		H.R. 804, a bill to require the administrator of the Small Business Administration to improve access to disaster assistance for individuals located in rural areas and for other purposes.
unidentified		Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Williams, and the gentlelady from New York, Ms. Velasquez, each will control 20 minutes.
unidentified		The chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days and wish to revise and extend their remarks and exclude extraneous material on the bill.
unidentified		Without objection?
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
unidentified		The gentleman is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 804, the Rural Small Business Resilience Act led by my colleagues, Representative Morrison, Downing, Pappas, and Bean.
		As we look ahead to the summer months, many Americans are eager for the warm weather and sunshine.
		But with that comes the reality that hurricane season is approaching, and many communities, particularly in rural America, are still working to recover from the devastating storms of last season, even as we prepare for the next.
		Too often, small businesses and disaster survivors in rural communities are unaware of the critical assistance the SBA provides after disasters.
		That assistance can mean a difference between staying open or shutting down for good.
		Rural small businesses face unique challenges.
		Disaster recovery efforts must be tailored to meet the needs of rural America to ensure that their access to the full range of resources and support they have.
		The Rural Small Business Resilience Act is critical to ensuring SBA disaster assistance is tailored to the needs of rural America.
		As someone who has spent a lifetime in business, I know that getting the correct information to the right people at the right time is key.
		This bill will ensure disaster survivors in rural communities are not left in the dark when they need help the most.
		So I urge all my colleagues to vote for H.R. 804, and I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas Reserves, the gentlelady from New York, is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I yield myself such time as I may consume.
		Mr. Speaker, today we are considering H.R. 804, which will require the SBA to close out the GAO recommendation, ensuring that individuals in rural areas where a disaster declaration has been made have full access to assistance, including targeted outreach and marketing materials.
Alford's Advocacy for Veterans 00:15:10
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		SBA would have one year to close out the recommendation.
		On February 22, 2024, GAO issued a report examining how SBA's disaster loan program assists communities after disasters.
		GAO found that rural areas have characteristics that make recovery difficult, and they face challenges in seeking SBA disaster assistance.
		And while the SBA has taken steps to address challenges to recovery, including portable outreach centers, virtual outreach, and a whole-of-SBA approach, GAO recommended that SBA distinguish between urban and rural communities in its outreach and marketing plan and take actions to mitigate the challenges encountered by rural communities.
		This bill prioritizes SBA efforts to close out this GAO recommendation and focus on our nation's rural communities.
		I commend Dr. Morrison, Mr. Downing, Mr. Pappas, and Mr. Bean for their work on this bill.
		Thank you, and I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas reserves.
unidentified		The gentlelady from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		I yield two minutes to the gentlelady from Minnesota, Dr. Morrison.
unidentified		The gentlelady is recognized.
kelly morrison ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Ranking Member Velasquez.
		Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my legislation, H.R. 804, the Rural Small Business Resilience Act.
		As the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy and Supply Chains, I'm pleased to put forward this common sense bipartisan legislation that will ensure rural small businesses can operate on a level playing field.
		This bill requires the Small Business Administration to ensure that small businesses located in rural areas have full access to SBA disaster assistance in the wake of a natural disaster.
		The SBA's disaster loan program serves as a lifeline for small business owners in need of capital to repair, rebuild, and recover from the physical and economic losses of a natural disaster.
		Unfortunately, the Government Accountability Office recently found that rural communities face unique barriers that inhibit recovery from severe weather events like hurricanes, flooding, and wildfires.
		A lack of reliable broadband, cellular service, or physical infrastructure can make it more difficult for small business owners in these communities to learn about and apply for disaster assistance.
		We also know that natural disasters are becoming more frequent and more severe.
		In my home state of Minnesota, natural disasters have caused about $20 billion in damage and economic loss over the last five years alone.
		And small businesses are among the most vulnerable to injury.
		FEMA has reported that more than 40% of small businesses do not reopen after a natural disaster.
		We can all agree that every small business owner in this country should have fair access to disaster assistance regardless of where they live.
		The Rural Small Business Resilience Act will reach this disparity, will address this disparity by requiring the SBA to conduct targeted outreach to small business owners in rural communities.
