U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE

WASHINGTON : 

1 

79–006 

" ! HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 110TH CONGRESS

2d Session 

REPORT

2009

110–926 

Union Calendar No. 599 

REPORT ON THE ACTIVITY 

OF THE

COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS 

FOR THE

ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS 

JANUARY 2, 2009.—Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on 

the State of the Union and ordered to be printed 


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LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL 

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, 

COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS, 

Washington, DC, January 2, 2009. 

Hon. LORRAINE C. MILLER, 

Clerk, House of Representatives, 

Washington, DC. 

DEAR MS. MILLER: Pursuant to clause 1(d) of rule XI of the Rules 

of the House of Representatives for the 110th Congress, I present 

herewith a report on the activity of the Committee on Small Business for the 110th Congress, including the Committee’s review and 

study of legislation within its jurisdiction, and the oversight activities undertaken by the Committee. 

Yours truly, 

NYDIA M. VELA ́ ZQUEZ, 

Chairwoman. 


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C O N T E N T S 

Page 

Letter of Transmittal ............................................................................................... III 

Jurisdiction ............................................................................................................... 1 

Rules of the Committee ........................................................................................... 2 

Membership and Organization ............................................................................... 11 

Legislative and Oversight Activities ...................................................................... 15 

Full Committee ........................................................................................................ 43 

Subcommittee on Finance and Tax ........................................................................ 63 

Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology ..................................................... 65 

Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care, and Trade ...................................... 69 

Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship ........................................ 75 

Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight .................................................... 77 

Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress .................................................................. 81 

Implementation of the Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress ........................... 93 

Appendix I—Committee Legislation: Committee Reports and Public Laws ....... 113 

Appendix II—Committee Publications: Committee Hearings and Committee ... 117 

Prints ........................................................................................................................ 120 


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Union Calendar No. 599 

110th Congress REPORT " ! HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 2d Session 110–926 

REPORT ON THE ACTIVITY OF THE COMMITTEE ON 

SMALL BUSINESS FOR THE 110TH CONGRESS 

JANUARY 2, 2009.—Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State 

of the Union and ordered to be printed 

Ms. VELA ́ ZQUEZ, from the Committee on Small Business, submitted 

to the Committee on the Budget the following 

R E P O R T 

Clause 1(d) of rule XI of the Rules of the House of Representatives for the 110th Congress requires that each standing committee, not later than January 2 of each odd-numbered year, submit to the House a report on the activities of that committee, including separate sections summarizing the legislative and oversight 

activities of that committee during that Congress. 

JURISDICTION AND SPECIAL OVERSIGHT 

FUNCTION 

Clause 1(p) of rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives for the 110th Congress sets forth the jurisdiction of the Committee on Small Business as follows— 

(1) Assistance to and protection of small business, including financial aid, regulatory flexibility, and paperwork reduction. 

(2) Participation of small business enterprises in Federal procurement and Government contracts. 

Clause 3(l) of rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives 

for the 110th Congress sets forth the Special Oversight Function of 

the Committee on Small Business as follows— 

The Committee on Small Business shall study and investigate on 

a continuing basis the problems of all types of small business. 


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REAFFIRMATION OF COMMITTEE ON SMALL 

BUSINESS JURISDICTION 

‘‘Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm 

the jurisdiction of the Committee on Small Business as contained 

in House Rule X, clause 1(p). The Committee’s jurisdiction includes 

the Small Business Administration and its programs, as well as 

small business matters related to the Regulatory Flexibility Act 

and the Paperwork Reduction Act. Its jurisdiction under House 

Rule X, clause 1(p) also includes other programs and initiatives 

that address small businesses outside of the confines of those Acts. 

This reaffirmation of the jurisdiction of the Committee on Small 

Business will enable the House to ensure that it is properly considering the consequences of its actions related to small business.’’ 

Louise Slaughter, Chairwoman, Committee of Rules 

Consideration of H. Res. 6, Adopting the Rules of the House of 

Representatives for the One Hundredth Tenth Congress, January 4, 

2007 

RULES OF THE COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS FOR THE ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS 

1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

The Rules of the House of Representatives, and in particular the 

committee rules enumerated in rule XI, are the rules of the Committee on Small Business to the extent applicable and by this reference are incorporated. Each subcommittee of the Committee on 

Small Business (hereinafter referred to as the ‘‘committee’’) is a 

part of the committee and is subject to the authority and direction 

of the committee, and to its rules to the extent applicable. 

2. REFERRAL OF BILLS BY CHAIRWOMAN

Unless retained for consideration by the committee, all legislation and other matters referred to the committee shall be referred 

by the Chairwoman to the subcommittee of appropriate jurisdiction 

within 14 calendar days. Where the subject matter of the referral 

involves the jurisdiction of more than one subcommittee or does not 

fall within any previously assigned jurisdictions, the Chairwoman 

shall refer the matter, as she may deem advisable. 

3. DATE OF MEETING

The regular meeting date of the committee shall be the second 

Thursday of every month when the House is in session. A regular 

meeting of the committee may be dispensed with if, in the judgment of the Chairwoman, there is no need for the meeting. Additional meetings may be called by the Chairwoman as she may 

deem necessary or at the request of a majority of the members of 

the committee in accordance with clause 2(c) of rule XI of the 

House. 

At least 3 days’ notice of such an additional meeting shall be 

given unless the Chairwoman determines that there is good cause 

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ness to be considered at each meeting shall be made by the Chairwoman subject to clause 2(c) of rule XI of the House. 

A regularly scheduled meeting need not be held if there is no 

business to be considered or, upon at least 3 days’ notice, it may 

be set for a different date. 

4. ANNOUNCEMENT OF HEARINGS

Unless the Chairwoman, with the concurrence of the Ranking 

Minority Member, or the committee by majority vote, determines 

that there is good cause to begin a hearing at an earlier date, public announcement shall be made of the date, place and subject matter of any hearing to be conducted by the committee at least 7 calendar days before the commencement of that hearing. 

After announcement of a hearing, the committee shall make 

available as soon as practicable to all Members of the committee 

a tentative witness list and to the extent practicable a memorandum explaining the subject matter of the hearing (including relevant legislative reports and other necessary material). In addition, 

the Chairwoman shall make available as soon as practicable to the 

Members of the committee any official reports from departments 

and agencies on the subject matter as they are received. 

5. MEETINGS AND HEARINGS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

(A) Meetings 

Each meeting of the committee or its subcommittees for the 

transaction of business, including the markup of legislation, shall 

be open to the public, including to radio, television and still photography coverage, except as provided by clause 4 of rule XI of the 

House, except when the committee or subcommittee, in open session and with a majority present, determines by record vote that 

all or part of the remainder of the meeting on that day shall be 

closed to the public because disclosure of matters to be considered 

would endanger national security, would compromise sensitive law 

enforcement information, or would tend to defame, degrade or incriminate any person or otherwise would violate any law or rule of 

the House; Provided, however, that no person other than members 

of the committee, and such congressional staff and such executive 

branch representatives as they may authorize, shall be present in 

any business meeting or markup session which has been closed to 

the public. 

(B) Hearings 

Each hearing conducted by the committee or its subcommittees 

shall be open to the public, including radio, television and still photography coverage, except when the committee or subcommittee, in 

open session and with a majority present, determines by record 

vote that all or part of the remainder of the hearing on that day 

shall be closed to the public because disclosure of testimony, evidence or other matters to be considered would endanger the national security, would compromise sensitive law enforcement information, or would violate any law or rule of the House; Provided, 

however, that the committee or subcommittee may by the same procedure vote to close one subsequent day of hearings. Notwithstanding the requirements of the preceding sentence, a majority of 


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those present, there being in attendance the requisite number required under the rules of the committee to be present for the purpose of taking testimony, (i) may vote to close the hearing for the 

sole purpose of discussing whether testimony or evidence to be received would endanger the national security, would compromise 

sensitive law enforcement information, or violate clause 2(k)(5) of 

rule XI of the House; or (ii) may vote to close the hearing, as provided in clause 2(k)(5) of rule XI of the House. 

All members of the committee shall be able to participate in any 

subcommittee hearing. No member of the House may be excluded 

from non-participatory attendance at any hearing of the committee 

or any subcommittee, unless the House of Representatives shall by 

majority vote authorize the committee or subcommittee, for purposes of a particular series of hearings on a particular article of 

legislation or on a particular subject of investigation, to close its 

hearing to members by the same procedures designated for closing 

hearings to the public. Such members who would like to participate 

shall notify the Ranking Minority Member and submit a request to 

the Chairwoman one day in advance of such hearing. 

6. WITNESSES

(A) Statement of witnesses 

Each witness who is to appear before the committee or subcommittee shall file with the committee at least two business days 

before the day of his or her appearance 75 copies of his or her written statement of proposed testimony. Each witness shall also submit to the committee a copy of his or her final prepared statement 

in an electronic format at that time. 

At least one copy of the statement of each witness shall be furnished directly to the Ranking Minority Member. In addition, all 

witnesses shall be required to submit with their testimony a curriculum vitae or other statement describing their education, employment, professional affiliations and other background information pertinent to their testimony unless waived by the Chairwoman. Each witness will complete a disclosure form detailing any 

contracts or business that they currently have with the federal government. 

The committee will provide public access to its printed materials, 

including the proposed testimony of witnesses, in electronic form. 

(B) Interrogation of witnesses 

Whenever any hearing is conducted by the committee or any subcommittee upon any measure or matter, the minority party members on the committee shall be entitled, upon request to the Chairwoman by a majority of those minority members, to call a witness 

or witnesses selected by the minority to testify with respect to that 

measure or matter. The minority shall be entitled to a ratio of onethird of the witnesses testifying. For the purposes of determining 

this ratio, it shall not include testifying government officials. The 

witnesses requested by the minority shall be invited to testify by 

the Chairwoman and must furnish at least one copy of his or her 

statement and any supplementary materials directly to the Chairwoman within one business day before the day of his or her appearance unless waived by the Chairwoman. 


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Except when the committee adopts a motion pursuant to subdivisions (B) and (C) of clause 2(j)(2) of rule XI of the rules of the 

House, committee members may question witnesses only when they 

have been recognized by the Chairwoman for that purpose, and 

only for a 5-minute period until all members present have had an 

opportunity to question a witness. The Chairwoman and the Ranking Member shall not be subject to the 5-minute period limitation. 

For all other Committee Members, the 5-minute period for questioning a witness by any one member can be extended only with 

the unanimous consent of all members present. The Chairwoman, 

followed by the Ranking Minority Member and all other members 

alternating between the majority and minority, shall initiate the 

questioning of witnesses in both the full and subcommittee hearings. The order for questioning by members of each party shall be 

determined by the time in which the member arrived at the hearing after the gavel has been struck, with the first arriving having 

priority over members of his or her party. If members arrive at the 

same time, then seniority shall dictate the order. 

In recognizing members to question witnesses, the Chairwoman 

may take into consideration the ratio of majority and minority 

members present in such a manner as not to disadvantage the 

Members of either party. The Chairwoman, in consultation with 

the Ranking Minority Member, may decrease the 5-minute time period in order to accommodate the needs of all the Members present 

and the schedule of the witnesses. 

7. SUBPOENAS

A subpoena may be authorized and issued by the committee in 

the conduct of any investigation or series of investigations or activities to require the attendance and testimony of such witness and 

the production of such books, records, correspondence, memoranda, 

papers and documents, as deemed necessary. Such a subpoena 

shall be authorized by a majority vote of the full committee. The 

requirement that the authorization of a subpoena require a majority vote may be waived by the Ranking Minority Member. The 

Chairwoman may issue a subpoena, in consultation with the Ranking Minority Member, when the House is out for more than three 

legislative days. 

8. QUORUM

No measure or recommendation shall be reported unless a majority of the committee was actually present. For purposes of taking 

testimony or receiving evidence, there shall be one member from 

the majority and one member from the minority for the purposes 

of a quorum. Such requirement shall be waived for field hearings. 

For all other purposes, one-third of the members (or 11 Members) 

shall constitute a quorum. 

9. AMENDMENTS DURING MARK-UP

Any amendment offered to any pending legislation before the 

committee must be made available in written form when requested 

by any member of the committee. If such amendment is not available in written form when requested, the Chairwoman shall allow 

an appropriate period for the provision thereof. 


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10. POSTPONEMENT OF PROCEEDINGS

The Chairwoman in consultation with the Ranking Minority 

Member may postpone further proceedings when a record vote is 

ordered on the question of approving any measure or matter or 

adopting an amendment. The Chairwoman may resume proceedings postponed at any time, but no later than the next meeting 

day. In exercising postponement authority, the Chairwoman shall 

take all reasonable steps necessary to notify members on the resumption of proceedings on any postponed recorded vote. When 

proceedings resume on a postponed question, notwithstanding any 

intervening order for the previous question, an underlying proposition shall remain subject to further debate or amendment to the 

same extent as when the question was postponed. 

11. NUMBER AND JURISDICTION OF SUBCOMMITTEES

There will be five subcommittees as follows: 

Finance and Tax (6 Democratic Members and 5 Republican Members); Contracting and Technology (6 Democratic Members and 5 

Republican Members); Regulations, Health Care, and Trade (8 

Democratic Members and 7 Republican Members); Rural and 

Urban Entrepreneurship (7 Democratic Members and 6 Republican 

Members); Investigations and Oversight (4 Democratic Members 

and 3 Republican Members). 

During the 110th Congress, the Chairwoman and Ranking Minority Member shall be ex officio members of all subcommittees, 

without vote, and the full committee shall have the authority to 

conduct oversight of all areas of the committee’s jurisdiction. In addition, all members of the committee may participate in hearings 

of any subcommittee of the committee. In addition to conducting 

oversight in the area of their respective jurisdiction, each subcommittee shall have the following jurisdiction: 

Subcommittee on Finance and Tax 

The Small Business Administration (SBA) Lending and Investment programs: Section 7(a) loan program, 504 Certified Development Company program, Small Business Investment Company program, Disaster Loan Assistance programs, and Microloan program. 

Access to capital and finance issues generally. 

Oversight over tax policy and retirement/pension matters affecting small businesses 

Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology 

SBA Contracting programs including the following: Section 8(a) 

Business Development program, Small Disadvantaged Business 

(SDB) certification operated by SBA, Women’s Procurement Program, HUBZone program, Surety Bond program, Service-disabled 

veteran procurement, and Section 7(j) management and technical 

assistance program SBA Technology programs: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, Small Business Technology 

Transfer program. 

Oversight of government-wide procurement practices and programs affecting small businesses. 

Oversight of technology and patent issues. 


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Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care, and Trade 

The Regulatory Flexibility Act, the Small Business Regulatory 

Enforcement Fairness Act, and the Paperwork Reduction Act. 

SBA’s Office of Advocacy, National Ombudsman, and SBA small 

business size standards. 

Oversight of regulations and regulatory issues that affect small 

businesses. 

Oversight of health care coverage issues. 

Oversight over issues affecting small health care providers. 

Oversight of trade issues, including SBA’s Office of International 

Trade. 

Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship 

SBA entrepreneurial development programs: Women’s Business 

Centers, National Veterans Business Development Corporation, 

Small Business Development Centers, SCORE, Drug Free Workplace program, Office of Women’s Business Ownership, and National Women’s Business Council (NWBC). 

New Markets Venture Capital (NMVC) program, New Markets 

Tax Credit program, BusinessLINC and the Program for Re-Investment in Micro entrepreneurs. 

General oversight of programs targeted toward urban and rural 

economic growth as well as general federal government entrepreneurial development programs. 

Oversight of agricultural issues. 

Oversight of energy issues. 

Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight 

Oversight of SBA Administration, Management, and Agency 

Practices. 

Oversight of activities by the Office of the Inspector General at 

SBA. 

12. COMMITTEE STAFF

(A) Majority staff 

The employees of the committee, except those assigned to the minority as provided below, shall be appointed and assigned, and may 

be removed by the Chairwoman. The Chairwoman shall fix their 

remuneration, and they shall be under the general supervision and 

direction of the Chairwoman. 

(B) Minority staff 

The employees of the committee assigned to the minority shall 

be appointed and assigned, and their remuneration determined, as 

the Ranking Minority Member of the committee shall determine. 

(C) Subcommittee staff 

The Chairwoman and Ranking Minority Member of the full committee shall endeavor to ensure that sufficient staff is made available to each subcommittee to carry out its responsibilities under 

the rules of the committee. 


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13. POWERS AND DUTIES OF SUBCOMMITTEES

Each subcommittee is authorized to meet, hold hearings, receive 

evidence, and report to the full committee on all matters referred 

to it. Subcommittee chairmen shall set meeting and hearing dates 

after approval of the Chairwoman of the full committee. Meetings 

and hearings of subcommittees shall not be scheduled to occur simultaneously with meetings or hearings of the full committee. 

14. RECORDS

The committee shall keep a complete record of all actions, which 

shall include a record of the votes on any question on which a 

record vote is demanded. The result of each subcommittee record 

vote, together with a description of the matter voted upon, shall 

promptly be made available to the full committee. A record of such 

votes shall be made available for inspection by the public at reasonable times in the offices of the committee. The committee shall 

keep a complete record of all committee and subcommittee activity 

which, in the case of any meeting or hearing transcript, shall include a substantially verbatim account of remarks actually made 

during the proceedings, subject only to technical, grammatical, and 

typographical corrections authorized by the person making the remarks involved. 

The records of the committee at the National Archives and 

Records Administration shall be made available in accordance with 

rule VII of the Rules of the House. The Chairwoman of the full 

committee shall notify the Ranking Minority Member of the full 

committee of any decision, pursuant to clause 3(b)(3) or clause 4(b) 

of rule VII of the House, to withhold a record otherwise available, 

and the matter shall be presented to the committee for a determination of the written request of any member of the committee. 

15. ACCESS TO CLASSIFIED OR SENSITIVE INFORMATION

Access to classified or sensitive information supplied to the committee and attendance at closed sessions of the committee or its 

subcommittees shall be limited to members and necessary committee staff and stenographic reporters who have appropriate security clearance when the Chairwoman determines that such access 

or attendance is essential to the functioning of the committee. 

The procedures to be followed in granting access to those hearings, records, data, charts, and files of the committee which involve 

classified information or information deemed to be sensitive shall 

be as follows: 

(A) Only Members of the House of Representatives and specifically designated committee staff of the Committee on Small Business may have access to such information. 

(B) Members who desire to read materials that are in the possession of the committee should notify the clerk of the committee. 

(C) The clerk will maintain an accurate access log, which identifies the circumstances surrounding access to the information, without revealing the material examined. 

(D) If the material desired to be reviewed is material which the 

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knowledging such access and that the individual has read and understands the procedures under which access is being granted. 

(E) Material provided for review under this rule shall not be removed from a specified room within the committee offices. 

(F) Individuals reviewing materials under this rule shall make 

certain that the materials are returned to the proper custodian. 

(G) No reproductions or recordings may be made of any portion 

of such materials. 

(H) The contents of such information shall not be divulged to any 

person in any way, form, shape, or manner, and shall not be discussed with any person who has not received the information in an 

authorized manner. 

(I) When not being examined in the manner described herein, 

such information will be kept in secure safes or locked file cabinets 

in the committee offices. 

(J) These procedures only address access to information the committee or a subcommittee deems to be sensitive enough to require 

special treatment. 

(K) If a member of the House of Representatives believes that 

certain sensitive information should not be restricted as to dissemination or use, the member may petition the committee or subcommittee to so rule. With respect to information and materials 

provided to the committee by the executive branch, the classification of information and materials as determined by the executive 

branch shall prevail unless affirmatively changed by the committee 

or the subcommittee involved, after consultation with the appropriate executive agencies. 

(L) Other materials in the possession of the committee are to be 

handled in accordance with the normal practices and traditions of 

the committee. 

16. OTHER PROCEDURES

The Chairwoman of the full committee may establish such other 

procedures and take such actions as may be necessary to carry out 

the foregoing rules or to facilitate the effective operation of the 

committee. 

17. AMENDMENTS TO COMMITTEE RULES

The rules of the committee may be modified, amended or repealed by a majority of the members, at a meeting specifically 

called for such purpose, but only if written notice of the proposed 

change has been provided to each such member at least 3 days before the time of the meeting. 

18. BUDGET AND TRAVEL

(A) From the amount provided to the Committee in the primary 

expense resolution adopted by the U.S. House of Representatives 

for the 110th Congress, the Chairwoman, after consultation with 

the Ranking Minority Member, shall designate one-third of the 

budget under the direction of the Ranking Minority Member for the 

purposes of minority staff, travel expenses of minority staff and 

members, and minority office expenses. 


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(B) The Chairwoman may authorize travel in connection with activities or subject matters under the general jurisdiction of the 

Committee. 

(C) The Ranking Minority Member may authorize travel for any 

minority member or minority committee staff member in connection with activities or subject matters under the general jurisdiction of the Committee. Before such travel, there shall be submitted 

to the Chairwoman in writing the following at least seven calendar 

days prior: 

The purpose of the travel. 

The dates during which the travel is to occur. 

The names of the States or countries to be visited and the length 

of time spent in each. 

The names of members and staff of the committee participating 

in such travel. 

At the conclusion of such travel, a summary of the activity and 

its accomplishments shall be provided to the Chairwoman within 

ten calendar days. 

19. COMMITTEE WEBSITE

The Chairwoman shall maintain an official Committee website 

for the purpose of furthering the Committee’s legislative and oversight responsibilities, including communicating information about 

the Committee’s activities to Committee members and other Members of the House. The Ranking Minority Members may maintain 

a similar website for the same purpose, including communicating 

information about the activities of the minority to Committee members and other Members of the House. 

20. VICE CHAIR

Pursuant to House Rules, the Chairwoman shall designate a 

member of the majority party to serve as Vice Chairman of the 

Committee. The Vice Chairman shall preside at any meeting or 

hearing during the temporary absence of the Chairwoman. If the 

Chairwoman and Vice Chairman are not present at any meeting or 

hearing, the ranking member of the majority who is present shall 

preside at the meeting or hearing. 


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MEMBERSHIP AND ORGANIZATION OF THE 

COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS 

ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS 

COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS 


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FULL COMMITTEE LIST 

Rep. NYDIA M. VELA ́ ZQUEZ (NY–12), Chair 

Rep. HEATH SHULER (NC–11) 

Rep. CHARLIE GONZALEZ (TX–20) 

Rep. RICK LARSEN (WA–02) 

Rep. RAU ́ L GRIJALVA (AZ–07) 

Rep. MICHAEL MICHAUD (ME–02) 

Rep. MELISSA BEAN (IL–08) 

Rep. HENRY CUELLAR (TX–28) 

Rep. DAN LIPINSKI (IL–03) 

Rep. GWEN MOORE (WI–04) 

Rep. JASON ALTMIRE (PA–04) 

Rep. BRUCE BRALEY (IA–01) 

Rep. YVETTE CLARKE (NY–11) 

Rep. BRAD ELLSWORTH (IN–08) 

Rep. HENRY ‘‘HANK’’ JOHNSON (GA–04) 

Rep. JOE SESTAK (PA–07) 

Rep. BRIAN HIGGINS (NY–27) 1

Rep. MAZIE HIRONO (HI–02) 2

Rep. STEVE CHABOT (OH–01), Ranking 

Member 

Rep. ROSCOE G. BARTLETT (MD–06) 

Rep. SAM GRAVES (MO–06) 

Rep. W. TODD AKIN (MO–02) 

Rep. BILL SHUSTER (PA–09) 

Rep. MARILYN N. MUSGRAVE (CO–04) 

Rep. STEVE KING (IA–05) 

Rep. JEFF FORTENBERRY (NE–01) 

Rep. LYNN WESTMORELAND (GA–03) 

Rep. LOUIE GOHMERT (TX–01) 

Rep. DAVID DAVIS (TN–01) 

Rep. MARY FALLIN (OK–05) 

Rep. VERN BUCHANAN (FL–13) 

VACANT3

VACANT4

1 Added 10/03/07. Replaced Rep. Juanita Millender-McDonald. 

2 Added 10/03/07. Replaced Rep. William Jefferson. 

3 Vacancy due to Dean Heller’s departure from the Committee on February, 2008. 

4 Vacancy due to Jim Jordan’s departure from the Committee on March, 2008. 

SUBCOMMITTEE LIST 

SUBCOMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND TAX

Rep. MELISSA BEAN (IL–08), Chair 

Rep. RAU ́ L GRIJALVA (AZ–07) 

Rep. MICHAEL MICHAUD (ME–02) 

Rep. HENRY ‘‘HANK’’ JOHNSON (GA–04) 

Rep. JOE SESTAK (PA–07) 

Rep. BRAD ELLSWORTH (IN–08) 

Rep. VERN BUCHANAN (FL–13), Ranking 

Member 5

Rep. BILL SHUSTER (PA–09) 

Rep. STEVE KING (IA–05) 

VACANT6

VACANT7

5 Rep. Buchanan was named Ranking Member after the original ranking member, Rep. 

Heller, left the Committee. 6 Vacancy due to Rep. Dean Heller’s departure from the Committee on February, 2008. 

7 Vacancy due to Rep. Jim Jordan’s departure from the Committee on March, 2008. 

SUBCOMMITTEE ON CONTRACTING AND TECHNOLOGY

Rep. BRUCE BRALEY (IA–01), Chair 

Rep. HENRY CUELLAR (TX–28) 

Rep. GWEN MOORE (WI–04) 

Rep. YVETTE CLARKE (NY–11) 

Rep. JOE SESTAK (PA–07) 

VACANT8

Rep. DAVID DAVIS (TN–01), Ranking 

Member 

Rep. ROSCOE G. BARTLETT (MD–06) 

Rep. SAM GRAVES (MO–06) 

Rep. W. TODD AKIN (MO–02) 

Rep. MARY FALLIN (OK–05) 

8 Vacancy due to Rep. William Jefferson’s departure from the Committee on June, 2007. 


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SUBCOMMITTEE ON REGULATIONS, HEALTH CARE, AND TRADE

Rep. CHARLIE GONZALEZ (TX–20), Chair 

Rep. DAN LIPINSKI (IL–03) 

Rep. RICK LARSEN (WA–02) 

Rep. JASON ALTMIRE (PA–04) 

Rep. MELISSA BEAN (IL–08) 

Rep. GWEN MOORE (WI–04) 

Rep. JOE SESTAK (PA–07) 

VACANT9

Rep. LYNN WESTMORELAND (GA–03), 

Ranking Member 

Rep. BILL SHUSTER (PA–09) 

Rep. STEVE KING (IA–05) 

Rep. MARY FALLIN (OK–05) 

Rep. MARILYN N. MUSGRAVE (CO–04) 

Rep. VERN BUCHANAN (FL–13) 

VACANT10

9 Vacancy due to Rep. William Jefferson’s departure from the Committee on June, 2007. 

10 Vacancy due to Rep. Jim Jordan’s departure from the Committee on March, 2008. 

SUBCOMMITTEE ON RURAL AND URBAN ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Rep. HEATH SHULER (NC–11), Chair 

Rep. RICK LARSEN (WA–02) 

Rep. BRAD ELLSWORTH (IN–08) 

Rep. MICHAEL MICHAUD (ME–02) 

Rep. GWEN MOORE (WI–04) 

Rep. YVETTE CLARKE (NY–11) 

Rep. HENRY ‘‘HANK’’ JOHNSON (GA–04) 

Rep. JEFF FORTENBERRY (NE–01), 

Ranking Member 

Rep. MARILYN N. MUSGRAVE (CO–04) 

Rep. ROSCOE G. BARTLETT (MD–06) 

Rep. DAVID DAVIS (TN–01) 

VACANT11

VACANT 

11 Vacancy due to Rep. Dean Heller’s departure from the Committee on February, 2008. 

SUBCOMMITTEE ON INVESTIGATIONS AND OVERSIGHT

Rep. JASON ALTMIRE (PA–04), Chair 

Rep. CHARLIE GONZALEZ (TX–20) 

Rep. RAU ́ L GRIJALVA (AZ–07) 

VACANT 

Rep. MARY FALLIN (OK–05), Ranking 

Member 12

Rep. LYNN WESTMORELAND (GA–03) 

VACANT 

12 Rep. Louie Gohmert was originally the Ranking Member. 


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COMMITTEE STAFF 

MAJORITY STAFF

Michael Day, Staff Director 

Adam Minehardt, Deputy Staff Director 

Tim Slattery, Chief Counsel 

Andy Jiminez, Banking Counsel 

Erik Lieberman, Regulatory Counsel 

Mark Palmer, Agriculture Counsel 

LeAnn Delaney, Senior Procurement Counsel 

Naveen Parmar, Tax Counsel 

Tom Dawson, Health Care Counsel 

Nicole Witenstein, Trade Counsel 

Bill Maguire, Technology Counsel 

Russell Orban, General Counsel 

Melody Reis, Professional Staff 

Gail O’Connor, Press Secretary 

Erin Donar, Deputy Press Secretary 

Luis Hestres, Web Coordinator 

Darienne Gutierrez, Staff Assistant 

Eduardo Lerma, Staff Assistant 

Moraima Garcia, Office Manager 

MINORITY STAFF

Kevin Fitzpatrick, Staff Director 

Janet Oliver, Deputy Staff Director 

Barry Pineles, Chief Counsel 

Joe Hartz, Professional Staff Member 

Lisa Christian, Professional Staff 

Kathryn Fox, Press Secretary 

Laura Danner, Staff Assistant 


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LEGISLATIVE AND OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES 

During the 110th Congress, 80 bills were referred to the Committee on Small Business. The full Committee reported to the 

House or was discharged from the further consideration of 18 

measures, not including conference reports. Six measures regarding 

matters within the Committee’s jurisdiction were enacted into law. 

