Small Business Program Extension and Reform Act of 2011

Floor Speech

* Mr. PETERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for reauthorizing the Small Business Administration, which helps countless entrepreneurs receive the training and access the capital they need to start and expand small businesses and create jobs. While I support the reauthorization of these vital programs, I am concerned with provisions in the underlying bill that would prevent some entrepreneurs from obtaining vital assistance.

* Specifically, H.R. 2608 singles out the e200 Emerging Leaders program for elimination, which targets entrepreneurs in underserved communities across the country like metro Detroit that have been severely impacted in these tough economic times. This program targets businesses in inner cities and economically hard-hit areas that show a high potential for growth, providing them with the network, know-how and resources they need to build a sustainable, growing business that promotes economic development within their communities. This program has a proven track record. Small businesses that complete the program increase their revenues and create jobs where they are needed most.

* In addition to eliminating this vital program, this bill prevents the Small Business Administration from carrying out any succeeding program with similar goals. While I support the underlying reauthorization of the Small Business Administration, I strongly disagree with the elimination of the e200 Emerging Leaders program, and the prohibition of future initiatives that help small businesses thrive in some of the areas hardest hit by the recession

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