		I want to close by thanking the gentleman from Montana, Congressman Downing, the gentleman from New Hampshire, Congressman Pappas, and the gentleman from Florida, Congressman Bean, for their partnership on this important bipartisan legislation.
		I'd also like to thank Chairman Williams and Ranking Member Velasquez for their support for this bill.
		I urge my colleagues to vote yes on this legislation.
		I yield back.
unidentified		The gentleman woman from New York Reserves.
		The gentleman from Texas Reserve.
		The gentleman from Texas Reserves.
		The gentlewoman from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield two minutes to the gentleman from Maryland, Mr. Olszewski.
unidentified		The gentleman from Maryland is recognized.
		We had it.
		Right there.
		That's it.
johnny olszewski ▲ ● ▼		That's fine.
		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		Thank you, Ranking Member Velasquez.
		I'm going to thank also the Chairman again and my colleagues who are leading on this important legislation.
		I rise in support of the bipartisan Rural Small Business Resilience Act.
		My home in Maryland 2 is home to nearly 640,000 small businesses, many of which are in rural communities, all with unique needs and challenges.
		I support this bill because it will help small businesses in rural communities receive the resources they need and the support they need to recover during times of crisis by requiring targeted outreach and marketing materials and requiring a deadline to get it done.
		Small businesses are the heart of our economy.
		That is especially true in our rural communities.
		However, we know that small businesses in rural America often face unique challenges that are often overlooked, especially when it comes to disaster relief programs.
		It's simple.
		We need to make sure that small rural businesses aren't left out when pandemics to hurricanes to everything in between strikes.
		As a county executive, I witnessed firsthand the severe financial pressures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which devastated many small businesses.
		I saw how rural communities in particular struggle with limited resources, reduced access to broadband and cellular services, and longer response times.
		This bill will break down barriers and ensure that rural business owners are aware of and can actively access resources.
		I urge my colleagues on both sides to vote yes and show rural America, our nation's employers, that we are committed to their success.
		With that, I yield back.
unidentified		The gentlewoman from New York reserves, the gentleman from Texas.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, we have no further speakers, and I'm prepared to close our reserve.
unidentified		The gentleman reserves.
unidentified		The gentlewoman from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		I urge members to support the bill and a yield back.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		I bonus my time.
unidentified		Gentlewoman reserves.
		Yields back.
		The gentleman from Texas.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		I urge my colleagues to support this common sense legislation, and I yield back.
unidentified		The question is: will the House suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 804?
		Those in favor say aye.
		Those opposed, no.
		In the opinion of the chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the rules are suspended.
		The bill is passed.
		And with that, the yeas and nays are requested.
		All those in favor of taking this vote by the yeas and nays will rise and remain standing until counted.
		A sufficient number have risen.
		The yeas and nays are ordered.
		Pursuant to clause 8 of Rule 20, further proceedings on this question will be postponed.
		For what purpose does the gentleman from Texas seek recognition?
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 828, the SERV Act.
unidentified		The clerk will report the title of the bill.
tylease alli ▲ ● ▼		H.R. 828, a bill to require the administrator of the small business administration to report on the Veterans Interagency Task Force to require the Comptroller General of the United States to report on access to credit for small business concerns owned and controlled by covered individuals and for other purposes.
unidentified		Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Williams, and the gentlewoman from New York, Ms. Velasquez, each will control 20 minutes.
unidentified		The chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extra anti-material on the bill.
unidentified		Without objection.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 828, the SERV Act, led by my colleagues Representative Davids, Alford, and Conaway.
		It's an honor to reflect on the tremendous contributions of our veterans who have defended our freedoms and continue serving our country once they transition back to civilian life, often on Main Street America.
		Our nation's heroes are uniquely positioned to become successful business owners because of the skills they gained in the military, which have made them natural and effective leaders.
		Unfortunately, veterans often face barriers when starting or growing their businesses.
		Chief among them are access to capital and general awareness of available resources.
		The SERV Act seeks to reduce those barriers by directing the Interagency Task Force on Veterans Small Business Development to create an action plan to improve outreach to veterans and inform them of available resources that directly apply to their unique needs.
		We must work together to ensure that our veterans have access to the tools necessary to start or grow their businesses.