The following is a summary of the legislative and oversight activities of the Committee on Small Business during the 110th Congress, including a summary of the activities taken by the Committee to implement its Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress. 


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FULL COMMITTEE

LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES

AN ACT TO PROVIDE FOR AN ADDITIONAL TEMPORARY EXTENSION OF

PROGRAMS UNDER THE SMALL BUSINESS ACT AND THE SMALL BUSI- NESS INVESTMENT ACT OF 1958 THROUGH JULY 31, 2007, AND FOR

OTHER PURPOSES

(H.R. 434)

Summary 

H.R. 434 extended the programs authorized under the Small 

Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 

through July 31, 2007. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 434 was introduced by Ranking Member Steve Chabot on 

January 12, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee 

Chairwoman Nydia Vela ́zquez. The bill was referred to the Committee on Small Business. 

On January 17, 2007, the House considered H.R. 434 under suspension of the rules. At the conclusion of debate, the yeas and nays 

were demanded and ordered. On motion to suspend the rules and 

pass the bill, H.R. 434 was passed by a record vote of 413 yeas to 

2 nays (Roll no. 28). 

On January 18, 2007, H.R. 434 was received in the Senate. On 

February 1, 2007, the Senate amended H.R. 434 by unanimous consent and agreed to Senate Amendments 229 and 230. This passed 

the Senate by unanimous consent on the same day. On February 

7, 2007, the House agreed to suspend the rules and agree to the 

Senate amendments by voice vote. On February 15, 2007, the legislation was signed by the President and became Public Law 110–4. 

THE SMALL BUSINESS LENDING IMPROVEMENTS ACT OF 2007

(H.R. 1332)

A bill to improve the access to capital lending programs of the 

Small Business Administration. 

Summary 

H.R. 1332, the Small Business Lending Improvements Act of 

2007, updates and streamlines the SBA’s two largest small business finance programs, the 7(a) and 504 (also known as the Certified Development Company) programs. The bill makes the 7(a) 

program more affordable to borrowers and lenders by providing the 

SBA with authority to contribute funds for the purpose of reducing 

the burden associated with borrower and lender fees on 7(a) loans. 

The bill also adapts the 7(a) program to achieve specific public polVerDate Nov 24 2008 02:51 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6601 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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icy objectives through improved access to the program for medical 

professionals in health professional shortage areas and military 

veterans. 

The bill also focuses on encouraging increased lender participation in the 7(a) program by establishing programs within the 7(a) 

framework that simplify and streamline the lending process. A 

rural lender outreach program will reduce the paperwork burden 

associated with 7(a) loans, and a Small Bank Outreach division 

within the SBA will provide community banks with direct support 

in their efforts to participate in the 7(a) program. 

The Small Business Lending Improvements Act of 2007 also 

modernizes and improves the 504, Certified Development Company, program by making an array of technical changes to the program and addressing two of the program’s most evident problems. 

The bill improves the program’s ability to liquidate defaulted loans 

by permitting CDCs to either foreclose and liquidate defaulted 

loans or to contract with a qualified third party to do so. The bill 

enhances the ties between CDCs and the communities that they 

serve by requiring CDCs to include locals on the board of directors. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 1332 was introduced by Representative Melissa Bean on 

March 6, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee Ranking Member Steve Chabot and Committee Chairwoman Nydia 

Vela ́zquez. The bill was referred to the Committee on Small Business. 

The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on March 8, 

2007, and heard from the SBA’s Associate Administrator for Capital Access on the Administration’s views on the legislation. Additionally, the Committee received testimony from the American 

Dental Association, the Credit Union National Association, and the 

National Association of Development Companies who testified on 

the merits of the legislation and testified in support of its provisions. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on March 

15, 2007, and ordered H.R. 1332 reported to the House, with an 

amendment, with a favorable recommendation by a voice vote. 

On April 24, 2007, the House adopted H. Res. 330, providing for 

consideration of H.R. 1332 under a modified open rule, by a voice 

vote. Also on that day, the House considered H.R. 1332 and passed 

the bill with an amendment, by a record vote of 380 ayes and 45 

nays. On April 26, 2007, the bill was received in the Senate, read 

twice, and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General 

Orders. 

No further action was taken on this legislation in the 110th Congress. 

RELIEF FOR ENTREPRENEURS: COORDINATION OF OBJECTIVES AND

VALUES FOR EFFECTIVE RECOVERY ACT OF 2007

(H.R. 1361)

A bill to reform and improve the disaster relief programs of the 

Small Business Administration. 


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Summary 

The RECOVER Act was established to address specific problems 

in the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) disaster assistance 

program that were identified following deficiencies in the SBA’s response to the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes. Most notably, the bill 

will ensure that the SBA performs comprehensive, risk-based, disaster planning on an annual basis and that the agency has mechanisms in place to maintain its disaster readiness over the longterm. The act also establishes several new disaster assistance tools 

to improve the disaster planning process, including the reorganization of the agency’s Office of Disaster Assistance, a requirement 

that the agency engage in an annual disaster simulation exercise, 

and requirements that the agency formalize plans to address the 

need for additional space and employees in the event of a major 

disaster. 

The act will also enhance the SBA’s disaster loan program by improving the manner in which disaster loans are processed, approved, and disbursed, and by providing the agency with additional 

financial assistance tools that are intended to better fit the various 

needs of small businesses following a disaster. The bill will establish a bridge financing program to provide small businesses with 

emergency, small-dollar financing within 36 hours following a disaster. This program will provide vital funds to disaster victims during the 21-day target approval timeframe for conventional disaster 

loans. These immediate disaster assistance loans will be limited in 

amount and will be contingent upon the applicant applying for, and 

meeting basic eligibility standards for a conventional disaster loan. 

These factors are intended to limit the federal government’s risk 

exposure under this program. 

H.R. 1361 also establishes an Enhanced Lending Authority for 

Preferred Lenders Program that is intended to enable the SBA to 

enlist the resources of private lenders to process, approve, disburse, 

and service loans during incidents of national significance. This 

program may be implemented whenever the administrator sees fit 

or in two specific situations when the administration is most likely 

to need the additional loan processing, approval, and disbursement 

capacity that the private sector can provide. The Enhanced Lending Authority for Preferred Lenders Program loans are intended to 

carry the same favorable interest and repayment terms as conventional disaster loans administered under Section 7(b) of the Small 

Business Act. 

The bill also creates a small grant program to assist the most severely affected small businesses damaged by Hurricanes Katrina, 

Rita, and Wilma. To ensure that grant assistance only goes to the 

neediest small businesses and is only used to spur redevelopment 

in communities where market forces have failed, the program will 

only be applicable under very limited circumstances. In order to receive a grant, a small business must have been located in those 

communities most severely damaged by Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, 

and Wilma, must have been in existence at least two years prior 

to the disaster, must have been rejected for a conventional SBA 

loan, must have remained economically viable following the disaster, and have certified that they will reopen their business in one 

of the affected communities. Only a small number of businesses are 


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expected to meet all of these requirements, and the program is intended to be administered at the discretion of the Administrator. 

To enable the SBA to be more responsive to the needs of individual disaster victims, H.R. 1361 provides the administrator with 

authority to waive the prohibition on duplication of benefits stemming from state administered grant assistance programs. This provision will enable the SBA to assist those victims that were negatively impacted by deficiencies in the loan processing and disbursement process. These waivers will be available at the discretion of 

the Administrator of the SBA. 

The bill also streamlines the SBA’s loan processing and disbursement process and makes them more responsive to the needs of borrowers. The SBA will be required to develop, implement, and maintain a centralized system to track all communication written, 

verbal, and electronic, between disaster assistance applicants and 

agency employees. The SBA will also be required to provide followup information to disaster assistance applicants as their application moves through vital stages of the processing, approval, and 

disbursement process. The Act is intended to improve the way the 

SBA disburses approved assistance to victims by setting a minimum amount that must be disbursed in each disbursement stage 

unless the applicant requests a lesser amount. 

Finally, a reporting requirement will ensure that members of 

Congress are adequately informed about all aspects of the SBA’s 

disaster assistance and disaster planning programs so that they 

may provide the SBA with the support they need to fulfill their 

vital mission following a disaster. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 1361 was introduced by Chairwoman Nydia Vela ́zquez on 

March 6, 2007. Original Cosponsors included Representatives Richard Baker, Charles Gonzalez, William Jefferson, Henry Johnson, 

Charlie Melancon, Gwen Moore, Bruce Braley, Rau ́l Grijalva, Daniel Lipinski, and Gene Taylor. The bill was referred to the Committee on Small Business. 

The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on March 8, 

2007, and heard from the SBA’s Associate Administrator for Disaster Relief on the Administration’s views on the legislation. Additionally, the Committee received testimony from a former director 

of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Black 

Chamber of Commerce, and the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce, who testified on the merits of the legislation and testified 

in support of its provisions. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on March 

15, 2007, and ordered H.R. 1361 reported to the House, with an 

amendment, by a record vote of 17 ayes and 9 nays. 

On April 18, 2007, the House adopted H. Res. 302, providing for 

consideration of H.R. 1332 under a modified open rule, by a voice 

vote. Also on that day, the House considered H.R. 1361 and passed 

the bill with an amendment, by a record vote of 267 ayes and 158 

nays. On April 19, 2007, the bill was received in the Senate. On 

August 3, 2007, the bill was read twice in the Senate, and placed 

on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. 


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No further action was taken on this legislation in the 110th Congress. 

DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS DISASTER ELIGIBILITY ACT

(H.R. 1468)

To ensure that, for each small business participating in the 8(a) 

business development program that was affected by Hurricane 

Katrina of 2005, the period in which it can participate is extended 

by 18 months. 

Summary 

H.R. 1468, the ‘‘Disadvantaged Business Disaster Eligibility Act,’’ 

allows companies participating in the program established by Section 8(a) of the Small Business Act (‘‘the 8(a) program’’) 18 additional months of participation if those companies were located in a 

parish in the state of Louisiana that was declared a disaster as a 

result of Hurricane Katrina. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 1468 was introduced in the House by Rep. Jefferson on 

March 12, 2007. The bill was referred to the House Committee on 

Small Business. The legislation was marked-up and reported favorably out of the Committee on March 15, 2007 on a voice vote. On 

March 26, 2007, the bill was considered by the House under suspension of the rules and passed by a voice vote. On March 27, 

2007, H.R. 1468 was received in the Senate, read twice and referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. 

No further action has been taken on this legislation. 

SMALL BUSINESS FAIRNESS IN CONTRACTING ACT

(H.R. 1873)

To reauthorize the programs and activities of the Small Business 

Administration relating to procurement, and for other purposes. 

Summary 

H.R. 1873, the Small Business Fairness in Contracting Act, 

amends the Small Business Act to provide greater opportunities for 

small businesses in the procurement arena. 

The bill closes loopholes in the definition of contract bundling, 

explicitly requiring both new work and construction to be screened 

for potential bundling. 

The bill raises the small business contracting goal to 30 percent 

and includes overseas work, both of which will encourage greater 

participation of small businesses. 

Finally, H.R. 1873 addresses fraud. Requiring reviews of various 

contracting databases will decrease the likelihood of counting large 

business contracts towards agency small business accomplishments. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 1873 was introduced in the House by Mr. Braley and two 

original cosponsors on April 17, 2007. The bill was referred to the 


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Committee on Small Business. On April 19, 2007, the Committee 

heard testimony on key contracting issues for small businesses and 

how H.R. 1873 would address those problems. The full Committee 

met in open session on April 24, 2007, to consider the legislation 

and ordered H.R. 1873 reported to the House in the nature of a 

substitute. The bill was sequentially referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. The Committee on 

Oversight and Government Reform met in open session on May 1, 

2007, to consider the legislation and ordered H.R. 1873 reported to 

the House in the nature of a substitute. On May 9, 2007, the House 

adopted H. Res. 383, providing for the consideration of H.R. 1873, 

by a vote of 223–197. On May 10, 2007, the House considered H.R. 

1873 and passed the bill, with amendments, by a record vote of 409 

yeas and 13 nays. On May 11, 2007, the bill was received in the 

Senate, read twice, and referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. 

NATIVE AMERICAN SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 2007

(H.R. 2284)

To amend the Small Business Act to expand and improve the assistance provided by Small Business Development Centers to Indian tribe members, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. 

Summary 

The legislation targets federal entrepreneurial development resources to Native American communities. Given limited local resources and economic development opportunities in many of these 

communities, the bill leverages federal resources to support entrepreneurship. 

H.R. 2284 provides grants to Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) to assist entrepreneurs with starting and expanding 

small businesses both within these communities and in the urban 

areas adjacent to reservations. It requires SBDC project recipients 

to adapt activities to the local context by requesting the advice of 

local Tribal Councils (or tribal governments) on how best assist Indian tribe members, Native Alaskans, and Native Hawaiians and 

where to locate satellite centers to provide such services. The legislation also emphasizes the role the Association for Small Business 

Development Centers (ASBDC) will play in promulgating the regulations required under the legislation. The SBA must consult with 

the ASBDC in establishing standards relating to (1) educational, 

technical, and support services to be provided by SBDCs receiving 

grant monies, and (2) any work plan that is required to be submitted by an applicant. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 2284 was introduced by Congressman Tom Udall on May 

10, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Representatives Neil 

Abercrombie, Rau ́l Grijalva, Michael Honda, Michael Michaud, 

James Moran, David Wu, Stephanie Herseth, Betty McCollum, 

Dennis Moore, and Rick Renzi. The bill was referred to the Committee on Small Business. 


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The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on May 16, 

2007, and heard from the SBA’s Acting Assistant Administrator for 

the Office of Entrepreneurial Development on the Administration’s 

views on the legislation. Additionally, the Committee received testimony from the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center, 

the New Mexico Small Business Development Center, and the Association of Women’s Business Centers who testified on the merits 

of the legislation. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on May 

23, 2007, and ordered H.R. 2284 reported to the House with a favorable recommendation by a voice vote. 

On June 18, 2007, the House considered H.R. 2284 and postponed further proceedings on the motion. On June 20, 2007, the 

House passed the bill by a record vote of 351 ayes and 73 nays. On 

June 21, 2007, the bill was received in the Senate, read twice, and 

referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. 

No further action was taken on this legislation in the 110th Congress. 

THE SBA ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS ACT OF 2007

(H.R. 2359)

To reauthorize programs to assist small business concerns, and for 

other purposes. 

Summary 

The SBA Entrepreneurial Development Programs Act of 2007, 

H.R. 2359, amends key sections of the Small Business Act to assist 

small business owners gain the technical expertise associated with 

starting and running a successful business. The bill ensures that 

SBA entrepreneurial development programs reflect the current 

composition of small business owners and have the flexibility to address new needs and conditions. 

H.R. 2359 enhances entrepreneurial development services at the 

agency in three main areas: operational changes, additional mandates, and the representation of entrepreneurial composition in 

program providers. Procedural improvements to SBA administered 

Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) are established to 

maintain high levels of service across the country. The role of 

SBDCs is also expanded, adding to their enumerated functions 

under the Small Business Act. SBA’s SCORE program is also modified to reflect the growing numbers of entrepreneurs from socially 

and economically disadvantaged backgrounds by requiring administrators to recruit and maintain a higher representation of volunteers with diverse backgrounds. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 2359 was introduced by Congressman Joe Sestak on May 

17, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee Chairwoman Nydia Vela ́zquez (NY–12), and Subcommittee on Rural and 

Urban Entrepreneurship, Small Business Committee Chair Heath 

Shuler. The bill was referred to the Committee on Small Business. 


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The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on May 16, 

2007, and heard from the SBA’s Acting Assistant Administrator for 

the Office of Entrepreneurial Development on the Administration’s 

views on the legislation. Additionally, the Committee received testimony from the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center, 

the New Mexico Small Business Development Center, and the Association of Women’s Business Centers who testified on the merits 

of the legislation. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on May 

23, 2007, and ordered H.R. 2359 reported to the House with a favorable recommendation by a voice vote. 

On June 18, 2007, the House considered H.R. 2359 and postponed further proceedings on the motion. On June 20, 2007, the 

House passed the bill by a record vote of 405 ayes and 18 nays. On 

June 21, 2007, the bill was received in the Senate, read twice, and 

placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. (Calendar No. 218). 

No further action was taken on this legislation in the 110th Congress. 

THE SBA VETERANS’ PROGRAMS ACT OF 2007

(H.R. 2366)

To reauthorize the veterans entrepreneurial development programs 

of the Small Business Administration, and for other purposes. 

Summary 

The SBA Veterans’ Programs Act of 2007, H.R. 2366, amends key 

sections of the Small Business Act to promote increased veterans 

entrepreneurship. The bill was designed to ensure veterans have 

affordable, timely, and comprehensive access to start or grow small 

businesses through targeted resources and expertise at the agency. 

H.R. 2366 enhances assistance to veteran entrepreneurs in three 

main areas: outreach, business counseling, and entrepreneurial development resources. The bill expands outreach to all service members by requiring SBA to participate at Transition Assistance 

Workshops located at military bases and to compile as well as distribute information on entrepreneurial development resources for 

women veterans. Additional resources are established to enable existing general business counseling centers located in communities 

across the country to develop new programs designed to support 

the sector’s entrepreneurial needs. Building on the success of the 

agency’s veterans programs, the bill also expands the network of 

counseling centers designed to specifically assist this population. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 2366 was introduced by Congressman Vern Buchanan on 

May 17, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee Ranking Member Steve Chabot, Committee Chairwoman Nydia 

Vela ́zquez, and Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship, Small Business Committee Chair Heath Shuler. The bill was 

referred to the Committee on Small Business. 

The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on May 16, 

2007, and heard from the SBA’s Acting Assistant Administrator for 


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the Office of Entrepreneurial Development on the Administration’s 

views on the legislation. Additionally, the Committee received testimony from the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center, 

the New Mexico Small Business Development Center, and the Association of Women’s Business Centers who testified on the merits 

of the legislation. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on May 

23, 2007, and ordered H.R. 2366 reported to the House with a favorable recommendation by a voice vote. 

On June 18, 2007, the House considered H.R. 2366 and passed 

the bill by a voice vote. On June 19, 2007, the bill was received in 

the Senate, read twice, and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar 

under General Orders. 

No further action was taken on this legislation in the 110th Congress. 

THE SMALL ENERGY EFFICIENT BUSINESSES ACT

(H.R. 2389, AND LATER INCORPORATE INTO H.R. 3221)

A bill to help small businesses to develop, invest in, and purchase 

energy efficient buildings, fixtures, equipment, and technology. 

Summary 

H.R. 2389, the Small Energy Efficient Business Act (SEEBA) 

provides information, technical assistance, and access to capital to 

help small businesses implement, develop, and market energy efficient goods, products, and services. The bill requires the Small 

Business Administration (SBA) to adapt existing lending and investment programs to provide incentives and needed capital for 

small business energy innovations and improvements. 

The bill establishes a new lending program that would provide 

7(a) loans that cost half the upfront guaranty and ongoing annual 

lender fees of regular 7(a) loans and a 90 percent guarantee if the 

proceeds of the loan are used to purchase or develop energy efficient technologies or reduce the borrower’s energy consumption by 

10 percent or more. The bill also permits small businesses to receive loans under the Certified Development Company Loan program (known as the 504 program) if the proceeds of the loan are 

used to reduce the borrower’s energy consumption by at least 10 

percent. 

H.R. 2389 also adapts the SBA’s investment programs to achieve 

increased investment in small businesses involved in the research, 

development, production, or marketing of energy efficient goods, 

products, or services by permitting licensed debenture SBICs to 

issue special Energy Saving (ES) Debentures that provide substantial benefits over existing debentures. 

H.R. 2389 also creates a new program within the Small Business 

Investment Act of 1958 called the ‘‘Renewable Fuel Capital Investment Company’’ (RFCIC) program. This program will authorize the 

creation of new Renewable Fuel Capital Investment Companies 

(RFCICs) that issue SBA guaranteed debentures to invest in small 

businesses engaged in researching, manufacturing, developing, and 

bringing to market renewable energy sources. The debentures have 

discounts and deferred interest to reflect the development period. 


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The bill also reforms other SBA programs to make the agency a 

focal point for national small business energy strategy. H.R. 2389 

directs the administrator of the SBA to develop and carry-out a national program to collect and provide small businesses with information about methods to promote energy savings-including best 

practices, energy saving equipment and operations, and the latest 

information on renewable energy sources. Additionally, the administrator is directed to produce a strategy for helping small businesses understand the cost savings from improved energy efficiency 

and identify programs that can help finance small business upgrades for this system. 

H.R. 2389 also establishes a new program under which Small 

Business Development Centers (SBDCs) can apply for special 

grants to help small and medium-sized firms evaluate energy efficiency and green building opportunities, understand the cost benefits of the efficiency measures or green building, secure financing 

to achieve energy efficiency or construction of green buildings, and 

empower management to implement energy efficiency projects. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 2389 was introduced by Congressman Heath Shuler on May 

17, 2007. Small Business Committee Chairwoman Nydia Vela ́zquez 

was an original cosponsor. The bill was referred to the Committee 

on Small Business. 

The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on May 16, 

2007, and heard from the Small Business administration on its 

views concerning H.R. 2389. The Committee also received testimony from representatives from the Wharton School in affiliation 

with the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center, and 

the Sustainable Energy Coalition who testified in support of the 

bill. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on May 

23, 2007, and ordered H.R. 2389 reported to the House, with no 

amendments, by a voice vote. 

This bill text was generally incorporated in H.R. 3221, Division 

A, the New Direction for Energy Independence, National Security, 

and Consumer Protection Act. On August 4, 2007, H.R. 3221 

passed the House by a vote of 241 to 172. Further, the provisions 

of H.R. 2389 that were incorporated into H.R. 3221 were generally 

incorporated into the Omnibus energy legislation which was enacted in H.R. 6, and which became Public Law 110–140 on December 19, 2007. 

THE SBA WOMEN’S BUSINESS PROGRAMS ACT OF 2007

(H.R. 2397)

To reauthorize the women’s entrepreneurial development programs 

of the Small Business Administration, and for other purposes. 

Summary 

The SBA Women’s Business Programs Act of 2007, H.R. 2397, 

amends key sections of the Small Business Act to support the continued growth of women entrepreneurs, especially from underserved communities, including socio-economically disadvantaged 


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and rural areas. The bill strengthens existing entrepreneurial development programs at the agency to ensure they continue to serve 

a unique and important role assisting women business owners. 

H.R. 2397 supports the growth of women entrepreneurs in two 

ways: enhancing research conducted on women entrepreneurship 

issues; and establishing a more targeted approach to funding Women’s Business Centers. The bill requires the National Women’s 

Business Council to consult with Congress and conduct at least one 

study per year on current issues affecting women entrepreneurs. It 

also mandates that the Council update the Committee on modifications to its plans and programs. A funding forma is established 

that allocated federal resources to both new and existing Women’s 

Business Centers, which provide outreach and entrepreneurial development assistance through a network of sites located throughout 

the country. The bill promotes the expansion of these centers into 

underserved areas by reducing the matchmaking requirement for 

communities lacking investment and requiring centers to target 

their programs to clients in these communities. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 2397 was introduced by Congresswoman Mary Fallin on 

May 21, 2007. Cosponsors included the Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology, Small Business Committee Chair Bruce 

Braley and Representative Albert Wynn. The bill was referred to 

the Committee on Small Business. 

The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on May 16, 

2007, and heard from the SBA’s Acting Assistant Administrator for 

the Office of Entrepreneurial Development on the Administration’s 

views on the legislation. Additionally, the Committee received testimony from the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center, 

the New Mexico Small Business Development Center, and the Association of Women’s Business Centers who testified on the merits 

of the legislation. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on May 

23, 2007, and ordered H.R. 2397 reported to the House with a favorable recommendation by a voice vote. 

On June 18, 2007, the House considered H.R. 2397 and passed 

the bill by a voice vote. On June 19, 2007, the bill was received in 

the Senate, read twice, and referred to the Committee on Small 

Business and Entrepreneurship. 

No further action was taken on this legislation in the 110th Congress. 

SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION DISASTER LOAN PROGRAM

PROVISIONS IN THE FOOD, CONSERVATION, AND ENERGY ACT OF 2008

(H.R. 2419)

Summary 

H.R. 2419 establishes two bridge loan programs for private sector 

lenders. In a catastrophic disaster, the SBA can authorize private 

lenders to make 180 day loans of up to $150,000 at not more then 

1 percent over the prime rate to businesses that are otherwise eligible for a disaster loan. In all disasters, private lenders can make 

loans of up to $25,000 and receive an SBA guaranty within 36 


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hours for up to 85 percent of the loan amount. Both loans would 

be transitioned into a standard SBA disaster loan once it has been 

made. These bridge loans will get financial assistance to businesses 

while they await processing or disbursement of their conventional 

SBA loan or insurance payments. 

This bill also creates a program to allow private lenders to make 

disaster loans after a catastrophic disaster. These loans will carry 

the same terms and benefits as conventional SBA disaster loans. 

All lenders would be eligible to make loans to small businesses, but 

only lenders who are preferred lenders in the 7(a) program could 

make loans to individuals. The bill also provides the SBA with authority to pay a fee to private lenders to process loans during times 

when the SBA’s processing capabilities are overwhelmed in order 

to prevent application backlogs and ensure timely approval and 

disbursement of loan proceeds. 

The bill authorizes the SBA to make economic injury disaster 

loans to businesses located outside the geographic area of a catastrophic disaster, if they suffer economic injury as a direct result 

of the disaster. The businesses must have suffered identifiable economic injury as a direct result of the disaster, and this program 

will only be available in periods for which the Administrator has 

declared eligibility for additional disaster assistance. 

The bill raises the maximum amount of an SBA disaster loan 

from the current level of $1,500,000 to $2,000,000, and raises the 

maximum amount of unsecured disaster loans from $10,000 to 

$14,000. It also gives the SBA Administrator the authority to make 

new disaster loans and refinance existing loans from Hurricanes 

Katrina and Rita with a four-year deferment period. 

The bill adds several requirements to improve the SBA’s coordination with FEMA. The agency will also be required to conduct biennial disaster simulation exercises and create a comprehensive 

disaster response plan for various disaster scenarios. The SBA will 

be required to improve its communication with the public when disaster assistance is made available. The bill also creates a new position for a high-level disaster planning expert who will operate independently from the Office of Disaster Assistance and will oversee 

the disaster planning and readiness of the agency. Finally, the bill 

will ensure that the SBA maintains adequate loan processing staff 

and reserve cadre. 

Legislative history 

On April 9, 2008, Chairwoman Vela ́zquez, Ranking Member 

Chabot, and Representative Chabot were appointed as conferees for 

consideration of SBA disaster loan program provisions contained in 

subtitle D of title XI of the Senate amendment to H.R. 2419, the 

Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008. The final Conference 

report contained these provisions, as amended, regarding the SBA’s 

disaster loan program in Subtitle B of Title XII. 

On May 14, 2008 the Conference report to H.R. 2419 (H. Rept. 

110–627) was agreed to in the House by recorded vote of 318–106 

(Roll no. 315). 

On May 15, 2008, the Conference report was agreed to in the 

Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 81–15. (Record Vote Number: 130). H.R. 


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2419 was subsequently presented to President on May 20, 2008 

and vetoed by the President on May 21, 2008. 

On May 21, 2008, H.R. 2419 passed the House over veto, twothirds of the Members present having voted in the affirmative by 

a vote of 316–108 (Roll no. 346). 

On May 22, 2008, H.R. 2419 passed the Senate over veto by YeaNay Vote of 82–13 (Record Vote Number: 140), and became Public 

Law No: 110–234. 

THE SBA TRADE PROGRAMS ACT OF 2007

(H.R. 2992)

To amend the Small Business Act to improve trade programs, and 

for other purposes. 

Summary 

H.R. 2992, the SBA Trade Programs Act of 2007, amends key 

sections of the Small Business Act to enhance the agency’s institutional focus on the global pressures and opportunities for small 

businesses operating in a market without borders. The legislation 

targets resources for the agency’s export assistance programs and 

establishes a new mandate to help small businesses prepare for 

competition against increasing foreign competitors in domestic and 

global markets. 

H.R. 2992 modernizes the agency’s trade programs through four 

components. The bill provides for the agency’s expanded role integrating small business needs into international trade commitments 

and national policies. It also mandates that the agency develops 

and coordinate the implementation of a small-business based trade 

strategy and a system to track these firms’ benefits from the use 

of Federal trade promotion resources. Trade remedy and dispute 

assistance tools are developed to prepare these firms against unfair 

trade practices and to safeguard their patents, trademarks and 

copyrights in foreign countries. Trade adjustment assistance resources, including technical and financial assistance, are established for small firms dislocated due to global economic trends. Financing and technical assistance resources at the agency are also 

expanded for eligible small and medium sized exporters. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 2992 was introduced by Congressman John Hall on July 11, 

2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee Chairwoman 

Nydia Vela ́zquez, Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology, 

Small Business Committee Chair Bruce Braley, and Committee 

Vice Chair Joe Sestak. Other original Cosponsors included Representatives Henry Cuellar, Yvette Clarke, and Daniel Lipinski. 

