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Small Business Advocacy Improvements Act of 2019

Floor Speech

Date: Jan. 8, 2019
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Business and Consumers

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Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 128) to clarify the primary functions and duties of the Office of Advocacy of the Small Business Administration, and for other purposes.

The Clerk read the title of the bill.

The text of the bill is as follows: H.R. 128

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Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 128, the Small Business Advocacy Improvements Act.

There are nearly 30 million small businesses in the United States representing more than 99 percent of all businesses. These small firms employ nearly 50 percent of all private-sector employees in the U.S. The SBA Office of Advocacy represents an important tool for these businesses because it is their voice that the office embodies in all matters of government.

Clarifying the authority of Advocacy to examine international economic data and represent small business interests in international discussions, particularly in trade negotiations, raises the ability of small American firms to participate in a global market. The office has already been participating in various international working groups on regulatory cooperation and trade initiatives with the sole focus of protecting and raising the interests of small businesses.

Their unique knowledge is necessary in trade negotiations to prevent indirect consequences from harming small firms and providing a more equitable playing field within international trade. That is why I urge my colleagues to support the bill.

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Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers, and I reserve the balance of my time.

There is no question that we need to support our small businesses across the country, no matter their location or industry, when they are attempting to break into international commerce.

Today's bill leverages the unique position and knowledge of the SBA's Office of Advocacy to amplify the voice of small firms in international settings. Today is an important step to break down international barriers for small entrepreneurs entering into the world of trade.

Finally, I thank the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Comer), for his diligence on this matter.

Mr. Speaker, I urge Members to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.


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