		I want to thank the sponsors of this legislation once again and urge my colleagues to support our veterans and pass the SERV Act.
		I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		The gentleman reserves, the gentlewoman from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I am pleased to support H.R. 828, the Successful Entrepreneurship for Reservists and Veterans Act, also known as the SERV Act.
		Veteran entrepreneurs are powerful economic engines and job creators.
		More than 1.6 million veteran business owners employ nearly 3.3 million Americans and make approximately $983.9 billion in sales.
		With that said, one of the biggest challenges facing veterans-owned small businesses is access to capital.
		Service members report that it can be difficult to build credit while serving overseas.
		And studies have shown that a higher percentage of veterans are turned down for loans.
		There's uncertainty on the scores, the need for investment in veterans-owned small businesses.
		The bill we are considering today will require the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study on the availability of credit to veterans, service disabled, and reserve-owned small businesses.
		I commend Representatives Davis, Alford, and Conaway for their bipartisan work on this bill that will identify barriers and improve SBA's outreach to veterans.
		I reserve the balance of my time.
unidentified		The gentlewoman from New York Reserves, the gentleman from Texas, is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		At this time, I would like to yield as much time as he may consume to Mr. Alford from the great state of Missouri.
unidentified		The gentleman from Missouri is recognized.
mark alford ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		Good to see you, and thank you, Mr. Chair, for your leadership and as well as you, Ranking Member Velasquez.
		Really appreciate what we're able to do on the Small Business Committee for Main Street America.
		I rise today, Mr. Speaker, because as a member of Congress, it is our duty and responsibility to protect and support our nation's veterans.
		You know, back in 2023, it was my distinct pleasure to have Commander Taylor Burks of Missouri's 4th Congressional District testify at a small business committee hearing on veterans entrepreneurship.
		He is now serving a deployment in the Indo-PACOM, so we wish him well.
		We learned not only about the unique skill set that they can bring to small businesses, but also about the obstacles that veterans face many times when trying to open small businesses and live out the American dream.
		It was imperative for members to hear how the committee and the small business administration can better serve those who serve this great nation.
		As a result, my colleague Representative Tarisa Davis and I introduced the Successful Entrepreneurship for Reservists and Veterans, or the SERV Act.
		This bipartisan legislation, which passed through the Small Business Committee unanimously last Congress, will help veteran small business owners and entrepreneurs succeed by studying the barriers faced when starting a business.
		This bill will commission a report on the outreach and promotion of existing veterans-focused small business programs to make sure that veterans can access all the available resources, the capital, and the counseling that they need to succeed.
		Mr. Speaker, this legislation also mandates the Interagency Task Force on Veterans Small Business Development to devise an outreach and promotion strategy for programs available to veterans transitioning into the business world.
		When veterans' service to our country ends, they should not face additional difficulties in accessing capital and resources.
		With transparency and increased reporting, we can better ensure that they get the support that they need and the support that they deserve.
		I am proud to co-lead the SERV Act with Representatives Davis and Conaway.
		This bill, Mr. Speaker, is a win for our districts.
		It is a win for our veterans, and it is a win for our great nation, the United States of America.
		I urge all of my colleagues to support this common sense legislation.
		Thank you, and I yield back.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas Reserves, the gentlewoman from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield two minutes to the main sponsor of the bill, the gentlelady from Kansas, Ms. Davids.
unidentified		The gentlewoman from Kansas is recognized.
		Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the gentlewoman from New York, Ms. Velasquez, for yielding.
		I rise in strong support of the bipartisan Successful Entrepreneurship for Reservists and Veterans Act, or the SERV Act, which I introduced alongside Representatives Alford and Conaway.
		This bill honors our veterans' service by helping them succeed as entrepreneurs and small business owners.
		My mom served in the Army for 20 years, and my grandfather served in the Army as well.
		Through them, I learned about service, leadership, and dedication to the country.
		Our veterans defended our freedoms, and we owe it to them to provide real support when they return home.
		Yet veterans face distinct barriers when starting a business, from accessing capital to overcoming stigmas around disabilities or PTSD.
		These challenges have contributed to a 35% decline in veteran entrepreneurship since World War II.