The bill was referred to the Committee on Small Business. 

The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on July 5, 

2007, and heard from the SBA’s Associate Administrator for Capital Access at the U.S. Small Business Administration on the Administration’s views on the legislation. Additionally, the Committee 

received testimony from the Small Business Exporters Association 

of the United States and the Precision Metalforming Association 


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who testified on the merits of the legislation testified in support of 

its provisions. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on July 

19, 2007, and ordered H.R. 2992 reported to the House with a favorable recommendation by a voice vote. 

On September 4, 2007, the House considered H.R. 2992 and 

passed the bill by a voice vote. On September 5, 2007, the bill was 

received in the Senate, read twice, and referred to the Committee 

on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. 

No further action was taken on this legislation in the 110th Congress. 

THE MICROLOAN AMENDMENTS MODERNIZATION ACT OF 2007

(H.R. 3020)

To amend the Small Business Act to improve the Microloan program, and for other purposes. 

Summary 

H.R. 3020, The Microloan Amendments and Modernization Act 

(MAMA) will encourage participation in the Microloan program by 

qualified intermediaries (technical assistance providers and lenders) and aspiring entrepreneurs. H.R. 3020 amends the program for 

the first time in eight years and responds to observations about 

barriers to participation indicated to the Committee by intermediaries/lenders, business participants and academics who have 

studied the program. The Small Business Administration (SBA), 

which operates the program, is directed to help in this effort and 

to work with the intermediaries to find a way to report the repayment records of borrowers to major credit agencies and expand 

their capital access options. In addition, the Committee wants to 

move the Program for Investment in MicroEnterprise (PRIME) into 

the Small Business Act merging the program’s authorization with 

most of the other programs run by the SBA. 

The bill makes changes to the terms that can be offered on loans 

to allow more flexibility. The current statute requires intermediary 

lenders to offer only ‘‘short-term’’ loans. However, longer-term loans 

or revolving credit allowed by the bill would permit micro-business 

participants to have greater latitude in managing their debt obligations, potentially increasing their profitability. In addition, disabled 

borrowers will be specifically identified as an intended beneficiary 

of microloans in the ‘‘purpose’’ section of the statute, in the same 

manner as current law recognizes women business owners, minority business owners and other deserving groups. Finally, SBA is directed to help ensure that repayment histories of the program’s 

borrowers are duly reported to enhance the credit score of 

microloan participants and broaden their access to low-cost financing. 

H.R. 3020 promotes greater intermediary participation. It modernizes the statutory ceiling on the ‘‘average loan size’’ so more 

intermediaries can qualify for the most favorable interest rate (2 

percent below federal borrowing rate on 5-year Treasury notes) 

raising it to $10,000. H.R. 3020 sets out the kind of equivalent 

lending and counseling experience that would allow a well-trained 


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employee to help a new non-profit participant qualify as an intermediary. In addition, the bill raises the amount of the technical assistance grant that can be used for this ‘‘pre-loan’’ assistance and 

3rd party training to 35 percent from its current level of 25 percent. Finally, H.R. 3020 moves the entire PRIME initiative into the 

Small Business Act and clarifies that the SBA has authority to administer the PRIME program. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 3020 was introduced by Representative Chabot on July 12, 

2007 and that day the full Committee held a legislative hearing on 

H.R. 3020, the Microloan Amendments and Modernization Act 

which was attended by the Associate Administrator of the SBA for 

Capital Access, Dr. Michael Hager, who provided the Administration’s views on H.R. 3020. In addition, three witnesses spoke directly to the impact of the legislation on the microloan program. 

Kristie Darien, the Executive Director of the National Association 

of the Self Employed; Mr. Kevin Kelly of the Association of Enterprise Organizations; and Dr. Cordero-Guzman of Baruch College, 

CUNY, who presented the highlights of his recent study that found 

that micro-lending can be a very valuable tool for starting small 

businesses. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on July 

19, 2007 to consider H.R. 3020 the Microloan Amendments and 

Modernization Act and any amendments. The Committee accepted 

an amendment in the nature of a substitute offered by Chairwoman Vela ́zquez by voice vote. No further amendments were offered. The bill was ordered reported as amended to the House of 

Representatives by a voice vote. The bill was considered on September 4, 2007 under a suspension of the rules and passed the 

House by a vote of 385 to 5. On September 5, 2007 H.R. 3020 was 

received by the Senate, read twice and referred to the Committee 

on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. 

No further action was taken on this legislation in the 110th Congress. 

TO PROVIDE FOR AN ADDITIONAL TEMPORARY EXTENSION OF PROGRAMS UNDER THE SMALL BUSINESS ACT AND THE SMALL BUSINESS

INVESTMENT ACT OF 1958 THROUGH DECEMBER 15, 2007, AND FOR

OTHER PURPOSES

(H.R. 3206)

Summary 

H.R. 3206 extended the programs authorized under the Small 

Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 

through December 15, 2007. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 3206 was introduced by Chairwoman Nydia Vela ́zquez on 

July 27, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee Ranking Member Steve Chabot. The bill was referred to the Committee 

on Small Business. 

On July 30, 2007, the House considered H.R. 3206 under suspension of the rules and was passed by voice vote. 


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On July 31, 2007, H.R. 3206 was received in the Senate and was 

passed by unanimous consent. On August 8, 2007, the legislation 

was signed by the President and became Public Law 110–57. 

SMALL BUSINESS INVESTMENT EXPANSION ACT OF 2007

(H.R. 3567)

A bill to update and expand the Small Business Administration’s 

Investment and Surety Bond programs. 

Summary 

The Small Business Investment Expansion Act of 2007 is aimed 

at three broad goals. First, the bill updates and streamlines three 

programs in the Small Business Investment Act of 1958, the Small 

Business Investment Company (SBIC), New Markets Venture Capital (NMVC) and Surety Bond programs. Second, the bill will leverage a new investment strategy, angel investing, to direct more venture capital toward early stage and startup businesses. Finally, the 

bill will revise SBA rules that inhibit the free flow of venture capital investment to small businesses. 

To streamline the SBIC program, this legislation will simplify 

the current method of calculating maximum leverage caps in favor 

of a straightforward maximum leverage cap that will remain workable for years to come. The bill will also revise limitations on aggregate investments to establish limitations that are more consistent with industry accepted portfolio risk management practices. 

Additional provisions of the bill will increase overall investment in 

smaller enterprises and will also establish incentives to form SBIC 

funds focused on investment in minority and women owned businesses. 

The New Markets Venture Capital program will also be updated 

with provisions that emphasize expanding the program and provide 

additional incentives for investment in small manufacturing companies in low-income areas. The final approval process for conditionally approved NMVC companies will be streamlined by establishing simplified application documents and permitting conditionally approved NMVC companies to receive funding for operational assistance. The operational assistance aspect will also be 

improved by eliminating the requirement that NMVC companies 

raise matching commitments prior to final approval and by simplifying the process for operational grant assistance. Finally, appropriations for the NMVC program will authorized in a total amount 

of $35 million ($30 million to support debentures and $5 million for 

operational assistance grants), of which not less than one quarter 

must be used to support NMVC companies that invest primarily in 

small manufacturers. 

The bill will also establish a new Office of Angel Investment 

within the SBA’s Investment Division. This office will be headed by 

a Director of Angel Investment and will focus on three initiatives 

to increase equity investment in small businesses. 

First, an Angel Investment Program will be established to provide eligible angel groups that have ten or more angel investors 

with matching financing leverage. This leverage will be used to finance early stage small businesses, with priority in financing going 


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to angel groups that invest in small businesses controlled by veterans, women, or socially and economically disadvantaged small 

businesses. This leverage will be repaid to the SBA with a pro rata 

share of returns from the investment. Appropriations for the purpose of providing leverage to angel groups will be authorized in a 

total amount of $50 million. 

Second, a directive will be established within the Office of Angel 

Investment to create a Federal Angel Network. This network will 

be a searchable directory of angel groups available on through the 

SBA’s internet website. Additionally, the directory could be distributed or used by other networks to increase its exposure. The directory will include the names and contact information for angel 

groups and angel investors and will provide information about the 

types of investments each group or investor has made. One million 

dollars will be authorized to be appropriated for the establishment 

of the angel network. 

The Angel Investment Program will also include, a grant initiative to provide eligible state, federal, and nonprofit entities with resources to increase awareness and education about angel investing. 

As a condition of receiving grant assistance, however, eligible entities must provide 50 percent matching contributions, thus amplifying the benefits of grant assistance. This provision will bring 

more attention to the benefits of angel investing and attract more 

angel investors to participate in the program. A total of $4.5 million will be authorized for appropriations to carry out this initiative. 

The bill will also address deficiencies in the Surety Bond program. The maximum permissible bond amount will be increased by 

half to $3 million. The bill will also strengthen surety companies’ 

confidence in the Plan A program by barring the SBA from denying 

indemnity on Plan A guaranties based upon information that was 

provided as part of the guaranty application. The SBA will also be 

required to conduct a study on the program’s current funding structure and report its findings to Congress within 180 days of the 

bill’s enactment. The bill will make the Surety Bond program more 

affordable to small businesses and surety companies by providing 

the SBA with authority to contribute funds for the purpose of reducing the burden associated with surety and contractor fees on 

bond guarantees. 

Finally, the bill modifies the Small Business Act to exclude venture capital investment in SBA’s consideration of whether a firm 

is small for the purposes of the Act. The provision provides that 

when calculating the number of employees of a small business concern that has venture capital investment, the SBA will exclude 

those employees who work for companies affiliated with the venture capital company. The bill requires that the venture capital 

company comply, as appropriate, with federal registration requirements for investment companies. In addition, the bill prevents a 

venture capital that is controlled by a large business or a venture 

capital company with more than 500 employees from being recognized as a venture capital company under this provision. 


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Legislative history 

H.R. 3567 was introduced by Congressman Jason Altmire on 

September 18, 2007. Original Cosponsors included Representatives 

Sam Graves and Chairwoman of the Small Business Committee, 

Nydia Vela ́zquez. The bill was referred to the Committee on Small 

Business. 

The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on September, 

6, 2007, and heard from SBA Administrator Preston on the Administration’s views on the legislative precursor to H.R. 3567. Additionally, the Committee received testimony from the National Venture Capital Association, the Biotechnology Industry Organization, 

the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, the National Association of Small Business Investment Companies, the 

American Insurance Association and the Surety and Fidelity Association of America, and Community Development Venture Capital 

Alliance, who all testified in support of the proposed legislation. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on September 25, 2007, and ordered H.R. 3567 reported to the House, 

with no amendments, by a voice vote. 

On September 26, 2007, the House adopted H. Res. 682, providing for consideration of H.R. 3567 under a modified open rule, 

by a record vote of 222–181. Also on that day, the House considered 

H.R. 3567 and passed the bill with four amendments, by a record 

vote of 325 ayes and 72 nays. On September 28, 2007, the bill was 

received in the Senate, read twice and referred to the Committee 

on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. 

No further action was taken on this legislation in the 110th Congress. 

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAMS ACT OF 2007

(H.R. 3866)

Summary 

H.R. 3866, the Small Business Programs Act of 2007, provides 

authorization levels for the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 

programs for fiscal years 2008 and 2009. This includes loan levels 

for the 7(a), 7(m), and 504 loan programs, as well as for the Small 

Business Investment Company program. In addition, the legislation provides authorization levels for entrepreneurial programs, including the Small Business Development Center and the Women’s 

Business Center programs. Finally, it provides authorization levels 

for the PRIME, BusinessLINC, HUBZone, the Office of Veterans 

Business Development, the Advisory Committee on Veterans Business Affairs extension, and National Women’s Business Council. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 3866 was introduced in the House by Rep. Vela ́zquez on October 17, 2007. Original co-sponsors included Committee Member 

Ms. Clarke. The bill was referred to the House Committee on Small 

Business. 

On September 27, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held 

a hearing, and heard from the SBA Deputy Administrator on the 

agency’s views on the legislation. Other witnesses included the AsVerDate Nov 24 2008 02:51 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6602 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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sociation for Enterprise Opportunity, the National Association of 

Development Companies, the Association of Small Business Development Centers, and the Credit Union National Association. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on October 18, 2007, and ordered H.R. 3866 reported to the House with a 

favorable recommendation by voice vote. On November 6, 2007, the 

bill was considered by the House under a motion to suspend the 

rules and pass the bill. The bill passed the House by voice vote. On 

November 8, 2007, H.R. 3867 was received in the Senate. On January 22, 2008, the Senate read the legislation twice and referred it 

to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. 

No further action has been taken on this legislation in the 110th 

Congress. 

SMALL BUSINESS CONTRACTING PROGRAM IMPROVEMENTS ACT

(H.R. 3867)

To update and expand the procurement programs of the Small 

Business Administration. 

Summary 

H.R. 3867, the Small Business Contracting Program Improvements Act, modifies, updates, and in one case, implements procurement programs offered by the Small Business Administration 

(SBA). These programs include the procurement program for service-disabled veterans, the women’s procurement program, the 

HUBZone program and the 8(a) program. The bill also corrects a 

number of inconsistencies in the management of these programs so 

that they operate similarly. Lastly, the legislation modifies the 

treatment of franchises by the SBA and provides a sense of Congress with respect to the treatment of small businesses under the 

General Services Administration’s Federal Supply Schedules, 

among other matters. 

The measure expands procurement opportunities for businesses 

owned and controlled by service disabled veterans by making the 

procurement program for these companies mandatory rather than 

discretionary, thus ensuring that these firms are the first choice 

among small businesses for federal contracts. New penalties are 

imposed for companies that falsely represent their status as service-disabled veteran-owned. Teeth are added to Executive Order 

13360 requiring that the SBA fulfill its obligations under the 

Order. Additionally, the bill ensures that severely service-disabled 

veterans have the highest priority for federal contracts. 

By imposing a standard of business integrity, applying both 

prime and subcontracting goals, standardizing the size of contracts 

eligible, and expanding bid protest authority, the bill ensures that 

all of the SBA’s procurement programs operate in the same manner. 

The legislation allows the women’s procurement program to be 

fully implemented upon enactment. By identifying the industries in 

which women are under-represented, the bill removes the uncertainties that have kept the program from getting up and running. 

To ensure that only eligible companies receive contracts, the bill 

requires verification of a HUBZone firm’s status prior to the award 


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of the business’s second contract awarded with the HUBZone preference. The bill also limits construction contracts to within 150 

miles of the company’s eligible HUBZone and requires an evaluation by the SBA to identify whether eligible areas are being overlooked in the current calculation for identification of HUBZones. 

The Small Business Contracting Program Improvements Act also 

updates the SBA’s 8(a) program. It does this by providing an inflationary adjustment to the entry net worth limitation and removes 

that restriction once a company has been certified. The program’s 

nine-year limitation will be extended by one year and the ten years 

will be divided between a six-year developmental phase and a fouryear transitional phase. The SBA will be required to report on 

what changes are needed to the program to ensure that companies 

with less equity in their business than others are able to receive 

access to contracts. The agency will also be tasked with reporting 

on an examination of whether more individuals should be presumed to be socially disadvantaged, and on the status of the implementation of legislation designed to streamline state departments 

of transportation applications for disadvantaged business certification for companies who are already 8(a) program participants. 

The legislation also relaxes the affiliation standard for franchises 

in the temporary employment industry to comport with common industry practices. It provides for a sense of the House that small 

business-only competitions should be allowed for GSA Federal Supply Schedule vendors. The SBA must conduct a study evaluating 

whether frivolous bid protests are being used to delay contract performance periods to the detriment of small businesses, and must 

create a liaison position to interface with the Department of Homeland Security for the purpose of ensuring that small businesses 

who employ undocumented workers are not able to participate in 

SBA’s contracting programs. Lastly, the bill prohibits SBA employees from purchasing first- or business-class airline accommodations. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 3867 was introduced in the House by Rep. Vela ́zquez on October 17, 2007. Original co-sponsors included Committee Members 

Ms. Fallin and Ms. Clarke, as well as Rep. Silvestre Reyes. The bill 

was referred to the House Committee on Small Business. 

On October 4, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held a 

hearing, and heard from the SBA Administrator on the Administration’s views on the legislation. Other witnesses included the 

American Legion, the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and 

the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the National Small 

Business Association who testified in support of the bill’s provisions. An attorney in private practice also testified. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on October 18, 2007, and ordered H.R. 3867 reported to the House with a 

favorable recommendation by a recorded vote of 21 yeas and 4 

nays. On October 30, 2007, the bill was considered by the House 

under a structured rule. Ten amendments were made in order 

under the rule. All ten amendments were approved by voice votes. 

The bill passed the House with a vote of 334 yeas and 80 nays. On 

November 1, 2007, H.R. 3867 was received in the Senate, read 


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twice and referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. 

No further action has been taken on this legislation in the 110th 

Congress. 

TO PROVIDE FOR AN ADDITIONAL TEMPORARY EXTENSION OF PROGRAMS UNDER THE SMALL BUSINESS ACT AND THE SMALL BUSINESS

INVESTMENT ACT OF 1958 THROUGH MAY 23, 2008, AND FOR OTHER

PURPOSES

(H.R. 4252)

Summary 

H.R. 4252 extended the programs authorized under the Small 

Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 

through May 23, 2008. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 4252 was introduced by Ranking Member Steve Chabot on 

December 4, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee 

Chairwoman Nydia Vela ́zquez. The bill was referred to the Committee on Small Business. 

On December 5, 2007, the House considered H.R. 4252 under 

suspension of the rules and was passed by voice vote. 

On December 7, 2007, H.R. 4252 was received in the Senate and 

was passed by unanimous consent. On December 14, 2007, the legislation was signed by the President and became Public Law 110– 

136. 

MILITARY RESERVIST AND VETERAN SMALL BUSINESS

REAUTHORIZATION AND OPPORTUNITY ACT OF 2007

(H.R. 4253)

A bill to improve and expand small business assistance programs 

for veterans of the armed forces and military reservists. 

Summary 

H.R. 4253, the Military Reservist and Veteran Small Business 

Reauthorization and Opportunity Act of 2007, makes several improvements to the SBA’s lending and entrepreneurial development 

programs to benefit veterans of the U.S. military. The bill increases 

funding for the SBA’s Office of Veterans’ Business Development 

and requires the SBA to increase the number of Veterans Business 

Outreach Centers throughout the U.S. 

The bill establishes an interagency task force consisting of senior 

level representatives from the SBA as well as from several other 

Federal agencies and representatives from veteran’s service organizations to coordinate the efforts of Federal agencies to improve and 

expand access to veteran’s services and programs. The bill also establishes a National Reservist Enterprise Transition and Sustainability program through which the SBA will provide competitive 

grant awards to Small Business Development Centers, Women’s 

Business Centers, Veterans Business Outreach Centers, and any 

other veteran’s business assistance program so that they may proVerDate Nov 24 2008 02:51 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6602 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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vide veteran-owned businesses with management, financing, procurement, technical, and regulatory assistance. 

The bill also makes several changes to the SBA’s disaster assistance program to simplify and improve the agency’s ability to provide military deployment economic injury disaster (MREIDL) loans. 

The bill increases the maximum loan amount from $1.5 million to 

$2 million and authorizes the SBA to make MREIDLoans of up to 

$50 thousand without collateral. The bill also directs the SBA to 

give priority in consideration to MREIDL loan applications prior to 

processing, approving, or disbursing other disaster loans. 

Finally, H.R. 4253 establishes an Increased Veteran Participation Program to provide veteran-owned small businesses with improved access to the SBA’s largest lending program, the 7(a) loan 

program. Loans made under the Increased Veteran Participation 

Program would have no borrower guaranty fee, no ongoing annual 

lender fee, and would provide up to a 90 percent guarantee for veteran-owned small businesses. 

Legislative history 

H.R. 4253 was introduced by Congressman Jason Altmire on December 4, 2007. Original co-sponsors for H.R. 4253 included Congressman Vern Buchanan (FL–13), Congressman Steve Chabot 

(OH–1), and Chairwoman of the Small Business Committee, Nydia 

Vela ́zquez (NY–12). The bill was referred to the Committee on 

Small Business. 

On December 5, 2007, the House considered H.R. 4253 under 

suspension of the rules (CR H14218–14223). At the conclusion of 

debate, the yeas and nays were demanded and ordered. On motion 

to suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 4253 was passed by 

a record vote of 407 yeas to 2 nays (Roll no. 1138). 

On December 7, 2007, H.R. 4253 was received in the Senate. On 

December 19, 2007, the Senate struck all after the enacting clause 

and inserted in lieu S. 1784. This passed the Senate by unanimous 

consent on the same day. On January 16, 2008, the House agreed 

to the Senate amendment with an amendment pursuant to H. Res. 

921. On January 31, 2008, the Senate agreed to the House amendment to the amendment. On February 14, 2008, the legislation was 

signed by the President and became Public Law 110–86. 

SMALL BUSINESS REGULATORY IMPROVEMENT ACT

(H.R. 4458)

To amend chapter 6 of title 5, United States Code (commonly 

known as the Regulatory Flexibility Act), to ensure complete analysis of potential impacts on small entities of rules, and for other 

purposes. 

Summary 

H.R. 4458 seeks to require federal agencies to fully consider the 

economic impacts of regulations on small businesses, improve agency reviews of existing rules affecting small firms, and give small 

businesses a greater voice in the rulemaking process. 

One of the biggest loopholes in the Regulatory Flexibility Act is 

that it does not define what constitutes an ‘‘economic impact’’ on 


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39 

small businesses. Under current law, agencies are not required to 

consider indirect economic impacts of rules on small businesses. 

Agencies are using this loophole to avoid conducting analysis where 

an economic impact of a rule is reasonably foreseeable on small 

firms. H.R. 4458 closes this loophole by requiring agencies to consider reasonably foreseeable indirect impacts. The Government Accountability Office has reported that agency compliance with Section 610 of RegFlex has been minimal. Section 610 requires agencies to review existing rules periodically and to consider eliminating unnecessary requirements to reduce the overall regulatory 

burden on small entities. Poor compliance has been attributed to 

a lack of clarity in RegFlex. H.R. 4458 clarifies to agencies what 

rules need to be reviewed and when reviews need to be conducted. 

In addition, the legislation codifies Executive Order 13272, which 

requires agencies to notify the Office of Advocacy of proposed rules 

that may impact small businesses before such rules are published 

in the Federal Register. Earlier notification will provide the Office 

of Advocacy with a greater opportunity to assist agencies in 

RegFlex compliance. 

Legislative history 

On December 6, 2007, the Committee held a hearing on Legislation to Improve the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The Chief Counsel 

for Advocacy at the Small Business Administration, Thomas M. 

Sullivan delivered testimony. Representatives of small businesses 

discussed the legislation and how it would increase the effectiveness of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. H.R. 4458 was introduced by 

Mr. Ellsworth on December 12, 2007 and referred to the Committee 

on the Judiciary and, in addition, to the Committee on Small Business. On November 14, the Committee on Small Business ordered 

the measure reported by a vote of 26 yeas and no nays. No further 

action has been taken on the legislation. 

SBIR/STTR REAUTHORIZATION ACT

(H.R. 5819)

To amend the Small Business Act to improve the Small Business 

Innovation Research (SBIR) program and the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program, and for other purposes. 

Summary 

The SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act extends for a period of two 

years the Federal government’s largest small business research 

and development programs. The legislation modernizes the Small 

Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, changing the legislative guidelines and policies in order to update the program in response to the unique challenges facing small research companies 

and the changing research priorities of Federal agencies. 

The Act is aimed at three broad goals. First, the bill seeks to encourage greater participation in SBIR. An increase in the number 

of small businesses applying for SBIR is critical to the on-going 

success of the program. Second, the bill permits small companies 

that are majority-owned by qualifying venture capital firms to participate in the SBIR program. A 2003 ruling by the Small Business 


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Administration (SBA) has made small firms with large investments 

from venture capital companies ineligible to participate in the 

SBIR program. The SBA ruling forces many small businesses to 

choose between accepting investments from venture capital firms 

and participating in the Federal government’s largest R&D program for small research firms. Third, the bill seeks to encourage 

and support commercialization initiatives at Federal agencies that 

administer SBIR programs. Under current law certain Federal 

agencies have the authority to develop commercialization programs. This bill extends to all agencies the authority to develop 

programs designed to support the commercialization of SBIR-funded research. 

Additionally, the bill seeks to codify in statute the programmatic 

flexibility that Federal agencies need in order to administer SBIR 

awards in a manner that is most consistent with the agency’s specific mission. The SBIR policy directive issued by the SBA has provided a great deal of autonomy to the Federal agencies, the bill 

codifies agency autonomy with respect to administering their SBIR 

programs. Along with granting to Federal agencies a great degree 

of autonomy, the bill also requires Federal agencies to establish 

more concrete goals and objectives with respect to their SBIR programs and directs the agencies to provide Congress with more regular reports. 

Legislative history 

In the 110th Congress, the Committee on Small Business convened three hearings on the reauthorization of the SBIR program. 

On January 29, 2008, the House Committee on Small Business convened a hearing entitled ‘‘SBIR: America’s Technology Development 

Incubator.’’ The hearing explored the numerous contributions that 

the SBIR program makes to national security priorities, economic 

development objectives and America’s international economic competitiveness. On February 13, 2008 the House Committee on Small 

Business, Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight convened 

a hearing entitled ‘‘SBIR: Advancing Medical Innovations.’’ The 

Subcommittee hearing examined the impact of the SBIR program 

on the development of innovative medical technologies, therapies 

and products. On March 13, 2008 the Committee on Small Business held a hearing to review a Committee Print of proposed legislation that would reauthorize and modernize the SBIR program. 

The Committee on Small Business met in open session on April 17, 

2008 and ordered H.R. 5819 reported, as amended, to the House by 

a recorded vote. Only one amendment, offered by Ms. Vela ́zquez, 

was offered at the markup. That amendment was adopted by voice 

vote. The bill was ordered reported by a vote of 20–0. 

On April 23, 2008, the bill was considered by the House under 

a structured rule. Seventeen were made in order under the rule. 

Twelve amendments were approved by voice vote, three amendments were agreed to by recorded vote, and two amendments were 

withdrawn. The bill passed the House with a vote of 368 yeas and 

43 nays. On April 24, 2008, H.R. 5819 was received in the Senate, 

read twice and referred to the Committee on Small Business and 

Entrepreneurship. 


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No further action has been taken on this legislation in the 110th 

Congress. 

SMALL BUSINESS FINANCING IMPROVEMENTS ACT OF 2008

(H.R. 7175)

To amend the Small Business Act to improve the section 7(a) lending program, and for other purposes. 

Summary 

H.R. 7175, the Small Business Financing Improvements Act of 

2008, updates and streamlines the SBA’s two largest small business finance programs, the 7(a) and 504 (also known as the Certified Development Company) programs, as well as the Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) program. The bill improves the 

efficiency of the secondary market for small commercial loans by 

permitting the pooling of such loans based on a weighted average 

interest of the underlying loans in the pool. In addition, the bill establishes an alternative size standard for the 7(a) program. This 

provision will provide a simplified standard for determining small 

business loan eligibility, encouraging greater lender participation 

in the 7(a) program. 

The Small Business Lending Improvements Act of 2007 also 

modernizes and improves the 504, Certified Development Company, program by making an array of technical changes to the program and addressing two of the program’s most evident problems. 

The bill improves the program’s ability to liquidate defaulted loans 

by permitting CDCs to either foreclose and liquidate defaulted 

loans or to contract with a qualified third party to do so. The bill 

enhances the ties between CDCs and the communities that they 

serve by requiring CDCs to include locals on the board of directors. 

The bill also establishes a uniform leasing policy, permits closing 

costs to be included in loan amounts, and provides for limited refinancing of existing debt. 

Finally, H.R. 7175 makes two important changes to the SBIC 

program. The bill simplifies the SBIC leverage cap rules to a single 

formula, regardless of the amount of private capital that the SBIC 

has, with a maximum leverage cap of $150 million. This will make 

‘‘transition’’ leverage available for SBIC companies under common 

control so that successful SBICs may operate a second or third 

fund while still maintaining safeguards against increased risk to 

the SBA and a maximum leverage cap for SBICs under common 

control. 

In addition, the legislation revises the current limit on the 

amount that can be invested in any one portfolio company to standards that are more consistent with industry accepted portfolio risk 

management practices. This change would apply the portfolio management rule (‘‘no more than 10 percent should be invested in any 

one company’’) that is the accepted norm in the non-SBIC venture 

capital world and would ensure that SBIC management teams had 

both the financial and time resources required to help their portfolio companies achieve their growth goals. 


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Legislative history 

H.R. 7175 was introduced by Chairwoman Nydia Vela ́zquez on 

September 27, 2008. Original Cosponsors included the Committee 

Ranking Member Steve Chabot and Committee Members Yvette 

Clarke, Henry Cuellar, and David Davis. The bill was referred to 

the Committee on Small Business. 

On September 27, 2008, the House considered H.R. 7175 under 

suspension of the rules. On September 29, 2008, the House passed 

H.R. 7175 by a recorded vote of 374 ayes and 6 nays. On September 30, 2008, the bill was received in the Senate. 

