Tweet - "SOON: I'll be chairing a @SmallBizCmte hearing focused on @SBAgov's efforts to aid communities and business devastated by the flooding in #Iowa, and across the country. @IowaSBDC director Lisa Shimkat will be testifying."

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"SOON: I'll be chairing a @SmallBizCmte hearing focused on @SBAgov's efforts to aid communities and business devastated by the flooding in #Iowa, and across the country. @IowaSBDC director Lisa Shimkat will be testifying.

In my home state of Iowa, widespread flooding has had a devastating impact, causing an estimated $1.6 billion in damage in Iowa alone with even more damage reported across the Midwest.

Thankfully, as folks begin to rebuild their homes and neighborhoods, they will be aided by the disaster supplemental package that was signed into law earlier this month, which included my amendment for USDA to cover the loss of on-farm stored grain.

During my visits to the disaster areas, I have seen first-hand the devastating impact the flooding had on our small businesses and have met with a number of businesses owners about the challenges they are facing.

The @SBAgov's Office of Disaster Assistance has played an essential role in the recovery effort by providing services & counseling to our small biz owners, but it is important that we continually assess these programs to ensure they're providing effective & timely assistance.

The disaster assistance programs provided by @SBAgov allow victims of a disaster to receive direct loans and working capital for physical damage or economic injury.

These programs have helped homeowners and small businesses alike. However, according to the SBA Inspector General, @SBAgov has continued to have issues delivering expedited relief to disaster victims while mitigating fraud and improper payments.

It is important that as we look to reauthorize the Small Business Act, we remain focused on ensuring we are protecting taxpayer dollars while keenly assisting our communities."

@SenJoniErnst

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