		The SERV Act addresses these challenges head-on, ensuring veterans have the resources that they need to thrive.
		At a time when harmful federal worker layoffs at the VA are making it harder for veterans to access support, this legislation is more important than ever.
		By strengthening SBA programs, we're investing in our veterans, creating jobs, and boosting our local economies.
		I urge my colleagues to support this bill and show our veterans that we have their backs, both in uniform and beyond.
		Thank you, and I yield back.
		The gentlewoman from New York yields.
		The gentleman from Texas.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Reserve.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas Reserves, a gentleman from New York.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, I yield two minutes to the gentleman from New Jersey, Dr. Conaway.
Supporting Veteran Entrepreneurs 00:03:01
unidentified		The gentleman from New Jersey is recognized.
herb conaway ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I rise today in full support of the Successful Entrepreneurship for Reservists and Veterans Act, otherwise known as the SERV Act.
		This bill will study the barriers that veterans face when starting or owning a small business.
		Starting a small business is not a one-size-fits-all process.
		Each individual encounters unique challenges when striving to open their dream business.
		That is why it is essential that as members of Congress, we support legislative initiatives aimed at identifying and addressing the obstacles that small business owners and entrepreneurs face.
		The SERV Act is one such initiative.
		It will enhance outreach and promotion of existing veteran-focused small business programs, ensuring that veterans can access all available services, resources, capital, and credit.
		This bill will provide a report on the availability of veteran and reservist small business owners access to credit.
		It will require the Small Business Administration's Interagency Task Force on Veterans Small Business Development to develop an action plan for outreach and promotion of the many programs available to veterans transitioning into the small business world.
		It will ensure that the task force reports annually to Congress on its outreach efforts for programs available to veterans, service abled, disabled veterans, reservists, and their spouses.
		For many of our nation's veterans, transitioning back to civilian life can be daunting, especially for those seeking to start their own small business.
		As an Air Force veteran and vice-ranking member on the Veterans Affairs Committee, I believe it is not only crucial but imperative that our government support our nation's veterans in every possible way.
		The SERV Act is a bill that will provide robust support for veteran small business development and help veterans achieve their entrepreneurial goals.
		I want to thank the Chairman Williams and Ranking Member Velasquez for their support of this legislation and moving it forward, and certainly my leads, sponsors Alfred's and Sharice Davids, for their gracious support of me and in helping to sponsor this bill and to move it forward.
		With that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back.
unidentified		The gentlewoman from New York yields.
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Mr. Speaker, we have no further speakers and I'm prepared to close.
unidentified		The gentleman reserves.
unidentified		The gentlewoman from New York is recognized.
nydia velazquez ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
		I applaud Ms. Davids, Mr. Alfor, and Dr. Conaway for their commitment to our nation's veterans, and I urge my colleagues to support 828.
		I yield back.
unidentified		The gentlelady yields back.
Get Essential Contact Info 00:02:41
unidentified		The gentleman from Texas is recognized.
roger williams ▲ ● ▼		Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I urge my colleagues to support this common sense legislation, and I yield back.
unidentified		The question is: will the House suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 828?
		Those in favor say aye.
		Those opposed, no.
		In the opinion of the chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the rules are suspended.
		The bill is passed.
		And without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table.
		Pursuant to Clause 12 of Rule 1, the chair declares the House in recess until approximately 6.30 p.m. today.
		Today in the U.S. House, lawmakers are considering several small business-related bills, including legislation to improve access to disaster assistance for small business owners in rural areas.
		Also, a bill to permanently ban individuals convicted of defrauding the federal government from receiving small business administration assistance.
		Also, the lower chamber is expected to take up the Republicans' budget resolution tomorrow.
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Chapters

00:00:00 Assisting Honest Small Businesses
00:04:11 Bipartisan Bills for Entrepreneurs
00:07:27 Supporting Small Business Advocacy
00:23:17 Proud Advocate for Small Businesses
00:23:55 Supporting SPURS Act
00:34:30 Supporting DOE and SBA Research Act
00:47:10 Investing in Main Street Act
01:02:31 Alford's Advocacy for Veterans
01:17:27 Supporting Veteran Entrepreneurs
01:20:14 Get Essential Contact Info