No further action was taken on this legislation in the 110th Congress. 

RECOGNIZING THE PLUMBING INDUSTRY AND SUPPORTING THE GOALS

AND IDEALS OF ‘‘NATIONAL PLUMBING INDUSTRY WEEK’’ 

(H. RES. 1082)

Summary 

H. Res. 1082 recognizes the importance of the plumbing industry 

and supports the goals and ideals of ‘‘National Plumbing Industry 

Week.’’ 

Legislative history 

H. Res. 1082 was introduced by Chairwoman Nydia Vela ́zquez on 

April 8, 2008. Original Cosponsors included the Committee Ranking Member Steve Chabot. The bill was referred to the Committee 

on Small Business. 

On April 9, 2008, the House considered H. Res. 1082 under suspension of the rules and it passed by voice vote. 

RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR OF THE FOUNDING OF

MACY’S, INC., AS AN AMERICAN ENTREPRENEURIAL SUCCESS STORY

AND THE ROLE MACY’S, INC., PLAYS IN SUPPORTING AMERICA’S

SMALL BUSINESSES

(H. RES. 1473)

Summary 

H. Res. 1473 recognizes the 150th anniversary year of the founding of Macy’s, Inc., as an American entrepreneurial success story 

and the role Macy’s, Inc., plays in supporting America’s small businesses and vendors, including those that are minority and women 

owned; celebrating the vision, innovativeness, and ingenuity of all 

of our Nation’s small businesses that aspire to grow and prosper 

as Macy’s, Inc., has over its 150-year history; and congratulating 

Macy’s, Inc., as an American entrepreneurial success story. 

Legislative history 

H. Res. 1473 was introduced by Ranking Member Steve Chabot 

on September 22, 2008. Original Cosponsors included the Committee Chairwoman Nydia Vela ́zquez. The bill was referred to the 

Committee on Small Business. 

On September 23, 2008, the House considered H. Res. 1473 

under suspension of the rules and it passed by voice vote. 


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FULL COMMITTEE

OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES

OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION’S ANNUAL

BUDGET PROPOSALS

On February 8, 2007 the Committee on Small Business held a 

hearing of the SBA’s proposed budget for FY 2008. This hearing included a review of the administration’s funding requests as well as 

their key policy initiatives for the fiscal year. The Committee heard 

testimony from SBA Administrator Steven Preston. 

On February 7, 2008 the Committee on Small Business held a 

hearing of the SBA’s proposed budget for FY 2009. This hearing included a review of the administration’s funding requests as well as 

their key policy initiatives for the fiscal year. The Committee heard 

testimony from SBA Administrator Steven Preston. 

OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION’S ACCESS TO

CAPITAL PROGRAMS

On March 1, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held an 

oversight hearing entitled, ‘‘Increasing Access to Capital for Our 

Nation’s Small Businesses.’’ The purpose of the hearing was to examine the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in securing affordable 

financing. The Committee received testimony from the Deputy Associate Administrator for Capital Access at the Small Business Administration, who provided testimony on the current state of the 

SBA’s 7(a) and Certified Development Company loan programs. 

The committee also received testimony from the Independent Community Bankers of America, the National Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders, the National Small Business Association, and from a small business owner who discussed ongoing deficiencies in the 7(a) and Certified Development Company loan programs. 

OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION’S INVESTMENT

PROGRAMS

On June 21, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held an 

oversight hearing entitled, ‘‘Increasing Investment in Our Nation’s 

Small Businesses.’’ The purpose of the hearing was to examine the 

challenges that small business face in seeking capital investment 

in the private markets. The Committee received testimony from the 

Associate Administrator for Capital Access at the Small Business 

Administration. The Committee also received testimony from a 

Harvard scholar of investment banking and small business capital 

formation, the Angel Capital Association, and the National Association of Small Business Investment Companies. 


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OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION’S DISASTER

ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

On February 14, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled 

‘‘The Small Business Administration’s Response to the 2005 Gulf 

Coast Hurricanes.’’ That hearing explored deficiencies in the Small 

Business Administration’s response to the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes and the concurrent Government Accountability Office report 

that examined the root causes of those problems. The Committee 

received testimony from the Administrator of the Small Business 

Administration, the Honorable Steven C. Preston. The Committee 

also received testimony from the Honorable Charlie Melancon (LA– 

3) the Honorable Richard Baker (LA–6) who testified on the ongoing deficiencies in the SBA’s response to small businesses and 

homeowners affected by the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes. The Committee also received testimony from William Shear, the Director of 

Financial Markets and Community Investment at the Government 

Accountability Office, who presented the results of a concurrently 

released GAO report entitled ‘‘Response to the Gulf Coast Hurricanes Highlights Need for Enhanced Disaster Preparedness,’’ which 

recommended that SBA take several steps to improve its disaster 

preparedness. The Committee also received testimony from the 

Secretary of Economic Development for the state of Louisiana, the 

Director for the Governor’s Office of Recovery and Renewal for the 

state of Mississippi, the American Bankers Association and two 

small business owners who encountered numerous problems in 

seeking SBA assistance following the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes. 

OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION’S CONTRACTING

PROGRAMS

On September 19, 2007 the Committee on Small Business held 

a hearing on the effectiveness of the SBA’s Contracting Programs 

and the challenges they face. The SBA indicated they supported 

the programs but acknowledged some difficulty in ensuring that 

the programs were delivered to appropriate parties, a problem that 

had been reported from a number of sources including the General 

Accountability Office and the SBA’s Inspector General. The SBA 

was unable to specify a date when the Women’s Procurement Program would finally be implemented nearly seven years after enactment. The non-government witnesses advocated for modernizing 

the 8(a) program, particularly the net worth limitation; urged the 

committee to take action to increase the participation in contract 

assistance programs by service-disabled, veteran owned firms; addressed the administration’s failure thus far to implement the 

Women’s Procurement program; pointed out the importance of specific procurement programs, and raised concern that government 

contracting is becoming burdensome and unwieldy. 

On January 16, 2008 the Committee on Small Business held a 

hearing to examine the SBA’s implementation of the Women’s Procurement Program. The SBA had issued a proposed regulation to 

administer the program and the Committee heard testimony on its 

adequacy and appropriateness given Congressional intent in creating the program. The first panel was comprised of the AdminisVerDate Nov 24 2008 02:51 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6601 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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trator of the SBA and an official from the Department of Justice. 

The second panel was comprised of women-owned small businesses, 

a legal scholar, and a law practitioner. 

IMMIGRATION POLICY

The full committee held a hearing on Thursday, May 10, 2007 at 

10:00 a.m., entitled: ‘‘Immigration Policies and there Impact on 

Small Business’’. This hearing consisted of two main panels: Panel 

1—The Honorable Luis V. Gutierrez, Member of Congress. Panel 

2—Mr. Benjamin E. Johnson, Director, American Immigration Law 

Foundation; Mr. Craig Silvertooth, Director of Federal Affairs, National Roofing Contractors Association; Ms. Maureen Torrey, 

Torrey Farms, Inc.; Mr. Ralph J. Folz, CEO, Molecular; Mr. Robert 

Rector, Ph.D., Senior Research Fellow, Heritage Foundation; and 

Mr. Mark S. Krikorian, Executive Director, Center for Immigration 

Studies. The committee heard testimony from industry experts on 

their immigration concerns and address issues including labor 

shortages, verification requirements, and the current visa system. 

Representatives from the agriculture, technology, and construction 

industries discussed the challenges facing their industries related 

to immigration. 

FAMILY FARMS AND RURAL SMALL BUSINESSES

On Thursday, June 7, 2007, at 10:00 a.m., the full committee 

hearing entitled: ‘‘Family Farmer and Rural Small Business Priorities for 2007 Farm Bill’’. Key agriculture groups testifying include: 

The Honorable Glenn English, CEO, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA); Tom Buis, President, National Farmers Union (NFU); Mike Noonan, President, Oregon Wheat Growers 

League, on behalf of National Association of Wheat Growers 

(NAWG); and Mark Schwiebert, Chairman, Public Policy Action 

Team, National Corn Growers Association (NCGA). The committee 

examined policies that assist small farmers and businesses with 

successfully competing in the domestic and global agricultural markets. Shaping agriculture policy determines the productivity of 

farmers, dictates the future of small businesses, and influence the 

outcome of the rural economy. 

On Thursday, May 1, 2008, at 10:00 a.m., the full committee held 

a hearing entitled: ‘‘Rail Transportation Access for Small Businesses and Family Farmers’’. The Committee heard from experts 

from the renewable fuels industry including Ms. Nelle P. Hotchkiss, SVP of Corporate Relations, North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation/National Rural Electric Cooperative Association; 

Mr. David Cleavinger, President, National Association of Wheat 

Growers; Dr. Kendell Keith, President, National Grain and Feed 

Association; and Mr. Dan Weber, Chairman, Agriculture Retailers 

Association. Small businesses and farmers in rural America depend 

on reliable transportation systems to move their goods and products to and from the marketplace. Of particular importance is their 

dependence upon rail transportation. Family farmers and small 

businesses have recently raised issues of affordability and access to 

rail shipping as a viable mode of transportation. The Committee 


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learned about the importance rail transportation, and how the 

issues will impact family farmers, and small businesses alike. 

Groups have complained about the lack of reliable rail service coupled with high rates they pay in many regions of the country. The 

Committee was able to listen to testimony from small businesses, 

farmers who ship grain, renewable fuels producers, in addition to 

rail related groups. On the advent of unprecedented crop production, and renewable production, rail is becoming an even more important transportation resource. 

GREEN BUILDING DEVELOPMENT

On Wednesday, July 11, 2007, at 10:00 a.m., the Committee held 

a two panel hearing entitled: ‘‘Small Businesses at the Forefront of 

the Green Revolution: What More Needs to Be Done to Keep Them 

Here?’’ The panelists included: Panel 1—The Honorable Marty 

Blum, Mayor, Santa Barbara, CA; and The Honorable Adrian 

Fenty, Mayor, Washington, DC. Panel 2—Julius Genachowski, Cofounder, New Resource Bank; Bob Jones, President, Robert R. 

Jones Homes, National Association of Home Builders (NAHB); 

Susan Maxman, Owner, Susan Maxman & Partners, Architects, 

American Institute of Architects (AIA); Mary Beth McGrew, Director, University Architect Campus Building Division University of 

Cincinnati; and Danny Seo, Environmental Lifestyle Expert, Author of Simply Green. The hearing examined how small firms are 

playing a vital role in developing materials, and building ‘‘green’’ 

facilities in an ever changing global setting. These facilities and initiatives are designed to improve energy efficiency and use environmentally friendly production processes during building construction. The panelists discussed how small ventures are more attuned 

to combating global climate change by leading the charge to become 

more energy efficient and environmentally sensitive. 

On Thursday, July 10, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. the Committee held 

a full committee hearing entitled: ‘‘The Role of Green Technologies 

in Spurring Economic Growth.’’ Small businesses play a vital role 

in producing green products and providing green services, moving 

our nation away from foreign sources of petroleum. As a result, of 

their work, today’s small firms have become more attuned to combating global climate change. As small businesses become more energy efficient and develop new technologies that are environmental 

friendly, they also are changing our workforce, by providing new 

‘‘green collar’’ jobs. As our world continues changing, it is the small 

businesses that are creative and innovative; resulting in new green 

jobs. It is the American small business that is creating new these 

new job opportunities that making positive contributions to our 

economy as we adjust to global change. The committee heard testimony from: Mr. Randy Rema, President, Reese Electric Inc., North 

Bend, OR, on Behalf of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA); Mr. Ellis Guiles, Director of Sales & Marketing, TAG 

Mechanical Systems, Inc., Syracuse, New York, on Behalf of the Air 

Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA); Mr. Gregory 

Wetstone, Senior Director of Government and Public Affairs, American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) in Washington, DC; Mr. 


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James Resor, Chief Financial Officer, groSolar in White River 

Junction, VT, on Behalf of the Solar Energy Industries Association 

(SEIA) ; Ms. Andrea Lucke, Vice President of Sales and Design, 

Robert Lucke Homes, Cincinnati, OH 45249, on Behalf of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB); Mr. Kevin Tindall, 

Owner, Tindall & Ranson Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, 

Inc., Princeton, NJ, on Behalf of National Association of PlumbingHeating-Cooling-Contractors (NAPHCC). 

ENERGY POLICY

On Thursday, May 3, 2007, at 10:00 a.m., the full committee held 

a hearing entitled: ‘‘The Impact of Renewable Energy Production in 

Rural America’’. The committee heard from experts from the renewable fuels industry such as: Mr. Bob Dineen, President and 

CEO, Renewable Fuels Association (RFA); Mr. Joe Jobe, Executive 

Director, National Biodiesel Board (NBB); Mr. John Urbanchuk, 

Economist, LECG; and Mr. Leon Graves, Member, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives. This hearing focused on the wide range 

of renewable fuels issues dealing with consumption and production. 

The hearing provided for a discussion about current biofuels programs and future plans for the industry. The committee listened to 

key representatives on the growth and expansion taking place in 

rural America. The committee also heard about growth opportunities for family farmers and small businesses through promising 

newer technologies for renewable fuels production. 

The Committee held a field hearing chaired by committee member Representative Shuler on August 31, 2007, in Johnson City, 

Tennessee. The hearing was entitled: ‘‘The Cost and Availability of 

Energy and the Effect on Small Business’’. The Committee discussed the importance of energy to small businesses as energy consumers, and talk about how increasing costs are cutting into profit 

margins. Panelists included distinguished guests such as: Dr. Kelly 

Tiller, Assistant Professor, Agricultural Policy Analysis Center, The 

University of Tennessee; Mr. Jim Keiffer, Senior Vice President of 

Marketing, Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA); Dr. Frances Lamberts, Community Activist; Mr. Larry Elkins, General Manager, 

Holston Electric Cooperative; Mr. Robert White, Chief Public Relations Officer, Johnson City Power Board; Mr. John Hutchinson, 

Vice President—Finance, Powell Construction; and Mr. Stanley 

Snowden, President, Seven Wheels Trucking, Inc. 

On October 17, 2007, the Committee convened a hearing entitled: 

‘‘Small Business Energy Bill Priorities’’. The Committee examined 

policies that assist small businesses enabling them to successfully 

compete in the domestic and global marketplace. Shaping energy 

policy determines the productivity dictates the future of small businesses, and influences the outcome of the economy. Panelists included: Mr. Frank Thompson, Owner, Sweetwater Builders, on behalf of the National Association of Home Builders; Mr. Mitchell 

Cropp, President, Cropp-Metcalfe Air Conditioning-Heating-Security, on behalf of the Air Conditioning Contractors of America and 

The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association; Mr. Miguel 


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A. Rodriguez, Principal, Rodriguez Architects, Inc., on behalf of the 

American Institute of Architects (AIA); and Mr. Lee Fuller, Vice 

President for Government Relations, Independent Petroleum Association of America. 

AIR TRANSPORTATION AND SMALL BUSINESS

On June 26, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 

‘‘Grounded: How the Air Transportation Crisis is Hurting Entrepreneurs and the Economy.’’ The Committee heard testimony from 

the travel industry, air carriers and business travelers. Witnesses 

discussed how fare increases and flight delays are impacting travelers, airlines and small firms in the travel and tourism industry. 

FOOD PRICES AND SMALL BUSINESS

On Thursday May 15, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. the House Small Business Committee held a full committee hearing entitled: ‘‘Food 

Prices and Small Businesses.’’ National economic concerns over inflation and food prices at the market are impacting small businesses and agriculture alike. Increasing food prices have led some 

countries to reduce exports and others to try to build up stocks. 

This had placed pressure points on the market by driving prices 

further upward. Food price increases have impacted all sectors of 

the economy but has done so in different ways. This hearing will 

be a forum to identify impacts while also providing an opportunity 

to discuss policy solutions. 

Those testifying at this hearing include Mr. Tom Buis, President, 

National Farmers Union; Mr. Geoff Tracy, with Chef Goeff ’s, on behalf of the National Restaurant Association; Mr. Bob Dinneen, 

President and CEO, Renewable Fuels Association; Mr. Daryl Thomas, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing on behalf of the 

Snack Food Association and the Grocery Manufacturers Association; and Mr. Frank D. Formica, on behalf of the American Bakers 

Association. 

THE STATE OF THE ECONOMY

On November 7, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled, 

‘‘The State of the Small Business Economy.’’ The Committee received testimony from Governor Frederick Mishkin of the Federal 

Reserve Board on the state of the small business economy as a 

leading indicator of economic conditions in the U.S. The report coincided with the release of the 2007 Report to Congress on the 

Availability of Credit to Small Businesses, a report that was mandated by the Economic Growth and Regulatory Paperwork Reduction Act of 1996. 

On April 24, 2008, the House Committee on Small Business held 

a hearing entitled ‘‘The Role of Small Business in Stimulating the 

Economy.’’ The hearing examined the current state of the U.S. 

economy and the role that small businesses will play in spurring 

new growth and recovery. In addition, the Committee will hear testimony regarding trends in entrepreneurship, as well as obstacles 

facing startups during this challenging economic climate. The hearVerDate Nov 24 2008 02:51 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6601 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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ing will consist of one panel, which will include representatives 

from a range of industry sectors. 

On October 28, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled, 

‘‘Creating Opportunities for Small Businesses in an Economic Recovery.’’ This hearing focused on the impact of the financial crisis 

and economic downturn on small firms, including barriers they are 

facing in securing capital and credit. The Committee received testimony from the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce, the American 

Bankers Association, the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, 

and the manufacturing sectors regarding challenges related to the 

financial and economic crisis. 

On November 20, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled, 

‘‘Review of Recent Federal Efforts to Improve Credit Conditions for 

Small Businesses.’’ The hearing examined the government’s response to the financial markets crisis and the slowing economy. 

The Committee reviewed the establishment of the Troubled Asset 

Relief Program (TARP) at the U.S. Department of Treasury and 

the creation of several lending facilities at the Federal Reserve. 

The Federal Reserve Board of Governors and the U.S. Department 

of Treasury testified at the hearing. 

ACCESS TO CAPITAL

The House Committee on Small Business held a field hearing to 

examine the effects of New Market Tax Credits, the SBIC and 504 

programs, and their role in revitalizing urban communities. The 

hearing took place on Wednesday, April 11, 2007 at 10:00 a.m., at 

the Avondale Pride Center: 3520 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 

45229. This hearing focused on the New Markets Tax Credit program and how it can be improved to meet the needs of local communities. The hearing examined the program’s performance to 

date, a report on the program by the GAO, as well as testimony 

from private investors and community development enterprise 

(CDE). The panel of witnesses included program stakeholders testified on the program’s structure, the benefits to the local community, and recommendations for its improvement. 

On April 3, 2008, the Committee held a hearing to explore the 

role that credit cards play in providing small businesses with access to capital. Specifically, the Committee explored trends surrounding recent growth in credit card lending to small businesses 

and examined the specific advantages and disadvantages that credit cards provide to entrepreneurs, particularly against the backdrop 

of prevailing economic conditions and the state of small business 

lending. The Committee received testimony from a small entrepreneur that had benefited significantly from credit card use, an 

individual testifying on behalf of the Independent Community 

Bankers of America, an individual testifying on behalf of the National Association of Federal Credit Unions, and two professional 

scholars who have performed significant research on the issue of 

small business credit card usage. 


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SARBANES-OXLEY AND SMALL COMPANIES

On June 5, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business convened a hearing entitled ‘‘Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404: Will the 

SEC and PCAOB’s New Standards Lower Compliance Costs for 

Small Companies?’’ The Committee heard testimony from The Honorable Christopher Cox, Chairman, United States Securities and 

Exchange Commission, Chairman Mark W. Olson, Chairman, Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, The Honorable James C. 

Greenwood, President and CEO, Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), Ms. Diane Casey-Landry, President and CEO, America’s 

Community Bankers, Mr. Hal S. Scott, Professor, Harvard University, Mark G. Heesen, President, National Venture Capital Association, Mr. David Hirschmann, Senior Vice President, U.S. Chamber 

of Commerce, and Mr. Richard G. Schmalzl, Partner, Graydon, 

Head and Ritchey LLC. The hearing examined the new regulations 

issued by the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the 

Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) in light of 

the committee’s ongoing concern that Section 404 of the SarbanesOxley Act of 2002 (SOX 404) places an undue regulatory burden on 

small firms. 

On December 12, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business 

convened a hearing entitled ‘‘Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404: New Evidence on the Costs for Small Businesses’’. The Committee heard 

testimony from The Honorable Christopher Cox, Chairman United 

States Securities and Exchange Commission, Michael J. Ryan, Executive Director and Senior Vice President, Center for Capital Markets Competitiveness, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Harvey 

Grossblatt, CEO and President, Universal Security Instruments, 

Bill Loving, CEO, Pendleton Community Bank, Thomas Brandt, 

CFO, TeleCommunication Systems and Shannon Greene, CFO, 

Tandy Leather Factory. The hearing examined recently released 

data on SOX 404 compliance costs being incurred by small companies and assesses the appropriateness of the SEC’s compliance 

timeline for small businesses. 

LIABILITY REFORM AND SMALL BUSINESS

On May 17, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Liability Reform and Small Business.’’ The Committee heard testimony 

from advocacy groups and trade associations on issues pertaining 

to small businesses and civil litigation, including related legislative 

proposals. Witnesses included the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Institute for Legal Reform, National Lumber and Building Material 

Dealers Association, The Association for Manufacturing Technology, the National Federation of Independent Businesses. 

SMALL BUSINESS COMPETITION POLICY: ARE MARKETS OPEN FOR

ENTREPRENEURS?

On September 25, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 

‘‘Small Business Competition Policy: Are Markets Open for Entrepreneurs?’’ The Committee heard testimony from the Chairman of 

the Federal Trade Commission, William E. Kovacic. Organizations 

representing physicians, medical device manufacturers and indeVerDate Nov 24 2008 02:51 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6602 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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pendent automobile repair stations delivered testimony. Witnesses 

discussed current competition issues facing entrepreneurs and 

whether federal antitrust regulators are doing enough to maintain 

competition in the marketplace. 

MEDICAID DRUG REIMBURSEMENT

On July 18, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Medicaid Drug Reimbursements: Are Cuts Bad Medicine for Small 

Businesses and Beneficiaries?’’ The Committee met to discuss the 

final rule promulgated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid 

Services which sets the average manufacturer price as the basis for 

certain prescription drug reimbursements to pharmacies (71 Fed. 

Reg. 77174). The hearing examined the impacts of the rule on 

small business retail pharmacies and Medicaid beneficiaries and 

whether the new reimbursement formula accurately reflected drug 

acquisition costs. The Director of the Center for Medicaid and State 

Operations, Dennis Smith, delivered testimony. Representatives 

from independent community pharmacies, chain drug stores and 

supermarkets testified as to how the rule impacts their businesses 

and affects their ability to continue participating in Medicaid. The 

Committee examined whether the agency adequately complied with 

the requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act in promulgating 

the rule. 

REGULATORY BURDEN

On November 15, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled 

Reducing the Regulatory Burden on Small Business: Improving the 

Regulatory Flexibility Act. The Committee heard testimony from 

small business representatives of the transportation, health care 

and other industries as well as from an administrative law expert. 

Witnesses discussed the federal regulatory burden on small businesses and how Congress can act to reduce it. Witnesses delivered 

testimony regarding the regulatory burdens imposed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the National Highway 

Traffic Safety Administration, the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Aviation Administration. The Committee examined ways to improve the Regulatory Flexibility Act. 

On February 28, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 

‘‘Improving the Paperwork Reduction Act for Small Businesses.’’ 

The Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs of the Office of Management and Budget, Susan E. Dudley, 

delivered testimony. Representatives of small firms testified as well 

as an administrative law expert. Witnesses discussed the federal 

paperwork burden on small firms. The hearing examined the growing federal paperwork burdens on small businesses and how Congress can act to reduce it by improving the Paperwork Reduction 

Act. 

PUBLIC LANDS AND SMALL BUSINESSES

On April 17, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Maintaining Public Lands for Hunting, Fishing, Ranching and Small 

Businesses.’’ The Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals ManVerDate Nov 24 2008 02:51 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6602 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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agement at the Department of the Interior, C. Stephen Allred, delivered testimony. The Committee heard testimony from hunting 

and fishing guides, a cattle rancher and a business providing services to energy firms. Witnesses discussed how the Interior Department is meeting the needs of small businesses dependent on the 

use of public lands for hunting, fishing, grazing and outdoor recreation. 

RESPA AND SMALL BUSINESS

On May 22, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘RESPA 

and its Impact on Small Business.’’ The Director of the Office of 

RESPA and Interstate Land Sales at the Department of Housing 

and Urban Development, Ivy Jackson, delivered testimony. Representatives of the real estate industry testified as well as a consumer advocate. Witnesses discussed the burdens associated with 

the proposed rule issued by HUD pursuant to the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act. The Committee examined how the new paperwork required by the rule would impact consumers and the real 

estate industry. 

TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

On March 7, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business convened a hearing entitled ‘‘Advancing the Innovation Agenda: The 

Perspective of the Technology and Telecommunications Industry.’’ 

The Committee heard testimony from Mr. William J. Archey, President and CEO, AeA, Mr. Philip J. Bond, President and CEO, Information Technology Association of America (ITAA), Mr. Grant 

Seiffert, President, Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), 

Mr. David Zesiger, Senior Vice President, Regulatory Policy and 

External Affairs, Embarq, Mr. Walter B. McCormick, Jr., President 

and CEO, United States Telecommunications Association 

(USTelecom), Ms. Shirley Bloomfield, Vice President, Government 

Affairs and Association Services for the National Telecommunications Cooperative Association (NTCA), Mr. Richard Cimerman, 

Vice President, State Telecommunications Policy, National Cable 

and Telecommunications Association (NCTA), and Mr. Earl Comstock, President and CEO, COMPTEL. The hearing examined the 

technology and telecommunication industries’ policy priorities for 

the 110th Congress and considered how the industries’ policy priorities might impact small innovative companies. 

On March 29, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business 

convened a hearing entitled ‘‘The Impact of Proposed Patent Reform Legislation on Small Businesses.’’ The Committee heard testimony from Commissioner John J. Doll, Commissioner for Patents, 

United States Patent and Trademark Office, Mr. Mitchell Gross, 

Chairman and CEO, Mobius Management Systems, Mr. Bryan 

Lord, Vice President and General Counsel, AmberWave Systems 

Corporation, Ms. Emily Ward, Associate General Counsel for Patents, eBay, Inc, Mr. John Neis, Managing Director of Venture Investors LLC, Mr. John R. Thomas, Professor, Georgetown University, and Mr. Kevin Kirsch, Partner, Taft, Stettinius & Hollister 


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LLP. The hearing examined the cost and benefits of reforming the 

U.S. patent system and the potential impact on small businesses. 

On June 28, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business convened a hearing entitled the ‘‘Assessing the Impact of the Copyright Royalty Board Decision to Increase Royalty Rates on Recording Artists and Webcasters.’’ The Committee heard testimony from 

Mr. Bryan Miller, General Manager for WOXY.com, Mr. Tom Sullivan, Founder, Tommy Boy Records, Joey Allcorn, Recording Artist, Ms. Cathy Fink, Recording Artist, Mr. Kieran Kelly, Co-Owner, 

Stunning Models on Display Records, Mr. Thomas Lee, President, 

American Federation of Musicians, Mr. Richard Eiswerth, President, General Manager and CEO, Cincinnati Public Radio, Inc., 

and the Honorable Jay Inslee, Member of Congress. The hearing 

examined a recent decision by the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) 

that increased substantially the royalty rates that Internet broadcasters or ‘‘webcasters’’ pay to compensate copyright owners for digital transmissions of their sound recordings. 

On October 10, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business 

convened a hearing entitled ‘‘The Impact of the 700 Megahertz 

Wireless Spectrum Auction on Small Business.’’ The Committee 

heard testimony from The Honorable Kevin J. Martin, Chairman, 

Federal Communications Commission, Mr. E. Kelly Bond, CEO and 

President, Public Service Communications, Ms. Shelley Spenser, 

President, Wirefree Partners, Mr. Chris Guttman-McCabe, Vice 

President, Regulatory Affairs, CTIA, Mr. Christopher Libertelli, 

Senior Director, Government and Regulatory Affairs, Skype, and 

Mr. Jeffery Black, Founder, Chairman and Chief Strategy Officer, 

TalkPlus. The hearing examined the potential impact of the upcoming wireless spectrum auction’s rules on entrepreneurs, small wireless communications providers and small businesses that are without access to reliable and affordable access to broadband services. 

HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

On March 14, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held a 

hearing entitled ‘‘Challenges and Solutions to Health Insurance 

Coverage for Small Businesses.’’ The hearing focused on barriers to 

coverage for small businesses ranging from their tax treatment 

under the Code to the structure of the health insurance market. 

Witnesses Karen Ignagni, President and CEO of America’s Health 

Insurance Plans (AHIP), Todd Stottlemyer, President and CEO of 

the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Adam D. 

Cockey, Jr., Senior Vice President of Prudential Carruthers Realtors and Immediate Past Chair of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Business Issues Committee, and Gail Wilensky, a Leading Economist and former Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), testified about the barriers faced 

by small firms and possible solutions to bring down costs and increase coverage. 

