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Congressman Troy Carter’s Bill to Uplift Small Business in the Global Economy Passes the House of Representatives

April 26, 2022

 

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, the House of Representatives voted to pass Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr.’s bipartisan bill, the Small Business Advocacy Improvements Act of 2022 (H.R. 128). It was passed without any opposition by voice vote.

The bill clarifies that the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Office of Advocacy has the authority to examine international economic data and represent small business interests in international discussions – particularly in trade negotiations.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. In my home state, they make up over 99% of Louisiana businesses and employ 53% of all workers,” said Congressman Carter. “My district is an international one, containing 3 of the 10 largest ports in the world. Across the nation, today's small businesses operate globally, selling their products and buying goods from countries around the world. Small business concerns must be considered as the United States makes decisions around trade and other international economic issues. I am proud to that my bill, the Small Business Advocacy Improvement Act of 2022 will ensure that our small business owners have advocates in the federal government representing their best interests both at home and abroad. I encourage its swift passage in the Senate.”

The Office of Advocacy has acted as the independent voice for small businesses within the federal government since 1976. This office is also charged with overseeing the Regulatory Flexibility Act and is a source of small business statistics and research.

 Since 2012, the Office of Advocacy has participated in several international regulatory cooperation and international trade initiatives that have impacted small businesses, but their role would benefit from clarification in statute.

"Today's small businesses are more global than ever, selling their products and buying goods from countries around the world. So, when the U.S. makes decisions around trade and other international economic issues, the concerns of small firms must be considered," said Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez, Chairwoman of the House Small Business Committee. "This bill will empower the SBA Office of Advocacy and help ensure that the interests of small businesses are represented when it comes to the international issues that impact them."

H.R. 128 will now be considered by United States Senate.

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