On May 24, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held a hearing entitled ‘‘Expanding Small Business Health Insurance CovVerDate Nov 24 2008 02:51 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6602 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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erage Using the Private Reinsurance Market.’’ The hearing focused 

on how reinsurance has been used by businesses to manage their 

risk of financial loss. Witnesses testified on alternative reinsurance 

arrangements that have been used by employers to control high 

risk and catastrophic health care costs associated with medical 

benefit plans. Testimony was also provided describing the current 

landscape of the reinsurance market and barriers to the adoption 

of reinsurance by small business in the health care arena. Witnesses included Len Crouse, Vermont Deputy Commissioner, Captive Division, Patrick L. Collins, Chairperson of the American 

Academy of Actuaries’ Medical Reinsurance Work Group, as well as 

Vice Chairperson of the Academy’s Federal Health Committee 

(AAA), Janet Trautwein, Executive Vice President & CEO, National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU), and Leonard C. 

Brevik, Executive Vice President and CEO of the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA). 

On October 25, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled 

‘‘Health Insurer Consolidation—The Impact on Small Business.’’ 

The hearing examined the effects of consolidation on the cost of 

health insurance and the impact on physicians and other health 

care providers in terms of reimbursements and administrative burdens. Representatives of small businesses, physicians and consumers testified as to the impacts of increased consolidation of 

health insurers on competition in health care. 

On January 23, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held a 

hearing entitled ‘‘Limited Options for Small Businesses in the 

Small Group Market.’’ The hearing examined the challenges small 

businesses face providing health insurance coverage to their workers. Witnesses discussed their experiences purchasing health insurance in the small group market citing challenges specific to their 

industry, region of the country, and business size. Witnesses also 

offered their opinions about possible solutions to the problems 

small businesses face in the marketplace. Testimony was provided 

by Don Teske on behalf of the National Farmers Union, Scott 

Eckstein on behalf of the National Association of Home Builders, 

Cathey Sandman on behalf of the National Federation of Independent Business, Richard S. Lee on behalf of the Society of American Florists, Lee David Groza on behalf American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and R. Stephen Eby, M.D., on behalf of 

the American Academy of Family Physicians. 

On February 26, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held a 

hearing entitled ‘‘State Strategies to Expand Health Insurance 

Coverage for Small Businesses’’—Featuring Testimony on Health 

Care Reform in Minnesota and Pennsylvania from Governors 

Pawlenty and Rendell. The hearing examined the question of State 

health reform and how it may impact the small business community. The principle focus of the hearing was to assess whether State 

reform efforts will prove successful, and how the Federal government can best assist States in their efforts to promote coverage. 


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On September 18, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held 

a hearing entitled: ‘‘Making Health Care Reform Work for Small 

Business.’’ Testimony was heard from a wide range of witnesses. 

COMPETITIVE BIDDING FOR CLINICAL LAB SERVICES

On July 25, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held a hearing entitled ‘‘Competitive Bidding for Clinical Lab Services: 

Where’s It Heading and What Small Businesses Can Expect?’’ The 

hearing examined a competitive bidding demonstration program 

developed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to reimburse clinical lab providers for Medicare services. Testimony focused on how the program would impact small labs and their ability to operate and continue offering services. Witnesses included 

Timothy P. Love, Director for the Office of Research, Development 

and Information, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; Dr. 

Ronald Weiss, M.D., President and C.O.O., ARUP Laboratories, 

and American Clinical Laboratory Association Board Chairman; 

Tod Schild, Senior Vice President, Shiel Medical Laboratories; 

Thomas S. Bejgrowicz, M.S., L.N.H.A., Client Account Manager, 

Aculabs; and Mary Jo Bonifas, Manager of Laboratory Services and 

United Clinical Laboratories. 

MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE CUTS AND SMALL BUSINESS

On Thursday, May 8, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Medicare Physician Fee Cuts: Can Small Practices Survive.’’ 

The hearing examined the business challenges faced by small medical practices and the impact Medicare physician fee cuts would 

have on the operation of health care practices. Testimony was provided by Herb Kuhn, Deputy Administrator, Centers for Medicare 

and Medicaid Services; Dr. David C. Dale, MD, FACP on behalf of 

the American College of Physicians (ACP); Dr. Cecil Wilson, MD on 

behalf of the American Medical Association (AMA); Mona Reimers 

on behalf of the Medical Group Management Association; Tom 

DiAngelis, PT, on behalf of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA); and Dr. Charles Mabry, MD, FACS on behalf of the 

American College of Surgeons. 

ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORDS IN SMALL SPECIALTY PRACTICES

On Thursday, July 31, 2008, the Committee on Small Business 

held a hearing entitled: ‘‘Cost and Confidentiality: The Unforeseen 

Challenges of Electronic Health Records in Small Specialty Practices.’’ In spite of findings about the many benefits of HIT, its dissemination has been slow, due in part to the high costs of Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems for smaller health care practices. Small health care practices have been reluctant to install systems because of concerns over the upfront capital investment, ongoing maintenance and short-term productivity loss. Costs concerns 

have led to public and private efforts that aim to increase the pace 

of HIT adoption. But cost alone is not the only concern before members of the medical profession. The adoption of EHR is particularly 

troublesome for specialty practices. One issue that is unique to certain specialty practices is patient confidentiality. Despite best efforts, how and in what manner the records of children, abused 


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women, and those suffering from mental illness will be protected 

remains a concern. Certain small health care practices protect extremely intimate patient information, so there is increased concern 

about confidentially, which can also increase exposure to liability 

over improper disclosure. The hearing focused on the broad discussion about cost and privacy and how both have influenced the 

adoption of EHR by solo and small group specialty practices. Testimony was provided by Philip W. Tally, MD, on behalf of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons; Robert Plovnick, MD, 

MS, on behalf of the American Psychiatric Association; Edward 

Gotlieb, MD, FAAP, on behalf of the American Academy of Pediatrics; Ralph Hale, MD, FACOG, on behalf of American College of 

Obstetricians and Gynecologists; and Thaddeus Bort, MD, on behalf of the American Academy of Family Physicians. 

KATRINA CONTRACTING

On April 12, 2007, the Committee held a field hearing in New 

Orleans, Louisiana, entitled ‘‘Participation of Small Businesses in 

Hurricane Katrina Recovery.’’ The hearing largely emphasized the 

shortcomings of the major agencies involved in awarding Gulf 

Coast recovery contracts with regard to their local and small business usage. The Committee heard testimony from the Honorable 

Lurita Doan, Administrator, General Services Administration; Mr. 

Paul Schneider, Under Secretary for Management, Department of 

Homeland Security; Dr. James Finley, Deputy Under Secretary of 

Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, Department of 

Defense; Lt. Gen. Carl Strock, Chief of Engineers, U.S. Army Corps 

of Engineers; Admiral Patrick Dunne, Assistant Secretary for Policy, Planning, and Preparedness, Department of Veterans Affairs; 

and Mr. Steven Preston, Administrator, Small Business Administration. 

On August 2, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Disaster Planning and Recovery: Are We Ready for Another Katrina?’’ 

This hearing was intended as a follow-up to two hearings—the February disaster loan hearing, and the April field hearing on Katrina 

contracting. The Committee requested and reviewed data from the 

agencies that previously testified, to monitor their progress. It 

found that progress had not been made with regard to local and 

small business contracting. The Committee will continue to monitor 

this situation. The Committee heard testimony from Ms. Lurita 

Doan, Administrator, General Services Administration; Mr. Paul 

Schneider, Under Secretary for Management, Department of Homeland Security; Dr. James Finley, Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, Department of Defense; Lt. Gen. Robert Van Antwerp, Chief of Engineers, U.S. Army 

Corps of Engineers; Mr. Robert Henke, Assistant Secretary for 

Management, Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Steven 

Preston, Administrator, Small Business Administration. 

EMERGING PROCUREMENT METHODS

On March 6, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Are 

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tors?’’ As a result of the decreasing acquisition workforce, agencies 

are turning to more automated methods of awarding government 

contracts such as schedule contracting and reverse auctions. The 

Committee examined the effect of these methods on small business 

contractors and determined that these methods are not clearly producing greater value or increased efficiency. The Committee heard 

testimony from Mr. Paul Dennett, Administrator, Office of Federal 

Procurement Policy; Mr. Jim Williams, Commissioner, Federal Acquisition Service, General Services Administration; Major General 

Ron Johnson, Deputy Commanding General, U.S. Army Corps of 

Engineers; Mr. John Palatiello, Administrator, Council on Federal 

Procurement of Architectural and Engineering Services; Mr. Anthony Zelenka, President, Bertucci Contracting Corporation; Mr. 

Mark Leazer, Forms & Supply, Inc.; Mr. Arthur Salus, President, 

Duluth Travel; and Mr. John Spotila, CEO, R3i Solutions. 

GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICE (GAO) INVESTIGATION AND REPORT ON THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION’S HUBZONE PRO- GRAM

On July 17, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Small 

Business Administration’s Contracting Programs and Recent GAO 

Examination of Programs’’ to consider the GAO’s findings regarding the potential for fraud in the HUBZone program. Both GAO’s 

Financial Markets and Community Investment division as well as 

the Forensic Audits and Special Investigations group examined the 

program and concluded that SBA does not have sufficient controls 

for fraud prevention and detection. SBA pledged to improve the 

program in several ways. The Committee will monitor the agency’s 

progress in making improvements. Acting Administrator Ms. Jovita 

Carranza testified on behalf of SBA. GAO was represented by Mr. 

William Shear, Director, Financial Markets and Community Investment; and Mr. Gregory Kutz, Managing Director, Forensic Audits and Special Investigations. 

TRADE POLICY

On November 1, 2007, the House Small Business Committee held 

a hearing entitled ‘‘Evaluating the Impact of Pending Free Trade 

Agreements upon U.S. Small Businesses.’’ The hearing focused on 

the potential impacts of the treaties with countries in Latin America and Asia upon small U.S. businesses, including changes in domestic and market opportunities. The hearing also considered Federal resources, such as export promotion programs, which support 

small producers’ competitiveness in the global economy and ensure 

their access to newly opened markets. Testimony was provided by 

the Deputy U.S. Trade Representative regarding the Office of the 

USTR’s efforts to incorporate small business concerns into the negotiation and implementation of trade agreements. Business representatives of the service, manufacturing, agricultural and technology sectors testified as to the potential impacts of the agreements to small firms in these industries. 

On June 13, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held a hearing entitled: ‘‘U.S. Trade Policy and Small Business.’’ The hearing 


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focused on the impact of Federal trade policies and resources that 

effect small firms’ competitiveness in the globalized economy. Testimony was provided by administrators from the Office of the U.S. 

Trade Representative, the Department of Commerce’s International 

Trade Administration, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 

Foreign Agricultural Service Division regarding their efforts to promote international transactions by small businesses. Witnesses 

representing manufacturing, service and agricultural sectors highlighted foreign and domestic market access issues facing small 

firms as a result of trade liberalization. 

On June 19, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held a hearing entitled ‘‘Small Business Exports in the Current Economic Climate.’’ The purpose of the hearing was to examine trends in small 

businesses export activities during the country’s economic downturn. As overseas sales are particularly critical during an economic 

slowdown to offset reduced domestic consumption, the hearing examined problems small businesses are facing as they attempt to access foreign markets and contribute to the nation’s growth. The 

Committee received testimony from the small business owners in 

the manufacturing and resource-based industries. They highlighted 

the export regulations and shifting transportation patterns creating 

obstacles to foreign customers. A representative of the textile industry testified regarding trade and fiscal policies that create disadvantages for small U.S. exporters. A trade policy analyst and 

academic highlighted public policies that promote the competitiveness of small businesses in global markets, particularly during an 

economic downturn. 

SMALL BUSINESS POLICY AT THE U.S. EXPORT-IMPORT BANK

On January 17, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held a 

hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of the U.S. Export-Import Bank’s Implementation of its Small Business Mandate.’’ The purpose of the 

hearing was to examine the U.S. Export-Import Bank (Eximbank), 

which was created Congress in 1934 to help stimulate foreign trade 

and increase employment. Specifically, the hearing considered the 

status of Eximbank’s implementation of recent legislative initiatives to strengthen its small business programs. The Committee received testimony from the Chairman and President of the U.S. Export-Import Bank, James Lambright. His testimony highlighted the 

steps the Bank has taken to administer the small business provisions mandated in the agency’s recent reauthorization as well as 

overall lending activities to the sector at Eximbank. Representatives of small businesses in export-based industries testified on financing needs and presented recommendations for improved export 

assistance through the institution. 

TAX POLICY

On March 22, 2007, the Committee held a hearing on the 3 percent government withholding requirement. In an effort to close the 

tax gap, Sec. 511 of the 2005 TIPRA requires the government to 

withhold 3 percent on nearly all of its payments for goods or services. However, for many small businesses that operate on small 


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profit margins and need cash to conduct their operations, the 3 percent withholding requirement would literally put many small businesses that operate exclusively on government contracts out of 

business. Witnesses included Vincent Iannelli of Iannelli Construction on behalf of the Associated General Contractors, Daryl Deel of 

NEI Transport Inc. on behalf of the American Trucking Associations and Lamar Whitman, Public Policy Manager for the Computing Technology Industry Association. The witnesses testified 

how harmful this provision would be for their business in that the 

withheld money could mean difference between meeting payroll, expanding a company or buying needed equipment while reducing 

their ability to compete against their corporate counterparts. All interested parties were of the mindset that the 3 percent withholding 

requirements needs to be repealed in full. 

On April 26, 2007, the Committee held a hearing on the tax gap. 

The tax gap is the difference between the amount of taxes paid voluntarily and timely for a given year and the amount of taxes due. 

The IRS pointed to small businesses and self-employed individuals 

as being major contributors to the tax gap and the hearing addressed ways in which efforts to close the tax gap would impact 

small businesses. Witnesses included the Honorable Mark W. 

Everson, Commissioner of Internal Revenue, Keith Hall, National 

Tax Advisor for the National Association for the Self-Employed, 

Paul Hense, CPA on behalf of the National Small Business Association, James E. Brennan, CPA American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Donald C. Alexander, Former IRS Commissioner 

Partner, and Mr. Joe Samuel Senior Vice President, Public Policy 

First Data Corporation. The witnesses testified how some of the 

proposals by the IRS would unduly harm small businesses and that 

much of the tax gap could be closed by simplifying the tax code and 

making it compliance easier. 

On October 3, 2007, the Committee held a hearing on the Internet Tax Moratorium, which currently bans taxes on internet access, 

and prevented taxes on Internet transactions and was set to expire 

on November 1, 2007. The hearing focused on the effect that policy 

has had on the ability of small businesses to successfully compete 

in the new digital economy. Witnesses included Brian Bieron the 

Senior Director, Federal Government Relations for eBay Inc., Brett 

Dewey, CEO of WickedCoolStuff.com, David P. McClure President 

& CEO of the U.S. Internet Industry Association, Ross J. 

Lieberman Vice President of Government Affairs for the American 

Cable Association and Raymond Keating Chief Economist for the 

Small Business Economic Council. The witness testimony focused 

on how a tax free Internet has proved to be the great leveling field 

in American business today, permitting small businesses with less 

access to capital to compete with much larger businesses. As such, 

all witnesses were in agreement that a permanent extension of the 

moratorium was needed so as to continue to foster small business 

development in the digital economy. 


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On February 14, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on Business Activity Taxes (BATs) and their impact on small businesses. 

BATs are taxes imposed by states on out of state businesses in the 

form of income taxes, royalty fees, or licensing fees for conducting 

business within a particular state’s borders. The hearing highlighted the many problems small businesses face when attempting 

to conduct interstate sales. Witnesses from the technology, manufacturing, and restaurant industries explained that because states 

have imposed these taxes, they have faced increased tax liabilities, 

increased litigation costs, and increased administrative costs due to 

the complex tax provisions of the various states. The witnesses 

stressed to the Committee that federal legislation is required to set 

a bright-line standard so that small businesses know that when 

they conduct business in a particular state, they could potentially 

be subject to its taxing regime. As a follow up to the hearing, the 

Committee sent a comment letter to the Judiciary Committee 

which detailed the substance of the hearing. The letter, signed by 

Chairwoman Vela ́zquez and Ranking member Chabot, indicated 

the concerns regarding BATs from the small business perspective 

while also stating that the Committee is willing to work with Judiciary on a matter of great importance to the small business community. 

On April 10, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on how certain 

updates could be made to the Internal Revenue Code that could 

help small businesses stimulate the economy. Although there is a 

real need for reform to make our economy more competitive in an 

increasingly globally competitive world, the Committee believes 

that there is an immediate need for a more limited modernization 

of some of the most antiquated provisions of our current business 

tax system that better reflect the economy that we are operating 

in today. As such, the Committee held this hearing and heard testimony from small businesses operating in the technology, manufacturing, and food and service industries. The witnesses explained to 

the Committee that in many respects, the tax code has not adequately responded to the economy that exists in the 21st century, 

and this hinders their ability to grow and expand their business. 

Along with the hearing, the Committee released a report, which detailed 7 ways the Internal Revenue Code should be immediately 

updated. Finally, the Committee introduced legislation, H.R. 6601, 

which will attempt to incorporate those recommendations into law. 

On June 5, 2008 the Committee held a hearing focused on the 

housing crisis and the ripple effect it has had on small businesses 

and our nation’s economy. By some estimates, the housing industry 

comprises nearly 10 percent of our nation’s Gross Domestic Product 

making it a critical component of our nation’s economic well being. 

However, increased foreclosures, declining home values, and slumping sales of new homes have affected consumer confidence and 

spending as many Americans and small businesses have witnessed 

their most significant asset rapidly depreciate. Further, small businesses such as home builders, contractors, engineers, architects, 

and those in the financial service industry permeate the housing 


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industry and rely on it for survival. The hearing gave members of 

the Committee the opportunity to analyze potential tax relief, including a first-time home buyer’s credit, and other tax preferences 

which could provide relief to the industry. The Committee heard 

from those small businesses directly affected by the housing downturn, such as the National Association of Home Builders, the National Association of Realtors, and the Independent Community 

Bankers, who testified that a housing stimulus package must be 

passed to aid this struggling industry. 

On June 12, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Electronic Payments Tax Reporting—Another Tax Burden for Small 

Businesses.’’ The hearing examined recent efforts to require information tax reporting on all credit card receipts of small businesses. 

Specifically, this hearing focused on the potential administrative 

and financial burdens that new reporting requirements could create for small businesses and financial institutions. The Committee 

received testimony from a leading electronic payment processing 

company, a Midwest-based financial institution, the National Small 

Business Association, and the National Association of the Self-Employed. 

On July 24, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on the stimulus 

package enacted in February of 2008 and its impact on small businesses and the economy in general. The hearing also examined the 

current state of the economy, and whether another round of stimulus is needed, what form that should take, and small business’ 

role in getting our nation back on track. The Committee heard testimony from a wide spectrum of industries, including the American 

Banking Association, the National Retail Federation, and the 

American Council of Engineering Companies. Each group spoke 

about specific policies, such as banking reform, rebate checks, and 

infrastructure spending, and how those proposals could benefit 

both small businesses and our national economy. The Committee 

also heard testimony from Mark Zandi, an economist, and founder 

of MoodysEconomy.com. Mr. Zandi emphasized the need for another round of stimulus targeted in the $50–100 billion range as 

a way to boost the sagging economy due to waning affects of the 

last stimulus package. 

On September 11, 2008, the Committee held a hearing to examine expiring tax incentives and the needs of small businesses. The 

Committee heard testimony from the National Biodiesel Board, The 

National Restaurant Association, the International Council of 

Shopping Centers, and the Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International. 

SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATION RESEARCH (SBIR) PROGRAM

On January 29, 2008, the House Committee on Small Business 

convened a hearing entitled ‘‘SBIR: America’s Technology Development Incubator’’. The Committee heard testimony from Douglas 

Doerfler, President & CEO, MaxCyte, Inc, Michael Borrus, General 

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tional Defense Industrial Association, Robert J. Beall, President 

and CEO, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and William Bean, Director, 

Technology and Business Center, College of William and Mary. The 

hearing examined the importance of the SBIR program to American competitiveness as well as changes to it that may strengthen 

the initiative. 

On March 13, 2008 the House Small Business Committee convened a legislative hearing to review a Committee Print of draft 

legislation reauthorizing and modernizing the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The Committee heard testimony 

from the Honorable Steven Preston, Administrator, United States 

Small Business Administration, the Honorable James C. Greenwood, President and CEO, Biotechnology Industry Organization 

(BIO), Mark G. Heesen, President, National Venture Capital Association, Mark Leahey, Executive Director, Medical Device Manufactures Association, Mark Skinner, Vice President, State Science and 

Technology Institute and Charles Matthews Professor of Management, University of Cincinnati. 

IMPACT OF GEORGIA DROUGHT ON SMALL BUSINESSES

On March 25, 2008 at 10:00 a.m., the Small Business Committee 

held a field hearing in LaGrange, GA examining the impact of local 

droughts on small businesses. The Committee heard testimony 

from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other affected parties 

on the impact of recent droughts on Georgia. The hearing examined 

the challenges the drought presented for individuals and businesses in the landscaping, tourism and other industries. 

SMALL BUSINESS ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS

On December 8, 2008, the Small Business Committee held a field 

hearing in Asheville, NC. The hearing examined the effect of industrial contamination on small businesses and their surrounding 

communities, as well as potential solutions. The Committee heard 

from small business owners and stakeholders on their concerns 

about the issue. 

WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP

On July 23, 2007, the Small Business Committee held a field 

hearing in Philadelphia, PA. This hearing examined the contributions of women entrepreneurs to Pennsylvania’s economy and the 

challenges that they face. The panel was comprised of small business owners, lenders, and entrepreneurial assistance groups, as 

well as an SBA representative. The witnesses discussed their successes and the obstacles they have overcome to get their businesses 

off the ground. The women entrepreneurs on the panel further discussed the policies that have assisted them or that could help them 

expand in the future. The other representatives on the panel discussed the financial and technical assistance programs that are 

available to the women entrepreneur community. 


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SUBCOMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND TAX

OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES

DATA SECURITY AND SMALL BUSINESS

On June 6, 2007, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held a 

hearing entitled ‘‘Data Security: Small Business Perspectives.’’ The 

subcommittee discussed how the issue of data security is impacting 

small businesses. In addition, the subcommittee examined the efforts of small businesses to secure data from increasingly sophisticated threats. The hearing assessed proposals for a federal data security law and how they can be crafted to account for the unique 

needs of small businesses. Witnesses from the retail, credit card 

and information technology industries testified. 

PENSION PARITY BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BUSINESSES

On October 24, 2007, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held 

a hearing regarding the barriers small businesses face in offering 

pension benefits to their employees as compared to larger entities. 

The witnesses included Catherine Collinson, of Transamerica Retirement Services, Jim McCarthy, Managing Director of Morgan 

Stanley, Sal Tripodi, a retirement benefits specialist on behalf of 

the American Society of Pension Professionals and Actuaries and 

Paula Calimafde, the Chair of the Small Business Council of America. The hearing revealed that many small firms cannot afford to 

provide retirement benefits or lack the in-house expertise necessary 

to comply with complicated Employee Retirement Income Security 

Act (ERISA) guidelines. As a result, only 15 percent of micro businesses offer pensions to their employees. Witnesses discussed how 

changes in the tax code and modifications to existing retirement vehicles would encourage employees to save more for retirement 

while alleviating some of the burden on business owners. 

OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION’S ACCESS TO

CAPITAL PROGRAMS

On March 5, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held 

a hearing regarding the SBA’s access to capital programs. This included testimony from the Eric Zarnikow, the Associate Administrator for Capital Access at SBA, the National Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders, the National Association of Development Companies, the National Association of Small Business Investment Companies, and the Association of Enterprise Opportunity. The Subcommittee heard about the challenges SBA program participants face in making capital more available for small 

firms. 


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THE SMALL BUSINESS ECONOMY

On April 30, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held 

a hearing to examine the effect that prevailing economic conditions 

have had on small business access to capital. In particular, the 

Committee examined how small firms have been affected by a contraction in the national credit supply and explored how these conditions impacted national employment, gross domestic product, and 

trade. The subcommittee received testimony from the Independent 

Community Bankers of America, the Credit Union National Association, a small business owner testifying on behalf of the U.S. 

Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and a small business owner testifying on behalf of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce. 

S-CORPORATIONS

On June 18, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held 

a hearing to discuss the business classification known as the S corporation and what potential changes should be made to their operating rules. Over the past 50 years, S-corporations have become the 

favored entity classification for small businesses. However, many of 

the rules relating to the S-corporation regime date back nearly half 

a century. Additionally, in many ways, the tax code treats S corporations differently than other entity classifications, such as partnerships and C corporations, even though they may be similarly 

situated in terms of their business operations. Thus, the hearing 

gave Committee members the opportunity to examine which 

changes could be made to better help small businesses raise capital 

and improve impediments to growth. Members heard testimony 

from the banking industry along with those in the tax preparation 

community who explained the importance of S corporations to the 

family owned business and how the vitality of the S corporation 

contributes to small business growth, development, and expansion. 

On September 17, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax 

held a hearing on Disaster Savings Accounts and their protections 

for small businesses. Witnesses from the financial services, baking, 

and manufacturing sectors testified during the hearing. 


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SUBCOMMITTEE ON CONTRACTING AND TECHNOLOGY

OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT EFFORTS IN CONTRACTING WITH WOMENOWNED BUSINESSES

On March 21, 2007 the Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology held a hearing on the implementation of the Women’s Procurement Program and federal government efforts in contracting 

with women-owned businesses. The first panel of agency representatives reviewed the status of their respective agencies’ efforts to 

meet their goals with regard to contracting with women-owned 

businesses and individual successes within their programs. They 

went over their reports and data related to their accomplishments 

and their plans to support and include women-owned businesses in 

contract efforts in the future. SBA Deputy Administrator Carranza 

went through the current status of the implementation of the 

Women’s Procurement Program. The report of under-represented 

industries has been completed and regulations are being prepared. 

The second panel comprised of the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce as well as women entrepreneurs testified as to their challenges in accessing federal contracts. 

RENEWABLE ENERGY WORKFORCE NEEDS

On Wednesday, June 20, 2007, the Subcommittee on Contracting 

and Technology convened a hearing entitled: ‘‘Meeting the Workforce Demands of Small Bio-Energy Businesses’’. The Subcommittee heard from two sets of panelists, which included: Panel 

1—The Honorable Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA), Chairman, Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee. Panel 2—John 

Caupert, Director, National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center; Ron 

Litterer, First Vice President, National Corn Growers Association 

(NCGA); Bruce Rastetter, CEO, Hawkeye Renewables; Dr. Patricia 

Keir, Chancellor, Eastern Iowa Community College District Office; 

Dr. Kelly J. Tiller, PhD, Assistant Professor, Agricultural Policy 

Analysis Center, The University of Tennessee; and Dr. Colin R. 

South, President, Mascoma Corporation. The subcommittee explored the potential for sustaining the renewable fuels sector for 

small businesses in rural America. Members heard from expert witnesses on issues dealing with industry growth and expansion, as 

well as the need for future investment in human capital in the renewable fuels industry and possible solutions to worker shortages. 

SMALL BUSINESS ENERGY TAX POSSIBILITIES

On Wednesday, September 26, 2007 the Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology hearing entitled: ‘‘Small Business Renewable Energy Tax Incentive Possibilities’’. Considering energy tax 


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policies will enhance the small business role in new alternative 

sources of energy by moving our country away from foreign sources 

of petroleum. The Subcommittee listened to testimony from expert 

witnesses on how more renewable energy investment can occur if 

changes are made to the Internal Revenue Code (IRC). The panelists discussed the importance of energy tax policy as a driving force 

behind renewable energy production and development, a field in 

which small businesses have been leading the way. The subcommittee heard how small businesses are suffering from high energy prices. The subcommittee listened to testimony from Mr. 

Quentin T. Kelly, Chairman & CEO, WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp.; Mr. Craig Breitbach, Director, Western Dubuque 

Biodiesel; Mr. Ed Woolsey, President, Green Prairie Wind Development; Mr. Kim Zuhlke, Vice President—New Generation, Alliant 

Energy Corporation; and Mr. John Hutchinson, Vice President—Finance, Powell Construction. 

PLAIN LANGUAGE IN PAPERWORK—THE BENEFITS TO SMALL BUSINESS

On February 26, 2008, the Subcommittee on Contracting and 

Technology held a hearing entitled ‘‘Plain Language in Paperwork—The Benefits to Small Business.’’ The Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Honorable Christopher Cox 

delivered testimony. The Subcommittee heard testimony from organizations representing small businesses, retired persons and a 

plain language expert. Witnesses discussed the complexities of government forms, notices and instructions. The Subcommittee examined how the use of plain language by the federal government can 

reduce the paperwork burden on small businesses. 

THE DTV TRANSITION AND SMALL BUSINESS

On May 7, 2008, the House Committee on Small Business Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology convened a hearing entitled ‘‘The DTV Transition and Small Businesses: Small Firms Contributing to a Big Change.’’ The Committee heard testimony from 

Mr. Greg Hephner, President, Hephner TV and Electronics Inc., 

Mr. Ed Pardini, Senior Vice President of Operations, Mediacom 

Communications, Mr. Keith Oliver, Senior Vice President of Corporate Operations, Home Telephone Company, and Mr. Jack 

Dempsey, General Manager of WJHL-TV in Johnson City, Tennessee. The hearing examined the impact of the DTV transition on 

small broadcasters, small cable and video service providers and 

small electronics retailers. The Subcommittee also considered 

whether there are appropriate measures Congress should take in 

order to minimize the burden of the DTV transition on small firms, 

particularly those small firms serving rural areas. 

OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION’S CONTRACTING

PROGRAMS

On April 16, 2008, the Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology held a hearing centered around SBA contracting programs. 

The Subcommittee considered the management and effectiveness of 

the 8(a), service-disabled veterans, and HUBZone programs, as 

well as the agency’s proposal to implement the women’s procureVerDate Nov 24 2008 05:37 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00072 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6601 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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ment program. The Committee heard testimony from Ms. Fay Ott, 

Associate Administrator for the Office of Government Contracting 

and Business Development, Small Business Administration; Ms. 

Margot Dorfman, CEO, U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce; Mr. 

Chris Bates, President, National Office Products Alliance; Mr. 

Charles Day, Senior Member, Charles F. Day & Associates, LLC; 

and Ms. Aundrea Wilcox, Executive Director, Kingsport Office of 

Small Business Development & Entrepreneurship. 

ENSURING CONTINUITY OF CARE FOR VETERAN AMPUTEES: THE ROLE

OF SMALL PROSTHETIC PRACTICES

On Wednesday, July 16, 2008, the Subcommittee on Contracting 

and Technology held a hearing entitled ‘‘Ensuring Continuity of 

Care for Veteran Amputees: The Role of Small Prosthetic Practices.’’ Providing America’s veterans with quality prosthetic care 

depends on the Veterans’ Administration (VA) working closely with 

small prosthetic vendors to fill the service gaps in the VA’s health 

care system. Despite the VA’s efforts to ensure amputees have access to quality prosthetic care, prosthetic professionals claim the 

VA’s procurement process does not reflect the rapidly changing face 

of the prosthetic’s industry. Ultimately, practices contracting with 

the VA and veterans relying on them for care are being negatively 

impacted. Given these concerns, the hearing focused on the VA’s 

relationship with independent prosthetic contractors and the VA’s 

efforts to ensure continuity of care for amputees through the Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN). Particular attention was 

given to identifying the future needs of amputee soldiers returning 

from Iraq and Afghanistan, and how the VA and independent prosthetic contractors can best work together to address their needs. 

Testimony was provided by 1) AAOP President James Roger on behalf of the American Academy of Orthotists & Prosthetists (AAOP); 

2) Dennis Clark, President of Clark & Associates Prosthetics and 

Orthotics 3) Mr. Frederick Downs Jr., Chief Prosthetics and Clinical Logistics Officer, Veterans Health Administration; 4) NAAOP 

President Thomas Guth on behalf of the National Association for 

the Advancement of Orthotics and Prosthetics (NAAOP); 5) Christian Smith, President and Co-Owner of Victory Orthotics & Prosthetics, Inc.; and 6) Captain Matthew Bacik, Retired Army. 

SMALL BUSINESS RECOVERY FROM THE MIDWEST DISASTERS OF 2008

On September 24, 2008, the Subcommittee on Contracting and 

Technology held a hearing entitled ‘‘Small Business Recovery from 

the Midwest Disasters of 2008.’’ Testimony was heard from the 

Small Business Administration official Jovita Carranza and affected business owners. Mr. Mike Tully, President and CEO of Aerial Services, Inc. in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Mr. David Wilke, owner of 

Wilke’s Grocery Store in Elkader, Iowa. Mr. Don Bowers, the owner 

and operator of Tapken’s Convenience Plus in Anamosa, Iowa. Mr. 

Don Karr, owner of Affordable Plumbing and Remodeling in Cedar 

Rapids, Iowa, a company that provides design, products, installation and repair for home improvement needs. Mr. Mike Monnahan, 

President of The Blue Strawberry Coffee Company, a popular coffee 

house located in downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Mr. Randy 

Pilkington, who serves as Executive Director of Business and ComVerDate Nov 24 2008 05:37 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00073 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6601 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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munity Services at the University of Northern Iowa in Waterloo, 

Iowa. 


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SUBCOMMITTEE ON REGULATIONS, HEALTH CARE AND TRADE

OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES

THE VALUE OF HEALTH IT TO SOLO AND SMALL MEDICAL PRACTICES

On March 28, 2007, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health 

Care and Trade held a hearing ‘‘The Value of Health IT to Solo and 

Small Medical Practices.’’ The hearing focused on the importance 

of health IT to smaller health care practices, barriers to implementation, and what Congress can do to increase health IT adoption by 

solo and small group practitioners. Testimony was provided by Dr. 

Lynne M. Kirk, MD, FACP, the President of the American College 

of Physicians, Dr. Mark Leavitt, MD, PhD, Chairman, Certification 

Commission for Health Information Technology (CCHIT), Dr. Margaret Kelley, MD, a practicing OB/GYN in San Antonio, Texas, and 

Dr. David R. Shober, D.O, a family practice physician and Medical 

Staff President of Jameson Hospital in New Castle, Pennsylvania. 

ENSURING PROMPT PAYMENT FOR SMALL HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS

On August 1, 2007, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health 

Care and Trade held a hearing entitled ‘‘Ensuring Prompt Payment 

for Small Health Care Providers.’’ The hearing focused on prompt 

payment of insurance claims by insurers to health care providers 

and how claim delays impact the operation of small health care 

practices. Testimony included an examination of state prompt payment laws as well as federal requirements under ERISA and government health care programs such as Medicare. Witnesses included Dr. Cecil B. Wilson, M.D., Immediate Past Chair of the 

Board of Trustees for the American Medical Association; Dr. Robert 

Merrill, D.D.S., M.S., Chairman of the Committee on Government 

Affairs for the American Association of Orthodontists; Dr. David 

Henkes, MD, Immediate Past President of the Bexar County Medical Society in San Antonio, Texas; Dr. Gordon T. Austin, D.M.D., 

P.C., President of the Northwest District of the Georgia Dental Association; and Dr. Frank B. Kelly, MD, Chair of the Communications Cabinet for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 

MEDICARE’S REIMBURSEMENT CUTS

On November 8th, 2007, the Subcommittee on Regulations, 

Health Care and Trade held a hearing entitled ‘‘Medicare’s Reimbursement Cuts: The Potential Impact on Solo and Small Group 

Practitioners and the Businesses they run.’’ The hearing focused on 

the challenges faced by solo and small group practitioners; and how 

Medicare reimbursement cuts have impacted their practices. A primary focus of the hearing involved the Sustainable Growth Rate 

(SGR) that is used to determine the payment rates for physician 

reimbursements. Testimony was provided by Dr. Brad Fedderly, on 


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behalf of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP); Dr. 

Jeffrey P. Harris, MD, FACP, on behalf of the American College of 

Physicians—American Society of Internal Medicine (ACP); Dr. 

Melinda Rother Allen, D.O., on behalf of the American Osteopathic 

Association (AOA); Dr. Kenneth L. Noller, MD, MS, on behalf of 

the Alliance of Specialty Medicine as well as the American College 

of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; and Dr. John B. Whitlow, OD, 

on behalf of the American Optometric Association (AOA). 

MINORITY PARTICIPATION IN THE FEDERAL WORKFORCE

On April 23, 2008, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health 

Care and Trade held an oversight hearing entitled ‘‘Minority and 

Hispanic Participation in the Federal Workforce and Its Impact on 

the Small Business Community.’’ The focus of this hearing was the 

federal government’s efforts to address new challenges with their 

workforce, hiring and leadership succession. Five witnesses testified at the hearing: Ms. Nancy Kachik, the Associate Director for 

Strategic Human Resources Policy, Office of Personnel Management; Mr. Daryl Hairston, Deputy Associate Administrator, Office 

of Management and Administration; Mr. George H. Stalcup, Director, Strategic Issues, Government Accountability Office; Mr. Jose 

Osegueda, President and CEO of the National Association of Hispanic Federal Executives (NAHFE); and Mr. William Gil, Vice 

President, Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities 

(HACU). 

IMPACT OF ONLINE ADVERTISING ON SMALL FIRMS

On June 25, 2008, at 10:00, the Subcommittee on Regulations, 

Health Care and Trade convened a hearing entitled ‘‘The Impact of 

Online Advertising on Small Firms.’’ The Subcommittee heard testimony from Mr. Tim Carter, Founder, Askthebuilder.com, Mr. 

Paul Sanar, Founder & CEO, SkyFacet.com, Mr. Rob Snell, Coowner of GunDogSupply.com, Mr. Randall Rothenberg, President 

and CEO of Interactive Advertising Bureau and Mr. Richard Lent, 

Founder and CEO of AgencyNet. The hearing examined the benefits of on-line advertising to smaller firms and the increasing importance of on-line marketing strategies to many successful small 

businesses. The hearing also considered concerns that some small 

companies have raised about the challenge of driving traffic to 

their websites. 

CMS REGULATIONS AND SMALL HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS

On May 14, 2008, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care 

and Trade held a hearing entitled ‘‘The Impact of CMS Regulations 

and Programs on Small Health Care Providers.’’ Mr. Timothy Hill, 

the Chief Financial Officer of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services delivered testimony. The Subcommittee heard testimony from organizations representing small health care providers 

including physicians, clinical labs and a home care provider. The 

pharmacy industry delivered testimony. Witnesses discussed how 

CMS regulations and programs are affecting small firms. 


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REGULATORY BURDENS ON SMALL FIRMS

On July 30, 2008, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care 

and Trade held a hearing entitled ‘‘Regulatory Burdens on Small 

Firms: What Rules Need Reforms?’’ The Subcommittee heard testimony from the Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs at the Office of Management and Budget, Susan E. 

Dudley; the Chief Counsel for Advocacy, Small Business Administration, Thomas M. Sullivan; and the Deputy Commissioner of the 

Small Business/Self-Employed Division at the Internal Revenue 

Service, Chris Wagner. Organizations representing small businesses, architects and the self-employed also delivered testimony. 

Witnesses discussed the burdens of existing regulations on entrepreneurs, and how agencies are complying with the Regulatory 

Flexibility Act. The hearing examined the Office of Advocacy’s regulatory reform initiative. 


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SUBCOMMITTEE ON RURAL AND URBAN ENTREPRENEURSHIP

OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES

BROADBAND POLICY AND RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

On May 9, 2007, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship convened a hearing entitled ‘‘Maximizing the Value of 

Broadband in Rural Communities.’’ The Subcommittee heard testimony from Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein, Commissioner, Federal Communications Commission, Mr. Brandon Stephens, Chairman of the Board, BalsamWest FiberNET, Mr. T. Russell Shields, 

Founder, Ygomi LLC, Mr. Russ Kremer, President, Missouri Farmers Union, Mr. Brent J. Christensen, Vice President and General 

Manager of Christensen Communications Company, Mr. Brian 

Mefford, President and CEO, ConnectKentucky, Mr. William Deere, 

Vice President, Government Affairs, US Telecom. The hearing examined the role broadband services can play in revitalizing rural 

economies. 

HOW CAN SMALL BUSINESSES BEST ADDRESS THE HEALTHCARE NEEDS

OF THEIR EMPLOYEES?

On August 30, 2007, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship held a field hearing in Asheville, NC, entitled ‘‘How 

Can Small Businesses Best Address the Healthcare Needs of Their 

Employees?’’ The hearing focused on barriers to offering insurance 

coverage faced by small business owners, factors which influence 

the decision of small businesses to offer coverage, and possible solutions to bringing down costs and increasing coverage. Witnesses included small business owners from the Asheville, North Carolina, 

community. Testimony addressed small business concerns about 

the structure of the small group health insurance market and the 

tax treatment of small firms. 

USDA AND SBA PROGRAM HARMONIZATION

Chairman Heath Shuler (D–NC) on Wednesday, November 14. 

2007, at 10:00 a.m., convened a Subcommittee on Rural and Urban 

Entrepreneurship hearing entitled: ‘‘Program Harmonization in 

Rural America—How the Small Business Administration (SBA) 

and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Can Work Together to 

Better Serve Small Businesses’’. The subcommittee considered and 

examined how Small Business Administration (SBA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs have worked, and 

gained a better understanding and how the two agencies can work 

better together in the future through potential program harmonization and improved communications. The subcommittee gleaned 

knowledge from the small business community that included distinguished guests such as: Mr. William Shear, Director, Financial 


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Markets and Community Investments, Government Accountability 

Office (GAO); Ms. Katy Ziegler, Vice President of Government Relations, National Farmers Union (NFU); Mr. Dale Carroll, President 

and Chief Executive Officer, Advantage West Economic Development Group; Michael Myhre, CPA, State Director, Minnesota Small 

Business Development Center Network, On Behalf of the Association of Small Business Development Centers; and Mr. Leon 

Milobar, Nebraska District Office, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). 

SBA ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS AND NATIONAL

VETERANS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

On March 12, 2008, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship held a hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of the Entrepreneurial Development Programs Implemented by the Small Business Administration and National Veterans Business Development 

Corporation.’’ Oversight was conducted for the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Entrepreneurial Development (ED) portfolio 

and to evaluate the effectiveness of the National Veterans Business 

Development Corporation’s efforts to serve the needs of veteran 

small business owners. The purpose of the hearing was to consider 

the management approach and distribution of federal resources to 

implement these programs, particularly given the recent release of 

the administration’s FY 2009 budget in combination with weakening economic conditions. 

The Committee received testimony from the SBA Associate Administrator for Entrepreneurial Development regarding the agency’s upcoming budget and management plans for these programs. 

Entrepreneurial development program operators, including representatives of the Association of Small Business Development 

Centers and Women’s Business Centers, as well as the Service 

Corps of Retired Executives, testified on the programs’ capacities to 

meet the needs of small businesses and provided recommendations 

to improve the structure as well as delivery of the agency’s ED programs. The Executive Director of the National Veterans Business 

Development Corporation (NVBDC) also testified on the effectiveness of the organization in assisting veterans to become successful 

entrepreneurs. 

SECOND GENERATION BIOFUELS—THE NEW FRONTIER FOR SMALL

BUSINESSES

On Wednesday June 11, 2008, at 10:00 a.m., the Subcommittee 

on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship convened a hearing entitled: 

‘‘Second Generation Biofuels—the New Frontier for Small Businesses.’’ This forum provided a discussion of the current renewable 

fuels programs, and how they apply to the next generation fuels. 

It also enabled the subcommittee to consider future policies that 

will further develop the industry’s future. To sustain the growth 

and development of this industry, the subcommittee looked forward 

to the next generation of renewable fuels derived from alternative 

inputs. This subcommittee heard testimony about growth opportunities newer technologies for renewable fuels production can provide in the future. Witnesses included: Dr. Robert J. Wooley, Director, Process Engineering, Abengoa Bioenergy New Technology; Mr. 


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Scott Barnwell, General Manager, Blue Ridge Biofuels in Asheville, 

NC; Mr. Tom Todaro, CEO, Targeted Growth and Sustainable Oils; 

Mr. Jeffrey M. Trucksess, Executive Vice President, Green Earth 

Fuels, LLC; and Mr. Robert Byrnes, Nebraska Renewable Energy 

Systems. 

COMPETITIVE BIDDING FOR DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

On Wednesday, May 21, 2008, the Subcommittee on Rural and 

Urban Entrepreneurship held a hearing entitled ‘‘Competitive Bidding for Durable Medical Equipment.’’ Small durable medical 

equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) suppliers have experienced difficulty with the competitive bidding program. Many claim the bidding program is fraught with procedural 

flaws and operational problems that call into question the fairness 

of the overall process. Given these concerns, the hearing focused on 

the bidding program’s structure, operational problems, and the financial impact it could have on DMEPOS suppliers and manufacturers. Testimony was provided by Laurence Wilson, Director of 

DMEPOS Policy, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; Julie 

Weidemann on behalf of the VGM Group; Dr. Bob Haralson M.D. 

on behalf of the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons; Dr. 

Rebecca H. Wartman O.D. on behalf of American Optometric Association; Linwood Staub on behalf of the Advanced Medical Technology Association; Dr. Rebecca H. Wartman O.D. on behalf of the 

American Optometric Association; Casey Hite on behalf of the 

American Association for Homecare (AAHomecare) and the North 

Carolina Association of Medical Equipment Services; Heath Sutton 

on behalf of Mountaineer Oxygen Services; Jon Einfalt on behalf of 

the Association of Community Pharmacists; and Mr. Gary Gilberti 

on behalf of the National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology. 


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SUBCOMMITTEE ON INVESTIGATIONS AND OVERSIGHT

OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES

COMPETITIVE BIDDING FOR DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

On October 31, 2007, Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight held a hearing entitled ‘‘Competitive Bidding for Durable 

Medical Equipment: Will Small Suppliers Be Able to Compete?’’ 

The hearing focused on how the competitive bidding program for 

certain durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) has been structured, the manner in which it will 

be implemented, and its impact on small business suppliers and 

manufacturers. Additional attention was also given to alternative 

approaches to the program. Testimony on the subject was provided 

by Laurence Wilson, Director of DMEPOS Policy, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; Georgetta Blackburn on behalf of the 

American Association for Home Care; Dr. Ross Taubman, President 

Elect of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) will 

testify on behalf of the APMA; John Shirvinsky on behalf of Pennsylvania Association of Medical Suppliers; Carol Gilligan, on behalf 

of Health Aid of Ohio, Inc.; Richard Saxon, on Behalf of the Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed); and Jose 

Navarro, on behalf of the National Association of Chain Drug 

Stores. 

SBA’S RESPONSE TO THE JULY 5TH FLOODS IN BEAVER COUNTY, PA

On August 23, 2007, the Subcommittee on Investigations and 

Oversight held a field hearing in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, entitled 

‘‘The SBA’s Response to the July 5 Floods in Beaver County, Pennsylvania.’’ That hearing focused on the SBA’s response to flooding 

that occurred in Beaver County Pennsylvania on July 5, 2007. The 

Committee received testimony from the SBA’s Associate Administrator for Disaster Assistance, as well as from the Chairman of the 

Beaver County Board of Commissioners, the Beaver County Chamber of Commerce, the Director of the local library, and a small business owner from Aliquippa. These individuals provided testimony 

on the effects of the flooding, the status of SBA assistance in the 

community, and progress that had been made in recovering from 

the flood. 

NATIONAL VETERANS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

On May 2, 2007, the Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight held a hearing entitled ‘‘Is the Veterans Corporation Prepared 

to Provide Entrepreneurial Development Assistance to Service Men 

and Women Returning from Iraq & Afghanistan?’’ The hearing focused on the National Veterans Business Development Corporation 

(Veterans Corporation), a public-private organization designed to 


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provide entrepreneurial development assistance to veterans seeking 

to start and expand businesses. The focus of the hearing was considering the effectiveness of Veteran Corporation to assist recent 

veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. The Committee received testimony from administrators of the Veterans Corporation 

and the Small Business Administration’s Veterans Affairs Office 

regarding ongoing assistance and new programs for former service 

members. Representatives of veteran service organization testified 

regarding the Veterans Corporation’s limited outreach, service delivery, and performance accountability while suggesting modifications to the organization. 

SBIR AND MEDICAL INNOVATIONS

On February 13, 2008, the Subcommittee on Investigations and 

Oversight convened a hearing entitled ‘‘SBIR: Advancing Medical 

Innovations.’’ The hearing examined the impact of the SBIR program on the development of innovative medical technologies, therapies and products. The Subcommittee heard testimony from Jo 

Anne Goodnight SBIR/STTR Program Coordinator, National Institutes of Health, Amy Comstock Rick, Chief Executive Officer, Parkinson’s Action Network, Mel Billingsley, President and CEO, Life 

Sciences Greenhouse, James D. Stefansic, Chief Technology Officer, 

Pathfinder Therapeutics, Inc., and Charles Matthews, Nicholas 

Franano, Chief Scientific Officer, Proteon Therapeutics, Inc. 

THE IMPACT OF INCREASING GAS PRICES ON SMALL BUSINESSES

On April 9, 2008, the Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight held a hearing entitled: ‘‘The Impact of Increasing Gas Prices 

on Small Businesses.’’ Rising prices and volatile supplies of gasoline and diesel fuel impacts small businesses’ bottom line and ability to do business at a time when our economy is heavily reliant 

on transportation to move products to and from the marketplace. 

The subcommittee heard from experts from Mr. John Urbanchuk, 

Economist, LECG; Mr. Tim Williford, Chairman Government Affairs Committee, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National 

Association; Mr. Gary Gilberti, Chesapeake Rehab Equipment; Mr. 

Michael J. Graff, President & CEO, Graff Trucking, Inc.; and Mr. 

Vincent F. Orza, Jr., Dean, Meinders School of Business, Oklahoma 

City University. 

The witnesses presented testimony focusing on a wide range of 

issues including: plans for the future to deal with high energy 

costs; changes and modifications to their business plans in order to 

accommodate and absorb rising costs; dealing with the inability to 

invest in new capital due to the higher cost of gas; and the overall 

adverse impact prices at the pump have on their particular business sector. 

NURSING HOME SAFETY ISSUES

On Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at 10:00 am in Room 1539 of the 

Longworth House Office Building, the Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight of the Committee on Small Business met for 

the purposes of examining the impact of criminals and sexual predators on the operations of small businesses that operate long-term 


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13 ICFs provide long-term care for residents who do not require the 24-hour nursing services 

available in SNFs. These institutions, along with definitions for SNFs, were made in 1967 

amendments to the Medicare statute. National Academy of Science, Institute of Medicine, IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF CARE IN NURSING HOMES 242 (1986). 

care facilities, either intermediate care facilities (ICFs) 13 or skilled 

nursing facilities (SNFs) collectively and colloquially referred to as 

nursing homes. The hearing assessed the regulatory problems associated with the placement of criminals and sexual predators in 

nursing homes by state officials and the industry’s response to that 

problem. Witnesses from the nursing home industry, victim advocacy and other interested parties testified on the subject matter. 


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OVERSIGHT PLAN FOR THE 110TH CONGRESS 

Clause 2(d) of rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives for the 110th Congress requires that each standing committee 

in the first session of a congress adopt an oversight plan for the 

two-year period of the Congress and submit the plan to the Committee on Government Reform and the Committee on House Administration. 

Clause 1(d)(1) of rule XI requires each committee to submit to 

the House not later than January 2 of each odd-numbered year, a 

report on the activities of that committee under rules X and XI 

during the Congress ending on January 3 of such year. Clause 

1(d)(3) of rule XI also requires that the report include a summary 

of the oversight plans submitted pursuant to clause 2(d) of rule X; 

a summary of the actions taken and recommendations made with 

respect to each such plan; and a summary of any additional oversight activities undertaken by the committee and any recommendations made or actions taken thereon. 

Part A of this section contains the Oversight Plan of the Committee on Small Business for the One Hundred Tenth Congress, 

which the Committee considered and adopted on January 31, 2007. 

Part B of this section contains a summary of the actions taken 

to implement that plan and the recommendations made with respect to the plan. Additional oversight activities undertaken by the 

Committee, and the recommendations made or actions taken thereon, are contained in the specific sections relating to the activities 

of the full Committee and each of the subcommittees. 


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PART A 

OVERSIGHT PLAN OF THE COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS FOR THE

ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS

JANUARY 31, 2007. Approved by the Committee on Small Business. 

Approved by the Committee on Small Business 

Ms. VELA ́ ZQUEZ, from the Committee on Small Business, submitted to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform 

and the Committee on House Administration the following 

REPORT 

Clause 2(d)(1) of rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives for the 110th Congress requires each standing committee, no 

later than February 15 of the first session to adopt an oversight 

plan for the 110th Congress. The oversight plan must be submitted 

simultaneously to the Committee on Oversight and Government 

Reform and the Committee on House Administration. 

The following agenda constitutes the oversight plan of the Committee on Small Business for the 110th Congress. It includes areas 

in which the Committee and its subcommittees expect to conduct 

oversight during this Congress, but does not preclude oversight or 

investigation of additional matters or programs as they arise. The 

Committee will consult, as appropriate, with other committees of 

the House that may share jurisdiction on any of the subjects listed 

below. 

I. Oversight of the Small Business Administration 

A. Agency Management. The Committee will review the management of the Agency’s programs, personnel, and financial resources. 

The Committee will examine methods the SBA uses to manage risk 

in its loan portfolio and review the agency’s policies and practices 

regarding its lending partners. The Committee will review the 

agency’s outreach and public/private funding initiatives through cooperative agreements, partnerships and co-sponsorships. Further, 

the Committee will evaluate the status of the SBA’s transformation 

plan, personnel training initiatives, and incentive programs. The 

Committee also will review the working relationship between the 

agency and its Inspector General to ensure that management recommendations and objectives are being actively considered. Finally, 

the Committee will continue to assess the agency’s financial management and reporting goals. 

B. Lending Programs. The Committee will examine the SBA’s 

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nesses. The Committee will examine ways to reduce the cost of the 

7(a) loan program to both small businesses and lenders. In addition, the Committee will review proposals that would expand and 

broaden the program’s reach, including those focused on low-income and rural areas. The Committee will conduct oversight hearings regarding the 504 Certified Development Company program to 

ensure that it is properly carrying out its mission of economic development and job creation. The Committee will also review the 

Microloan program with the intent of reducing barriers to its 

growth and expansion. 

C. Investment Programs. The Committee will study the impact 

of the recent termination of the Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) Participating Securities program on entrepreneurs. In 

particular, the Committee will seek to understand the effect of its 

termination on early stage firms as well as on investment companies. The Committee will examine proposals that would reopen the 

SBIC Participating Securities program, as well as alternative venture capital investment initiatives. Finally, the Committee will consider policy changes that would increase individual angel investment and foster small business growth. 

D. Disaster Programs. The Committee will evaluate the SBA’s 

disaster programs to ensure that they can meet the needs of small 

businesses affected by disasters. This includes reviewing policy proposals that would make more effective use of private sector lenders, 

improve the agency’s response times, better coordinate the agency’s 

program with other federal efforts, and provide for improved system resiliency. The Committee will oversee any actions the agency 

has taken to modify the disaster program. Finally, the Committee 

will consider policy and organizational alternatives for providing 

disaster assistance to homeowners. 

E. Entrepreneurial Development Programs. The Committee will 

evaluate the SBA’s Entrepreneurial Development programs and 

whether existing initiatives have the capacity to meet the needs of 

their growing and diverse constituencies. The Committee will ascertain whether the Small Business Development Centers network 

has the capacity and infrastructure to provide assistance to address 

the unique challenges facing small business, particularly with respect to energy, regulatory fairness, healthcare, and under-served 

entrepreneurs. The Committee will examine the Women Business 

Centers program to look for ways to meet the mutual goal of creating new Centers versus the sustainability of existing Centers. In 

carrying out this review, the Committee will study whether the 

sustainability funding formula needs modification to ensure that 

the original intent of the program’s creators is met. 

F. Government Contracting and Business Development Programs. The Committee will oversee the SBA’s efforts to maximize 

small business participation in the federal marketplace. In particular, SBA’s role in mitigating bundled contracts will be assessed. 

Further, the Committee will review SBA’s role in the miscoding of 

the size of businesses awarded federal government contracts. The 

Committee will examine the SBA’s 8(a) program to ensure that its 

rules and regulations do not impede minority business growth and 

development. The Committee will review the HUBZone program to 

ensure that the program is being utilized properly by contracting 


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officers and the program is meeting its objective of promoting economic development in poor regions of the United States. The Committee will assess the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Procurement Program to ensure that it is being properly carried out. Finally, the Committee will make certain that the Women’s Procurement Program is implemented by the SBA. 

G. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. As part of its efforts 

to reauthorize the SBIR program during the 110th Congress, the 

Committee will evaluate the effectiveness of the program and will 

endeavor to gather first-hand testimony from SBIR program administrators, SBIR program participants, and relevant experts. The 

Committee will investigate potential changes to the SBIR program 

that would advance critical national priorities including energy 

independence and economic development in urban and rural empowerment zones and enterprise communities. The Committee will 

also examine the STTR program’s effectiveness as a means to help 

small businesses gain access to technologies developed at federal 

laboratories. 

H. Office of Advocacy. The Committee will assess the Office of 

Advocacy’s Economic Research programs to determine if they meet 

the underlying mission of the Office. 

I. Veterans Corporation. The Committee will review the on-going 

activities of the National Veterans Business Development Corporation to determine whether the Corporation is serving as an effective advocate for veteran-owned businesses. In particular, the Committee will evaluate the relationship between the SBA and the Corporation to identify whether the SBA is working cooperatively with 

the Corporation or whether work is being unnecessarily replicated. 

The Committee will identify whether the Corporation’s efforts at 

expanding and enhancing private funding options have been successful. The Committee also will investigate whether additional 

federal investment is warranted and, if so, for what duration. 

II. Agriculture 

A. Federal Agricultural Policy. The Committee will examine the 

impact of federal policies on family farms, ranchers, and rural 

small businesses. The Committee will conduct oversight hearings 

on Farm Bill reauthorization legislation to investigate the policies’ 

effects on the income, production costs, and prices received by 

small producers. 

B. Financial Assistance. The Committee will examine federal resources, including loans and fee subsidies, which spur private enterprises in rural areas. The Committee will evaluate federal programs that provide training, information, and networking resources 

to enhance entrepreneurial activity in these regions. 

C. Biofuels. The Committee will examine the role that farmers 

and rural businesses can play in the development of biofuels. The 

Committee will examine the operational needs of small farmers 

working to shift production from food to energy crops and to build 

facilities to refine alternative resources. 

D. Value Added Products. The Committee will increase oversight 

of financing and technical assistance programs that assist small 

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cluding organic products. The Committee will examine the operational needs of small farmers working to add value to outputs and 

maintain competitiveness in the changing marketplace. 

E. Rural Economic Development. The Committee will oversee 

federal activities to spur economic development in rural communities. The Committee will conduct hearings on the physical and financial infrastructure needed to maintain and grow small rural 

businesses. 

III. Energy 

A. Energy Prices. The Committee will conduct hearings on the 

impacts of rising energy and petroleum prices on small businesses, 

particularly fuel intensive sectors, such as farming, transportation, 

and those that use petroleum products as feedstock. 

B. Relief Measures. The Committee will examine price relief 

measures in existing and upcoming energy legislation and their application to small businesses struggling under burdensome fuel 

costs. 

C. Energy Efficiency. The Committee will investigate methods to 

increase energy efficiency and resource conservation practices for 

small businesses. The Committee will increase oversight of federal 

initiatives to streamline business operations and reduce operational 

costs for small firms. 

IV. Financial services 

A. Trends in Small Business Financing. To better understand the 

mechanisms that small firms are using to fund their business, the 

Committee will examine recent research, including the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Small Business Finances. 

B. Access to Financial Services. The Committee will review federal laws that impede small businesses fair access to financial services such as their ability to receive interest on checking accounts 

or to have a variety of potential lending options. 

C. Role of Small Lenders. The Committee will endeavor to assess 

the impact of consolidation in the financial services industry on 

small lenders and small business borrowers. In addition, the Committee will review industry trends and regulatory developments 

that may reduce the availability of financing to small firms. 

D. Insurance. The Committee will evaluate the use of insurance 

products by small businesses, including property/casualty lines. 

The Committee will assess the impact of federal insurance reforms 

on small insurance firms and small business insured. Finally, the 

Committee will examine the tort liability system and its impact on 

the cost of insurance, particularly for small businesses. 

E. Capital Formation. The Committee will examine challenges 

that small businesses face in raising capital. This will include a review of federal securities laws and regulations that affect small 

firms, such as Securities and Exchange regulation S–B. 

V. Health care 

A. Access to Affordable Health Coverage and State Market Reforms. The Committee will evaluate a number of health care policies designed to expand access to affordable health insurance 

through small employers. The Committee will look at proposed fedVerDate Nov 24 2008 02:51 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00092 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6601 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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eral changes to give small employers greater options for coverage. 

The Committee will examine current and proposed state initiatives 

to promote coverage and the impact of these reforms on small employers in those markets. The Committee will examine the impact 

of these changes on the small group health insurance market. 

B. Expanding Available Options for Small Employers to Purchase 

Health Insurance. The Committee will examine options for removing barriers to affordable small employer coverage. The Committee 

will conduct hearings to review new and emerging policies to increase access to affordable health care coverage. These possible 

changes include, but are not limited to, increasing pooling mechanisms for small businesses, reinsurance models, and ERISA reforms. 

C. Tax Credits. The Committee will examine the possibility of tax 

credits to promote coverage and their impact on small employers. 

In particular, the Committee seeks to understand whether tax 

credits are a viable vehicle for health care market reform and the 

budgetary effect of such changes. The Committee will hold hearings 

to explore tax credits and other approaches to encourage small employer purchase of coverage for their employees. 

D. Health IT Adoption. The Committee will conduct hearings to 

evaluate the economic benefits derived through the adoption of a 

uniform, secure, interoperable health information technology infrastructure (Health IT) by small health care groups—i.e., physicians, 

vendors and other providers. In particular, the Committee will consider the degree to which Health IT creates market efficiencies and 

whether those advantages will exist for small groups. The Committee will evaluate the challenges of Health IT adoption. 

E. Health Care Cost and Quality. The Committee will examine 

efforts to increase access to information on the cost and quality of 

health care. The Committee will conduct hearings to explore how 

access to cost and quality information can affect the purchase of insurance by small employers. 

F. Health Care Provider Compensation and Regulatory Structure. The Committee will examine federal reimbursement of health 

care providers and the effect that such reimbursement decisions 

have on non-Medicare/Medicaid insurer reimbursement to physicians and other healthcare providers. The Committee will evaluate 

state regulation, such as insurance laws that affect provider compensation and business organization. The Committee will hold 

hearings to consider how current practices within the health care 

market affect small health care providers. 

VI. Immigration 

The Committee will review proposals to reform the nation’s immigration system to ensure that small businesses will be able to 

readily access a high-quality workforce. The Committee will examine reform proposals to ensure that enforcement, security and economic needs are appropriately balanced. 

VII. International trade 

A. International Agreements. The Committee will hold hearings 

on the impact of new and existing international commitments on 

the small business sector. The Committee will increase oversight of 


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ongoing international negotiations to ensure trade regulations, 

standards, and facilitation measures serve the needs of small businesses. 

B. Trade Enforcement. The Committee will evaluate trade enforcement activities, particularly affecting intellectual property 

rights, and methods to protect small businesses from unfair trade 

practices. The Committee will investigate trade remedies for firms 

adjusting to pressures from low-cost overseas and corporate producers. 

C. Export Assistance. The Committee will examine efforts to increase small businesses’ access to global markets, including initiatives to reduce excessively burdensome administrative and legal requirements. The Committee will conduct oversight of federal export 

assistance programs, including those conducted by the Export-Import Bank, the SBA, and the United States Departments of Commerce and Agriculture, which seek to reduce small firms’ costs of 

expanding into international markets. 

VIII. Pensions and retirement 

A. The Committee will examine the current state of pension coverage for small employers. The Committee will look at reforms to 

improve the plan options for small businesses and possible ways to 

defray administrative costs of operating the plan. The Committee 

will hold hearings to look at innovative ways to promote coverage 

for small businesses and their employees. This will include looking 

at modifications to defined benefit and defined contribution plans 

to encourage coverage. 

B. The Committee will assess the impact of recently passed pension legislation on small employer’s ability to offer pension plans. 

This will include an examination of the impacts on promoting coverage and addressing any concerns over increased liabilities of offering a pension plan. 

IX. Procurement 

A. Federal Procurement Practices. The Committee recognizes the 

increase in use of contracting methods such as interagency contracting and electronic procurement and will work to ensure that 

these procedures allow the full participation by small businesses. 

The Committee will work to make sure that the regulations are 

being followed in a manner that enables competition, increases 

small business procurement opportunities, and provides the government with the best value. 

B. Transparency. The Committee will work to increase transparency in federal procurement activities. Greater transparency 

will allow agencies to be evaluated fairly on their commitment to 

competition, integrity, and best value, as well as their support of 

small business and entrepreneurship. 

C. 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes. The Committee will continue to 

monitor the recovery efforts related to the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes as well as investigate past contracting actions related to 

those events. The Committee will specifically look at emergency 

procurement practices, such as the use of no-bid contracts and increasing the micropurchase threshold, to enhance small business 

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petition to the extent permitted by the necessities of the emergency. 

D. Iraqi Reconstruction. The Committee will monitor the contracts awarded for the reconstruction of Iraq, with an emphasis on 

ensuring that small businesses have received fair prime contracting 

and subcontracting opportunities. The Committee will hold accountable those agencies and contractors who fail to provide competition as required by law. 

E. Contract Bundling. The practice of contract bundling displaces 

small businesses from the federal marketplace. The Committee will 

continue to monitor the use of ‘‘bundled’’ contracts and ensure that 

regulations are being followed. The Committee will continue to 

work to ‘‘unbundle’’ contracts when appropriate. 

F. Federal Contracting Goal. The Committee will review federal 

agencies performance in meeting annual contracting goals. In order 

to foster greater small business participation in the federal marketplace, the Committee will seek to work with agencies that have historically underperformed in meeting their contracting goals. 

G. Sole Source Contracting. The Committee will continue to monitor the use of sole-source contracts, particularly with regard to 

Alaska Native Corporations. The Committee will work to ensure 

that all socio-economic contracting programs are operating as intended. 

H. Agency Miscounting of Contracts. As a follow-up to a hearing 

in which GAO found that agencies were counting contracts awarded to large corporations towards their small business procurement 

goals, the Committee will investigate the sufficiency of agencies’ efforts to rectify the problem. The Committee also will investigate 

the adequacy of the Federal Procurement Data System and its capabilities to record accurate data on federal procurement by government agencies, especially as it relates to the size of the business 

awarded a contract. 

I. Inaccurate Reporting of Federal Contracting Awards. The 

Committee will evaluate the accuracy of procurement data used to 

determine the small business goal and whether agencies knowingly 

relied on inaccurate data to achieve these goals. The Committee 

will examine the causes for such inaccuracies, including, but not 

limited to, management oversight, appropriateness of procurement 

policies, and adequacy of funds. 

J. Contracting Certifications by Business. The Committee will investigate if any large businesses improperly certified themselves as 

small in order to receive contracts. Furthermore, the Committee 

will assess whether federal procurement officials took any actions 

to uncover these problems and implemented steps to prevent them. 

Should the Committee uncover questionable practices, it will report 

them to the appropriate enforcement authorities. 

X. Regulations 

The Committee will examine federal agency rules and regulations, as well as legislation that proposes such rules and regulations, to ensure that small businesses are not subject to undue regulatory burdens. In doing so the Committee will focus on: 

A. Whether the regulation imposes unnecessary barriers to 

competitive market entry by small businesses and places small 


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businesses at a competitive disadvantage with respect to larger 

competitors, including the impact that Section 404 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act is having on the competitiveness of small companies; 

B. Whether the regulation minimizes recordkeeping and reporting requirements including the elimination of any duplicative requirements as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act; 

C. Whether the rules and regulations are in plain English; 

D. Whether the rules and regulations are indistinguishable 

of existing state and local regulations; and 

E. Whether small businesses are provided sufficient compliance assistance including small entity compliance guides 

issued by agencies as mandated by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. 

In addition, the Committee will examine the agency process for 

promulgating rules and regulations to include: 

A. The adequacy of an agency’s compliance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act; 

B. Whether the agency minimized burdens and maximized 

benefits for small businesses while achieving its statutory and 

regulatory objectives; and 

C. Whether small businesses have been provided sufficient 

opportunity to comment and provide input into the development of regulations. 

XI. Tax 

A. Tax Simplification and Relief. The Committee will hold hearings on the concerns over the growing complexity of the tax code 

for small employers. The Committee will work to identify ways to 

simplify the tax code and reduce the tax burden on small business 

owners. The Committee will focus on changes to the tax code that 

provide targeted tax relief and equity for small business owners. In 

addition, the Committee will examine any specific tax relief including, but not limited to, expensing and depreciation that will spur 

investment by small businesses. 

B. Alternative Minimum Tax. The Committee will examine ways 

to reform the alternative minimum tax to provide tax relief for 

small businesses. The Committee will review proposed changes and 

the budgetary costs of making such modifications. 

C. Tax Gap Efforts by the IRS. The Committee will examine recent efforts by the IRS to close the so-called ‘‘Tax Gap’’ and the impact of these measures on small businesses. The Committee shall 

review efforts by the agency that have a negative impact on small 

businesses. The Committee will examine measures to close the tax 

gap through legislative changes and the impact of these changes on 

small businesses. 

D. Investment in Small Business and New Markets Tax Credit. 

The Committee will review what is being done to encourage economic growth and investment in small businesses through the tax 

code. The Committee will look at ways to encourage equity investment in small businesses. The Committee will look at the current 

state of the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) program. 

E. Estate Tax. The Committee will examine the impact of the 

sunset of the estate tax repeal on business planning and the ability 


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of small businesses to continue as going enterprises after the 

deaths of the founders. 

XII. Technology and innovation 

A. Technology Workforce. The Committee will further investigate 

the regulations governing the annual cap on H–1B visas and the 

process by which such visas are issued, in light of the challenge 

small technology companies have in hiring and retaining scientists, 

researchers and engineers. 

B. Financing for Startups. The Committee will review the eligibility requirements of the Small Business Innovation Research 

(SBIR) program with respect to venture capital investment to ensure that small companies are afforded a wide array of financing 

options. In addition, the Committee will examine the eligibility requirements for the SBIR program to determine the extent that venture capital investment should be permitted in the program. 

C. Broadband. The Committee will assess the role that small 

companies can play in the development and expansion of wireless 

and wire line broadband technologies. The Committee also will review the impact on the planned spectrum auctions will have on 

small business. This review will examine the process by which the 

Federal Communications Commission complies with 3(a)(2) of the 

Small Business Act while meeting its obligations under 332 of the 

Federal Communications Act of 1934 to provide opportunities for 

designated entities including small businesses. 

D. Development of Energy Efficient Technologies. The efforts of 

technology companies to create and promote energy efficient devices will be examined, as well as ways that the federal government could encourage more of America’s small businesses to adopt 

‘‘green’’ technologies. The Committee will look at the potential 

modifications to the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) 

program that could advance national energy independence. The 

Committee also will examine whether changes made by the Energy 

Policy Act of 2005 affect the viability of renewable energy generators. 

E. eWaste. The Committee will review the efforts that the technology industry, particularly small companies, is making to address 

the growing challenge of recycling computer equipment and peripherals. 


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PART B 

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OVERSIGHT PLAN OF THE COMMITTEE ON

SMALL BUSINESS FOR THE ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS

I. Oversight of the Small Business Administration 

A. Agency management 

The Committee continued to oversee the management of the SBA 

through hearing on the agency’s FY 2008 and FY 2009 budget proposals. These hearings, as well as associated meetings and interviews with agency personnel, informed the Committee of the SBA’s 

managerial operations. On February 8, 2007 the Committee on 

Small Business held a hearing of the SBA’s proposed budget for FY 

2008. This hearing included a review of the administration’s funding requests as well as agency management of key policy initiatives 

for the fiscal year. The Committee heard testimony from SBA Administrator Steven Preston. On February 7, 2008 the Committee on 

Small Business held a hearing of the SBA’s proposed budget for FY 

2009. This hearing included a review of the administration’s funding requests as well as agency management of key policy initiatives 

for the fiscal year. The Committee heard testimony from SBA Administrator Steven Preston. 

In addition to the annual budget hearings, the Committee held 

several hearings on SBA’s management of agency programs, including those related to disaster assistance, entrepreneurial development, lending, and contracting. Finally, the Committee requested 

a GAO investigation into the agency’s management of the 

HUBZone program and also requested that the SBA examine irregularities in the award of contracts through the 7(j) program. 

B. Lending programs 

The Committee has conducted several hearings and briefings on 

the SBA’s lending programs. The Committee held three hearings 

that focused exclusively on the SBA’s 7(a), Certified Development 

Company, and Microloan programs, culminating in the introduction 

of two pieces of legislation, H.R. 1332 and H.R. 3020, which were 

ultimately reported out of Committee and passed by the House. On 

March 1, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held an oversight 

hearing entitled, ‘‘Increasing Access to Capital for Our Nation’s 

Small Businesses.’’ That hearing examined the challenges faced by 

entrepreneurs in securing affordable financing through the 7(a) and 

504 loan programs. On March 8, 2007, the full Committee held a 

hearing entitled, ‘‘Disaster Relief and Access to Capital Legislation.’’ In that hearing, the Committee reviewed legislation affecting 

the SBA’s Access to Capital programs. Specifically, this hearing focused on the H.R. 1332, the Small Business Lending Improvements 


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Act, legislation to improve and expand the SBA’s 7(a) and Certified 

Development Company loan programs. 

In passing H.R. 1332, the Committee satisfied several of its objectives concerning the SBA’s Access to Capital programs. H.R. 

1332 featured an initiative that will reduce the borrower and lender fees associated with the 7(a) loan program. Additionally, the bill 

contained provisions that would expand the reach of the 7(a) and 

504 loan programs, particularly in rural areas and for socially and 

economically disadvantaged areas. Finally, H.R. 1332 will make an 

array of technical changes to the 504 loan program and enhances 

the ties between 504 lenders and the communities that they serve 

by requiring lenders to include locals on the board of directors. 

On March 5, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held 

a hearing regarding the SBA’s access to capital programs. This included testimony from Eric Zarnikow, the Associate Administrator 

for Capital Access at SBA, the National Association of Government 

Guaranteed Lenders, the National Association of Development 

Companies, the National Association of Small Business Investment 

Companies, and the Association of Enterprise Opportunity. The 

Subcommittee heard about the challenges SBA program participants face in making capital more available for small firms. 

C. Investment programs 

The Committee conducted two hearings on the SBA’s investment 

programs, culminating in the introduction and passage of H.R. 

3567, the Small Business Investment Expansion Act of 2007. On 

June 21, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held an oversight 

hearing entitled, ‘‘Increasing Investment in Our Nation’s Small 

Businesses.’’ That hearing examined the challenges that small 

businesses face in seeking capital investment in the private markets. Of particular interest was witness testimony on the role of equitable investment for early stage and newly formed firms. 

On September 6, 2007, the full committee held a hearing entitled, ‘‘A Hearing to Consider Legislation Updating and Improving 

the SBA’s Investment and Surety Bond Programs.’’ Specifically, 

that hearing examined draft legislation that would improve and expand the SBA’s investment programs, including the Small Business 

Investment Company (SBIC) program and the New Markets Venture Capital (NMVC) program as well as the Surety Bond program. 

In passing H.R. 3567, the Committee satisfied several of its objectives concerning the SBA’s Investment programs. Perhaps most 

notably, H.R. 3567 established an Angel Investment Program 

under the purview of the SBA. The bill also modernized and 

streamlined three programs in the Small Business Investment Act 

of 1958, the SBIC, NMVC and Surety Bond programs. Finally, the 

bill will revise SBA rules that inhibited the free flow of venture 

capital investment to small businesses. 

D. Disaster programs 

The Committee has conducted several hearings and briefings on 

the SBA’s disaster program. These activities were largely driven by 

the problems encountered in the SBA’s response to the 2005 Gulf 

Coast hurricanes. The Committee held three hearings that focused 

on the SBA’s disaster lending program and culminated its work on 


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the SBA Disaster Program with passage of H.R. 1361, the RECOVER Act. 

On February 14, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled 

‘‘The Small Business Administration’s Response to the 2005 Gulf 

Coast Hurricanes.’’ That hearing explored deficiencies in the Small 

Business Administration’s response to the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes and the concurrent Government Accountability Office report 

that examined the root causes of those problems. William Shear, 

the Director of Financial Markets and Community Investment at 

the Government Accountability Office, who presented the results of 

a concurrently released GAO report entitled ‘‘Response to the Gulf 

Coast Hurricanes Highlights Need for Enhanced Disaster Preparedness,’’ which recommended that SBA take several steps to improve its disaster preparedness. 

On March 8, 2007, the full Committee held a hearing entitled, 

‘‘Disaster Relief and Access to Capital Legislation.’’ The purpose of 

the hearing was to review legislation affecting the SBA’s Disaster 

and Access to Capital programs. Specifically, this hearing focused 

on the H.R. 1361, the Relief for Entrepreneurs: Coordination of Objectives and Values for Effective Recovery Act of 2007 (RECOVER), 

legislation that would reform and improve the SBA’s Disaster Assistance program. The Committee received testimony from the Associate Administrator for Disaster Relief. Additionally, the Committee received testimony from James Lee Witt, former director of 

the Federal Emergency Management Agency. 

On August 23, 2007, the Subcommittee on Investigations and 

Oversight held a field hearing in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, entitled 

‘‘The SBA’s Response to the July 5 Floods in Beaver County, Pennsylvania.’’ That hearing focused on the SBA’s response to flooding 

that occurred in Beaver County Pennsylvania on July 5, 2007. 

In passing the RECOVER Act, the Committee successfully addressed numerous problems that were identified following deficiencies in the SBA’s response to the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes. 

Most notably, the bill will require the SBA to perform comprehensive, risk-based, disaster planning on an annual basis and that the 

agency has mechanisms in place to maintain its disaster readiness 

over the long term. The act also establishes several new disaster 

assistance tools to improve the disaster planning process, including 

the reorganization of the agency’s Office of Disaster Assistance, a 

requirement that the agency engage in an annual disaster simulation exercise, and requirements that the agency formalize plans to 

address the need for additional space and employees in the event 

of a major disaster. 

The RECOVER act also enhances the SBA’s disaster loan program by improving the manner in which disaster loans are processed, approved, and disbursed, and by providing the agency with 

additional financial assistance tools that are intended to better fit 

the various needs of small businesses following a disaster. H.R. 

1361 established an Enhanced Lending Authority for Preferred 

Lenders Program that will enable the SBA to enlist the resources 

of private lenders to process, approve, disburse, and service loans 

during incidents of national significance. Finally, the bill creates a 

small grant program to assist small businesses damaged by Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma with their continued recovery. 


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Finally, in response to the severe flooding that occurred in the 

Midwest during 2008, the Committee requested that resources be 

expedited to the area and maximum flexibility be given to affected 

parties. The Committee requested and received daily updates regarding the disaster loan program. 

E. Entrepreneurial development programs 

The Committee continued to monitor and update SBA Entrepreneurial Development Programs to ensure the agency meets the current needs of small businesses. Programmatic and resource evaluations were executed in particular of the agency’s Small Business 

Development Centers and Women’s Business Center Programs. 

To evaluate the entrepreneurial development programs’ service 

level and resource gaps, the Committee held a hearing on February 

8, 2007 entitled ‘‘SBA FY 2008 Budget Request.’’ SBA Administrators testified on the status of current ED programs, reported on improvements to agency resources, including increased efficiencies 

and performance. Representatives of outreach programs, including 

the SBDCs and WBCs as well as a Native American business 

owner testified regarding the need for adequate and guaranteed 

funding for their centers. 

The Committee analyzed potential modifications to the agency’s 

entrepreneurial programs in a hearing on May 16, 2007. Representatives of program service providers and agency administrators reviewed proposed legislation to reauthorize the Entrepreneurial Development Programs. On June 18, 2007, the House of 

Representatives voted 405–18 in favor of H.R. 2359, the ‘‘SBA Entrepreneurial Development Programs Act of 2007,’’ a bill sponsored 

by Vice Chair of the Small Business Committee, Representative 

Sestak, to enhance the agency’s business development programs. 

The Committee held a hearing regarding resource gaps for the 

agency’s programs on September 27, 2007. Administration officials 

and program service providers presented funding level requests in 

order to maintain and upgrade capacity levels. 

The Committee also explored the role of the SBA’s Entrepreneurial Development programs through H.R. 4253, the Military Reservist and Veteran Small Business Reauthorization and Opportunity Act of 2007. This bill incorporated several of the initiatives 

contained in H.R. 2366, SBA Veterans’ Programs Act of 2007. Most 

notably, H.R. 4253 increased funding for the SBA’s Office of Veterans’ Business Development and requires the SBA to increase the 

number of Veterans Business Outreach Centers throughout the 

U.S. The bill also establishes an interagency task force consisting 

of senior level representatives from the SBA as well as from several other Federal agencies and representatives from veteran service organizations to coordinate the efforts of Federal agencies to improve and expand access to veterans services and programs. The 

bill also establishes a National Reservist Enterprise Transition and 

Sustainability program through which the SBA will provide competitive grant awards to Small Business Development Centers, 

Women’s Business Centers, Veterans Business Outreach Centers, 

and any other veterans business assistance program so that they 

may provide veteran-owned businesses with management, financing, procurement, technical, and regulatory assistance. 


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On March 12, 2008, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship held a hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of the Entrepreneurial Development Programs Implemented by the Small Business Administration and National Veterans Business Development 

Corporation. Oversight was conducted for the SBA’s entrepreneurial development portfolio and to evaluate the effectiveness of 

the National Veterans Business Development Corporation’s efforts 

to serve the needs of veteran small business owners. The purpose 

of the hearing was to consider the management approach and distribution of federal resources to implement these programs, particularly given the recent release of the administration’s FY 2009 

budget in combination with weakening economic conditions. 

F. Government contracting and business development programs 

The Committee conducted regular oversight through hearings on 

SBA’s contracting programs, which reviewed the challenges that 

small firms face in making use of these initiatives. The Committee 

also held hearings on the SBA’s implementation of the Women’s 

Procurement Program. The Committee and the House passed legislation making changes to the SBA’s 8(a), Service-Disabled Veterans, HUBZone, and other contracting programs. The Committee 

requested a GAO examination of the HUBZone program and a 

hearing was held on July 17, 2008 on the GAO’s findings. In addition, the Committee requested that the SBA investigate improprieties in the award of contracts under the 7(j) program. 

On September 19, 2007 the Committee conducted a hearing on 

the effectiveness of the SBA’s contracting programs and the challenges they face. This was followed by an April 16, 2008 hearing 

in the Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology. The Subcommittee considered the management and effectiveness of the 

8(a), service-disabled veterans, and HUBZone programs, as well as 

the agency’s proposal to implement the women’s procurement program. 

On March 21, 2007 the Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology held a hearing on the implementation of the Women’s Procurement Program and federal government efforts in contracting 

with women-owned businesses. On January 16, 2008 the Committee held a hearing to examine the SBA’s implementation of the 

Women’s Procurement Program. The SBA had issued a proposed 

regulation to administer the program and the Committee heard 

testimony on its adequacy and appropriateness given Congressional 

intent in creating the program. The first panel was comprised of 

the Administrator of the SBA and an official from the Department 

of Justice. The second panel was comprised of women-owned small 

businesses, a legal scholar, and a law practitioner. 

G. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small 

Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs 

The Committee on Small Business undertook a comprehensive 

reauthorization effort of the SBIR and STTR programs during the 

110th Congress. This included oversight and legislative hearings, 

meetings with key stakeholders, and consideration of reauthorization legislation in both the Committee and on the House floor. 


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The Committee held three hearings on the reauthorization of the 

SBIR program. On January 29, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘SBIR: America’s Technology Development Incubator.’’ 

The hearing explored the numerous contributions that the SBIR 

program makes to national security priorities, economic development objectives and America’s international economic competitiveness. On February 13, 2008 the House Committee on Small Business, Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight convened a 

hearing entitled ‘‘SBIR: Advancing Medical Innovations.’’ The Subcommittee hearing examined the impact of the SBIR program on 

the development of innovative medical technologies, therapies and 

products. On March 13, 2008 the Committee on Small Business 

held a hearing to review a Committee Print of proposed legislation 

(H.R. 5819) that would reauthorize and modernize the SBIR program. 

H.R. 5819, the SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act extends for a period of two years both SBIR and STTR. The legislation modernizes 

the SBIR program, changing the legislative guidelines and policies 

in order to update the program in response to the unique challenges facing small research companies. The Committee and House 

passed the legislation during the 110th Congress. 

H. Office of Advocacy 

The Committee conducted oversight of the Office of Advocacy 

through the annual budget process, as well as through hearings on 

Advocacy’s effort to reduce regulatory burden on small firms. On 

December 6, 2007, the Committee held a hearing on legislation to 

improve the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The Chief Counsel for Advocacy at the Small Business Administration, Thomas M. Sullivan 

delivered testimony. On July 30, 2008, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade held a hearing entitled ‘‘Regulatory 

Burdens on Small Firms: What Rules Need Reforms?’’ The Subcommittee heard testimony from, among other witnesses, the Chief 

Counsel for Advocacy, Small Business Administration, Thomas M. 

Sullivan. The hearing examined the Office of Advocacy’s r3 regulatory reform initiative. 

I. Veterans Corporation 

The Committee continued to monitor the performance of the National Veterans Business Development Corporation (NVBDC) and 

the entity’s ability to meet the needs of the current veteran population. The committee held meetings with NVBDC officials and 

Veteran Service Organization representatives to identify gaps in 

services by the organization as well as recommendations to improve its performance. 

To evaluate the NVBDC’s performance, the Committee held a 

hearing on May 2, 2007. Agency officials and veterans service organizations presented analysis on the NVBDC and proposals to comprehensively modernize the Federal government’s veteran entrepreneurship resources. 

The Committee also examined the role of the Veterans Corporation through H.R. 4253, the Military Reservist and Veteran Small 

Business Reauthorization and Opportunity Act of 2007. This bill incorporated several of the initiatives contained in H.R. 2366, SBA 


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Veterans’ Programs Act of 2007. Most notably, H.R. 4253 contained 

a provision that removed the SBA Advisory Committee on Veterans 

Business Affairs from the purview of the Veterans Corporation and 

permanently extended the operational authority of the SBA Advisory Committee on Veterans Business Affairs. 

II. Agriculture 

A. Federal agriculture policy 

The Committee conducted regular oversight of agricultural issues 

that affect small businesses and family farmers. On November 14, 

2007, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship 

held a hearing entitled ‘‘Program Harmonization in Rural America—How the Small Business Administration (SBA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Can Work Together to Better 

Serve Small Businesses’’. The Subcommittee considered and examined how the SBA and USDA programs have worked, and gain a 

better understanding of how the two agencies can work better together in the future through potential program harmonization and 

improved communications. 

On June 7, 2007, the Committee held a hearing on small business priorities in the 2007 Farm Bill. The Committee examined 

policies that assist small farmers and businesses with successfully 

competing in the domestic and global agricultural markets. On 

May 1, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on the impact of rail 

transportation access on family farmers. The Committee held a 

hearing on April 17, 2008, entitled ‘‘Maintaining Public Lands for 

Hunting, Fishing, Ranching and Small Businesses.’’ The Committee examined how the Department of the Interior is meeting the 

needs of ranchers dependent on the use of public lands for grazing. 

B. Financial assistance 

The Committee examined the role that the SBA’s financial assistance programs play in providing federal resources to spur private enterprises in rural areas. At hearings held on March 1, 2007 

and March 8, 2007, the Committee received testimony from community banks and credit unions that stressed the need to increase 

rural lender participation in the SBA’s 7(a) and 504 loan programs 

so that they may provide access to these programs for entrepreneurs in rural areas. To address these concerns, the Committee 

established a Rural Lending Outreach program under the framework of the 7(a) loan program in H.R. 1332. Additionally, the Committee directed the SBA to make improved nationwide distribution 

of investment program resources a priority of its New Markets 

Venture Capital program in H.R. 3567. 

C. Biofuels 

The Committee held several hearing on biofuels during the 110th 

Congress. On May 3, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled 

‘‘The Impact of Renewable Energy Production in Rural America’’. 

This hearing focused on the consumption and production of renewable fuels. On June 18, 2008, the Subcommittee on Rural and 

Urban Entrepreneurship held a hearing on second generation 

biofuels. On June 20, 2007, the Subcommittee on Contracting and 


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Technology convened a hearing on the workforce demands on small 

bio-energy businesses. The subcommittee explored the potential for 

sustaining the renewable fuels sector for small businesses in rural 

America. 

The Committee considered initiatives in H.R. 2389, the Small 

Energy Efficient Businesses Act (SEEBA) that ultimately passed 

the House in H.R. 3221 that were aimed at increasing small business development and use of biofuels. H.R. 2389 adapts the SBA’s 

investment programs to achieve increased investment in small 

businesses involved in the research, development, production, or 

marketing of energy efficient goods, products, or services, including 

biofuels, by permitting licensed debenture SBICs to issue special 

Energy Saving (ES) Debentures that provide substantial benefits 

over existing debentures. 

In addition to hearings, the Committee conducted oversight of 

biofuels issues through the legislative process. H.R. 2389 also creates a new program within the Small Business Investment Act of 

1958 called the ‘‘Renewable Fuel Capital Investment Company’’ 

(RFCIC) program. This program will authorize the creation of new 

Renewable Fuel Capital Investment Companies (RFCICs) that 

issue SBA guaranteed debentures to invest in small businesses engaged in researching, manufacturing, developing, and bringing to 

market renewable energy sources, with specific emphasis on investing in businesses that produce biofuels. 

D. Value added products 

Through hearings on agricultural matters, the Committee considered challenges that family farmers face in developing value-added 

products. On June 18, 2008, the Subcommittee on Rural and Entrepreneurship held a hearing on second generation biofuels, which 

considered the possibility of using biomass, such as corn stover, 

husks, and cobs, to produce biofuels. On May 15, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on rising food prices and their impact on 

small businesses, which included considerable examination of cellulosic ethanol from non-food sources. Finally, on July 10, 2008, the 

Committee held a hearing on the role of green technologies in spurring economic growth. This hearing reviewed farms’ role in generating electricity through alternative sources for their own utilization or to sell it back to the grid. This is a major opportunity for 

them to increase their investments and diversify their on- and offfarm financial risks. 

E. Rural economic development 

On June 7, 2007, the Committee held a hearing regarding family 

farms and rural small businesses. The committee examined policies 

that assist small farmers and businesses with successfully competing in the domestic and global agricultural markets. On May 9, 

2007, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship 

convened a hearing entitled ‘‘Maximizing the Value of Broadband 

in Rural Communities.’’ The hearing examined the role broadband 

services can play in revitalizing rural economies. 


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III. Energy 

A. Energy prices 

The Committee conducted regular oversight of the impact of energy prices on small businesses. On August 31, 2007, the Committee held a field hearing in Johnson City, Tennessee on the cost 

and availability of energy and the effect on small businesses. The 

Committee discussed the importance of energy to small businesses 

as energy consumers, and talk about how increasing costs are cutting into profit margins. On April 9, 2008, the Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight held a hearing on the impact of increasing gas prices on small businesses. On May 15, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on rising food prices and their impact on 

small businesses. The hearing considered the role that energy 

prices are contributing to food price inflation. The Committee conducted a hearing on June 26, 2008, entitled ‘‘Grounded: How the 

Air Transportation Crisis Is Hurting Entrepreneurs and the Economy.’’ Witnesses discussed the effect of increasing energy prices on 

airlines and small firms in the travel and tourism industry. 

B. Relief measures 

On October 10, 2007, the Committee convened a hearing on 

small business energy policy, including an examination of policies 

that assist small businesses to successfully compete in the domestic 

and global marketplace. The Committee also included in H.R. 2389, 

the Small Energy Efficient Businesses Act (SEEBA) that ultimately 

passed the House in H.R. 3221 that were aimed at increasing small 

business energy efficiency through both conservation practices for 

small businesses and through the adaptation of existing SBA programs to fund energy efficient equipment and practices. H.R. 2389, 

the Small Energy Efficient Business Act (SEEBA) provides information, technical assistance, and access to capital to help small 

businesses implement, develop, and market energy efficient goods, 

products, and services. The bill also establishes a new lending program that would provide 7(a) loans that cost half the upfront guaranty and ongoing annual lender fees of regular 7(a) loans and a 90 

percent guarantee if the proceeds of the loan are used to purchase 

or develop energy efficient technologies or reduce the borrower’s energy consumption by 10 percent or more. 

C. Energy efficiency 

On July 11, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled: ‘‘Small 

Businesses at the Forefront of the Green Revolution: What More 

Needs To Be Done To Keep Them Here?’’ The hearing examined 

how small firms are playing a vital role in developing materials, 

and building ‘‘green’’ facilities in an ever changing global setting. 

On July 10, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on the role of 

green technologies in spurring economic growth. The hearing reviewed the role that small businesses play in producing green products and providing green services. 

IV. Financial services 

The Committee examined the most recent figures related to 

small business financing and held a hearing on November 7, 2007 


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to explore the results of the Federal Reserve’s most recent survey 

of small business finances. The hearing coincided with the release 

of the 2007 Report to Congress on the Availability of Credit to 

Small Businesses. On April 30, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance 

and Tax held a hearing to examine the effect that prevailing economic conditions have had on small business access to capital. In 

particular, the Committee examined how small firms have been affected by a contraction in the national credit supply and explored 

how these conditions impacted national employment, gross domestic product, and trade. On April 3, 2008, the Committee held a 

hearing to explore the role that credit cards play in providing small 

businesses with access to capital. Specifically, the Committee explored trends surrounding recent growth in credit card lending to 

small businesses and examined the specific advantages and disadvantages that credit cards provide to entrepreneurs. 

The Committee explored the role of small lenders in small business access to capital at its March 1, 2007 and March 8, 2007 hearings. At those hearings, the Committee received testimony from the 

Credit Union National Association and from the Independent Community Bankers of America on the role that small lenders play in 

making capital available to small businesses. Additionally, the 

Committee examined the trend of continued consolidation in the financial services industry during its November 7, 2007 hearing on 

the State of the Small Business Economy as the Federal Reserve 

released data on the continued trend of small business lending 

through small financial institutions. 

The Committee examined the process and challenges facing 

small businesses in capital formation through its June 21, 2007 

and September 6, 2007 hearings on increasing investment to small 

businesses. These hearings focused on a variety of investment 

strategies, including patient venture capital, angel investment, and 

SBA investment programs. 

V. Health Care 

A. Access to affordable health coverage and state market reforms 

The Committee convened several hearings on access to affordable 

health coverage and state market reforms. On October 25, 2007, 

the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Health Insurer Consolidation—The Impact on Small Business.’’ The hearing examined the 

effects of consolidation on the cost of health insurance and the impact on physicians and other health care providers in terms of reimbursements and administrative burdens. On February 26, 2008, 

the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘State Strategies To Expand 

Health Insurance Coverage for Small Businesses’’—Featuring Testimony on Health Care Reform in Minnesota and Pennsylvania 

from Governors Pawlenty (R–MN) and Rendell (D–PA). The hearing examined the question of state health reform and how it may 

impact the small business community. The principal focus of the 

hearing was to assess whether state reform efforts will prove successful, and how the federal government can best assist states in 

their efforts to promote coverage. 


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B. Expanding available options for small employers to purchase health insurance 

During the 110th Congress, the Committee reviewed policy options to expand health care coverage for small employers. On January 23, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Limited Options for Small Businesses in the Small Group Market.’’ The hearing examined the challenges small businesses face providing health 

insurance coverage to their workers. 

On May 24, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held a hearing entitled ‘‘Expanding Small Business Health Insurance Coverage Using the Private Reinsurance Market.’’ The hearing focused 

on how reinsurance has been used by businesses to manage their 

risk of financial loss. Witnesses testified on alternative reinsurance 

arrangements that have been used by employers to control high 

risk and catastrophic health care costs associated with medical 

benefit plans. Testimony was also provided describing the current 

landscape of the reinsurance market and barriers to the adoption 

of reinsurance by small business in the health care arena. 

On August 30, 2007, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship held a field hearing entitled ‘‘How Can Small Businesses Best Address the Healthcare Needs of Their Employees?’’ 

The hearing focused on barriers to offering insurance coverage 

faced by small business owners, factors which influence the decision of small businesses to offer coverage, and possible solutions to 

bringing down costs and increase coverage. Witnesses included 

small business owners from the Asheville, North Carolina community. Testimony addressed small business concerns about the structure of the small group health insurance market and the tax treatment of small firms. 

C. Tax credits 

In its effort to examine health care issues, the Committee held 

hearings that considered changes in tax policy to encourage greater 

coverage of small employers. Among them was the March 14, 2007 

hearing entitled ‘‘Challenges and Solutions to Health Insurance 

Coverage for Small Businesses.’’ The hearing focused on barriers to 

coverage for small businesses ranging from their tax treatment 

under the Code to the structure of the health insurance market. 

D. Health IT adoption 

The Committee held two hearings that focused on Health IT 

issues. On March 28, 2007, the Subcommittee on Regulations, 

Health Care and Trade held a hearing ‘‘The Value of Health IT to 

Solo and Small Medical Practices.’’ The hearing focused on the importance of health IT to smaller health care practices, barriers to 

implementation, and what Congress can do to increase health IT 

adoption by solo and small group practitioners. On Thursday, July 

31, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held a hearing entitled: 

‘‘Cost and Confidentiality: The Unforeseen Challenges of Electronic 

Health Records in Small Specialty Practices.’’ In spite of findings 

about the many benefits of HIT, its dissemination has been slow, 

due in part to the high costs of Electronic Health Records (EHR) 

systems for smaller health care practices. Small health care practices have been reluctant to install systems because of concerns 


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over the upfront capital investment, ongoing maintenance and 

short-term productivity loss. 

The Committee also addressed this issue during a hearing held 

on September 25, 2008, entitled ‘‘Small Business Competition Policy: Are Markets Open for Entrepreneurs?’’ The hearing examined 

how the FTC/DOJ Statements of Antitrust Enforcement Policy in 

Health Care have failed to keep up with changes in the health care 

marketplace and created barriers to the adoption of Health IT 

among providers. 

E. Health care cost and quality 

The Committee reviewed the cost and quality of health care 

through several hearings on agency procurement practices. On July 

25, 2007, Committee on Small Business held a hearing entitled 

‘‘Competitive Bidding for Clinical Lab Services: Where’s It Heading 

and What Small Businesses Can Expect?’’ The hearing examined a 

competitive biding demonstration program developed by the Center 

for Medicare and Medicaid Services to reimburse clinical lab providers for Medicare services. In addition, on Wednesday, May 21, 

2008, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship 

held a hearing entitled ‘‘Competitive Bidding for Durable Medical 

Equipment.’’ Small durable medical equipment, prosthetics, 

orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) suppliers have experienced difficulty with the competitive bidding program. Many claim the bidding program is fraught with procedural flaws and operational 

problems that call into question the fairness of the overall process. 

Given these concerns, the hearing focused on the bidding program’s 

structure, operational problems, and the financial impact it could 

have on DMEPOS suppliers and manufacturers. 

F. Health care provider compensation and regulatory structure 

The Committee held a series of hearings on health care provider 

compensation issues. On August 1, 2007, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade held a hearing entitled ‘‘Ensuring 

Prompt Payment for Small Health Care Providers.’’ The hearing focused on prompt payment of insurance claims by insurers to health 

care providers and how claim delays impact the operation of small 

health care practices. Testimony included an examination of state 

prompt payment laws as well as federal requirements under 

ERISA and government health care programs such as Medicare. 

On November 8th, 2007, the Subcommittee on Regulations, 

Health Care and Trade held a hearing entitled ‘‘Medicare’s Reimbursement Cuts: The Potential Impact on Solo and Small Group 

Practitioners and the Businesses They Run.’’ The hearing focused 

on the challenges faced by solo and small group practitioners; and 

how Medicare reimbursement cuts have impacted their practices. A 

primary focus of the hearing involved the Sustainable Growth Rate 

(SGR) that is used to determine the payment rates for physician 

reimbursements. On Thursday, May 8, 2008, the Committee held 

a hearing entitled ‘‘Medicare Physician Fee Cuts: Can Small Practices Survive.’’ The hearing examined the business challenges faced 

by small medical practices and the impact Medicare physician fee 

cuts would have on the operation of health care practices. 


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In addition to hearings, the Committee also included a provision 

in H.R. 1332, the Small Business Lending Improvements Act, to 

provide health professionals with a source of affordable capital 

when located in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). This 

provision would establish a program to reduce borrower and lender 

fees by half and increase the guaranty to 90 percent for loans made 

to doctors and dentists located in Federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). The Committee believes that 

this program, in combination with existing federal assistance programs, will help mitigate the risk associated with opening a new 

practice and encourage more health professionals to establish their 

small businesses in HPSAs. 

VI. Immigration 

The Committee held a hearing on May 10, 2007 on immigration 

policies and their impact on small firms. The committee heard testimony from small businesses regarding the role that immigration 

plays in their industry as well as their associated concerns about 

labor shortages, federal verification requirements, and the current 

visa system. 

VII. International trade 

A. International trade agreements 

The Committee continued to evaluate the effectiveness of policies 

and resources that promote the competitiveness of small businesses 

as the economy becomes integrated with foreign countries through 

trade liberalization efforts. To evaluate the impact upon small businesses from U.S. commitments to open markets with partner countries, the Committee held a hearing on November 1, 2007. The 

hearing examined the likely result of agreements signed by the Administration and pending ratification by Congress with countries in 

Latin America and Asia. It also considered additional federal resources necessary for entrepreneurs to access newly opened markets and protect against unfair trade practices in the globalized 

economy. 

To ensure small businesses have adequate tools to benefit from 

the opening of countries’ borders, the Committee analyzed the 

SBA’s international trade programs on February 8, 2007. The purpose of the hearing was to determine the agency’s current level of 

service based on revenues and future demands for assistance to 

small U.S. businesses, including those engaged in exporting and in 

industries facing significant foreign competition. 

B. Trade enforcement 

The Committee continued to conduct extensive oversight of Federal and foreign enforcement of international trade rules and 

standards. Discussions were held with business groups and entrepreneurs to highlight the impacts from unfair trade practices. The 

Committee also monitored resources available for small businesses 

to ensure their continued viability as markets are opened to foreign 

competition. 

To evaluate the impacts from the liberalization of trade rules, the 

Committee held a hearing on June 13, 2007 which highlighted 


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small businesses’ need for tools to protect against unfair trade 

practices. Business groups, particularly manufacturing representatives, presented the case for enhanced access to trade remedy and 

dispute assistance at the federal level. 

C. Export assistance 

On June 19, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held a hearing entitled ‘‘Small Business Exports in the Current Economic Climate.’’ The purpose of the hearing was to examine trends in small 

businesses export activities during the country’s economic downturn and consider policies to assist small U.S. exporters. 

VIII. Pensions and retirement 

On October 24, 2007, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held 

a hearing regarding the barriers small businesses face in offering 

pension benefits to their employees as compared to larger entities. 

The hearing revealed that many small firms cannot afford to provide retirement benefits or lack the in-house expertise necessary to 

comply with Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) 

guidelines. 

IX. Procurement 

The Committee has conducted oversight of federal procurement 

policy through both hearings and the legislative process. On March 

6, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Are New Procurement Methods Beneficial to Small Business Contractors?’’ The 

Committee examined the impact of the decreasing acquisition 

workforce and the new, automated methods that agencies are turning to, including schedule contracting and reverse auctions. 

The Committee also conducted an extensive review of small business participation in Hurricane Katrina contracts. On April 12, 

2007, the Committee held a field hearing in New Orleans, Louisiana, entitled ‘‘Participation of Small Businesses in Hurricane 

Katrina Recovery.’’ The hearing focused on the contracting records 

of the most relevant government agencies. A follow-up hearing was 

held on August 2, 2008 to revisit these issues. Following this hearing, the Committee continued to review the agencies’ performance. 

The Committee considered several procurement matters through 

the legislative process, including contract bundling and raising the 

federal small business contracting goal. H.R. 1873, the Small Business Fairness in Contracting Act, expanded the definition of contract bundling, primarily closing a loophole that excluded construction and other new work from bundling analyses. The legislation 

also raised the federal small business contracting goal from 23 percent to 30 percent and required overseas contracts to be counted 

when calculating this figure. 

X. Regulations 

The Committee held hearings and intervened on several regulations that place small businesses at a competitive disadvantage. On 

November 15, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Reducing the Regulatory Burden on Small Business.’’ The Committee 

heard testimony from small business representatives of the transportation, health care and other industries as well as from an adVerDate Nov 24 2008 02:51 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00112 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6602 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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ministrative law expert. Witnesses discussed the federal regulatory 

burden on small businesses and how Congress can act to reduce it. 

Witnesses delivered testimony regarding the regulatory burdens 

imposed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the 

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Department 

of Homeland Security and the Federal Aviation Administration. 

The Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade held a 

hearing on July 30, 2008, entitled ‘‘Regulatory Burdens on Small 

Firms: What Rules Need Reforms?’’ The hearing examined the adequacy of agency compliance with Section 610 of the Regulatory 

Flexibility Act. 

Hearings were also held on individual regulations and their impact on small firms. This included a hearing on July 18, 2007, entitled ‘‘Medicaid Drug Reimbursements: Are Cuts Bad Medicine for 

Small Businesses and Beneficiaries?’’ The Committee met to discuss the final rule promulgated by the Centers for Medicare and 

Medicaid Services which sets the average manufacturer price as 

the basis for certain prescription drug reimbursements to pharmacies. The hearing examined the impacts of the rule on small 

business retail pharmacies and Medicaid beneficiaries and whether 

the agency adequately complied with the Regulatory Flexibility Act 

in promulgating the rule. 

The Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade held 

a hearing on May 14, 2008, entitled ‘‘The Impact of CMS Regulations and Programs on Small Health Care Providers.’’ The Subcommittee examined how CMS regulations and programs are affecting small firms. Witnesses discussed the Recovery Audit Contractor program and provider compensation issues. On May 22, 

2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘RESPA and Its Impact on Small Business.’’ The Committee examined the proposed 

rule issued by the Department of Housing and Urban Development 

pursuant to the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act and its potential burdens on small businesses in the real estate industry. 

The Committee held two hearings about the impact of SarbanesOxley regulations on small firms. On June 5, 2007, the Committee 

convened a hearing entitled ‘‘Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404: Will the 

SEC and PCAOB’s New Standards Lower Compliance Costs for 

Small Companies?’’ The hearing examined the new regulations 

issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the 

Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) in light of 

the committee’s ongoing concern that Section 404 of the SarbanesOxley Act of 2002 (SOX 404) places an undue regulatory burden on 

small firms. On December 12, 2007, the House Committee on Small 

Business convened a hearing entitled ‘‘Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404: 

New Evidence on the Costs for Small Businesses’’. The hearing examined recently released data on SOX 404 compliance costs being 

incurred by small companies and assessed the appropriateness of 

the SEC’s compliance timeline for small businesses. 

The Committee also considered whether regulations were in 

plain English. The Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology 

held a hearing on February 26, 2008, entitled ‘‘Plain Language in 

Paperwork—The Benefits to Small Business.’’ The Subcommittee 

examined how the use of plain language by the federal government 

can reduce the paperwork burden on small businesses. 


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The Committee held a hearing regarding the recordkeeping and 

reporting requirements on small firms. On February 28, 2008 the 

Committee convened a hearing entitled ‘‘Improving the Paperwork 

Reduction Act for Small Businesses.’’ The Committee examined 

whether the Paperwork Reduction Act is serving to minimize recordkeeping and reporting requirements on small businesses. The 

Committee discussed ways to improve the Paperwork Reduction 

Act to make it more effective in reducing paperwork burdens on 

small firms. 

The Committee, in its role as a monitor, held a series of staff 

meetings with Federal agencies to discuss their obligations to small 

firms pursuant to the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The Committee 

examined the agencies’ regulatory agendas, focusing on rules with 

disparate impacts on small businesses. Further, to ensure that 

agencies were considering small businesses in their rulemakings, 

the Committee issued several letters. On August 20, 2007, the 

Chairwoman submitted comments to Secretary of Agriculture Michael Johanns regarding mandatory country of origin labeling and 

minimizing recordkeeping burdens for small businesses. On February 23, 2007, the Chairwoman submitted comments to the Acting 

Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 

Leslie Norwalk, on the agency’s lack of compliance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act on the proposed rule implementing the provisions of the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 pertaining to prescription 

drugs under the Medicaid program (71 Fed. Reg. 77174). 

On September 25, 2007, the Chairwoman sent a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Chertoff on the agency’s lack of compliance with RegFlex in promulgating the ‘‘No-Match’’ letter rule 

(72 Fed. Reg. 45611). On May 9, 2007, the Chairwoman sent a letter to Dennis Deziel of the Chemical Security Task Force at the Department of Homeland Security to request an extension of the time 

period for public comment on Appendix A to part 27 (Appendix A) 

of the interim final rule on chemical facilities (72 Fed. Reg. 17689). 

On August 3, 2007, the Chairwoman sent a letter to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, Stephen Johnson, 

expressing the concerns of small businesses regarding a lack of consideration of their views in the rulemaking process on the proposed 

rule regarding control of emissions of nonroad spark-ignition engines (72 Fed. Reg. 28098). On May 1, 2008, the Chairwoman sent 

a letter to the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration, Edmund S. Hawley, regarding the Certified Cargo 

Screening Program pilot and the fact small firms were not eligible 

to participate. 

XI. Tax 

The Committee held a wide range of hearings on tax simplification and relief proposals. This included a March 22, 2007 hearing 

on the 3 percent government withholding requirement. In an effort 

to close the tax gap, Sec. 511 of the 2005 TIPRA requires the government to withhold 3 percent on nearly all of its payments for 

goods or services. The hearing examined the impact of this provision on small businesses. On Wednesday, September 26, 2007 the 

Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology hearing entitled: 

‘‘Small Business Renewable Energy Tax Incentive Possibilities’’. 


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The Subcommittee heard testimony from witnesses on how to encourage increased renewable energy investment through changes in 

the Internal Revenue Code. On October 3, 2007, the Committee 

held a hearing on the Internet Tax Moratorium, which currently 

bans taxes on Internet access, and prevented taxes on Internet 

transactions and was set to expire on November 1, 2007. 

On February 14, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on Business Activity Taxes (BATs) and their impact on small businesses. 

BATs are taxes imposed by states on out of state businesses in the 

form of income taxes, royalty fees, or licensing fees for conducting 

business within a particular state’s borders. The hearing highlighted the many problems small businesses face when attempting 

to conduct interstate sales. As a follow up to the hearing, the Committee sent a comment letter to the Judiciary Committee that detailed the substance of the hearing. The letter, signed by Chairwoman Vela ́zquez and Ranking Member Chabot, indicated the concerns regarding BATs from the small business perspective while 

also stating that the Committee is willing to work with Judiciary 

on a matter of great importance to the small business community. 

On June 12, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Electronic Payments Tax Reporting—Another Tax Burden for Small 

Businesses.’’ The hearing examined recent efforts to require information tax reporting on all credit card receipts of small businesses. 

Specifically, this hearing focused on the potential administrative 

and financial burdens that new reporting requirements could create for small businesses and financial institutions. 

On April 10, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on how certain 

updates could be made to the Internal Revenue Code that could 

help small businesses stimulate the economy. The witnesses explained to the Committee that in many respects, the tax code has 

not adequately responded to the economy that exists in the 21st 

century, and this hinders their ability to grow and expand their 

business. Along with the hearing, the Committee released a report, 

which detailed seven ways the Internal Revenue Code should be 

immediately updated. Finally, the Committee introduced legislation, H.R. 6601, which will attempt to incorporate those recommendations into law. 

On June 18, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held 

a hearing to discuss the business classification known as the S corporation and what potential changes should be made to their operating rules. The hearing reviewed which changes could be made to 

better help small businesses raise capital and improve impediments to growth. On July 24, 2008, the Committee held a hearing 

on the stimulus package enacted in February of 2008 and its impact on small businesses and the economy in general. The hearing 

also examined the current state of the economy, and whether another round of stimulus is needed, what form that should take, and 

small business’ role in getting our nation back on track. 

During the 110th Congress, the Committee also considered the 

issues pertaining to the tax gap. On April 26, 2007, the Committee 

held a hearing that examined the difference between the amount 

of taxes paid voluntarily and timely for a given year and the 

amount of taxes due. The hearing examined how efforts to close the 

tax gap could impact small businesses. 


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XII. Technology and Innovation 

The Committee conducted oversight of technology policy issues 

and their impact on small firms. On March 7, 2007, the House 

Committee on Small Business convened a hearing entitled ‘‘Advancing the Innovation Agenda: The Perspective of the Technology 

and Telecommunications Industry.’’ The hearing examined the 

technology and telecommunication industries’ policy priorities for 

the 110th Congress and considered how the industries’ policy priorities might impact small innovative companies. This included major 

technology policy issues as well as related workforce and education 

issues. 

On May 9, 2007, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship convened a hearing entitled ‘‘Maximizing the Value of 

Broadband in Rural Communities.’’ The hearing examined the role 

broadband services can play in revitalizing rural economies. On 

June 25, 2008 at 10:00 the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health 

Care and Trade convened a hearing entitled ‘‘The Impact of Online 

Advertising on Small Firms.’’ The hearing considered the benefits 

of on-line advertising to smaller firms and the increasing importance of on-line marketing strategies to many successful small 

businesses. The hearing also examined concerns that some small 

companies have raised about the challenge of driving traffic to 

their website. 

On May 7, 2008, the Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology convened a hearing entitled ‘‘The DTV Transition and Small 

Businesses: Small Firms Contributing to a Big Change.’’ The hearing reviewed the impact of the DTV transition on small broadcasters, small cable and video service providers and small electronics retailers. The Subcommittee also considered whether there 

are appropriate measures Congress should take in order to minimize the burden of the DTV transition on small firms, particularly 

those small firms serving rural areas. On March 29, 2007, the 

House Committee on Small Business convened a hearing entitled 

‘‘The Impact of Proposed Patent Reform Legislation on Small Businesses.’’ The hearing examined the cost and benefits of reforming 

the U.S. patent system and the potential impact on small businesses. 

On June 28, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business convened a hearing entitled the ‘‘Assessing the Impact of the Copyright Royalty Board Decision to Increase Royalty Rates on Recording Artists and Webcasters.’’ The hearing examined a recent decision by the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) that increased substantially the royalty rates that Internet broadcasters or ‘‘webcasters’’ 

pay to compensate copyright owners for digital transmissions of 

their sound recordings. On October 10, 2007, the House Committee 

on Small Business convened a hearing entitled ‘‘The Impact of the 

700 Megahertz Wireless Spectrum Auction on Small Business.’’ The 

hearing examined the potential impact of the upcoming wireless 

spectrum auction’s rules on entrepreneurs, small wireless communications providers and small businesses that are without access to 

reliable and affordable access to broadband services. 

The Committee also considered the role of technology in increasing energy efficiency. On Wednesday, July 11, 2007, at 10:00 a.m., 

the Committee held a hearing entitled: ‘‘Small Businesses at the 


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Forefront of the Green Revolution: What More Needs to Be Done 

to Keep Them Here?’’ The hearing examined how small firms are 

playing a vital role in developing materials, and building ‘‘green’’ 

facilities in an ever changing global setting. These facilities and initiatives are designed to improve energy efficiency and use environmentally friendly production processes during building construction. 

Finally, the Committee reviewed the role of financing to startups. 

This includes hearings and the consideration of legislation. The 

Committee on Small Business held a hearing on September 6, 

2007, on H.R. 3567, which established an Angel Financing program 

for startup companies, as well as modernized the SBA’s investment 

programs. In addition, the Committee held several hearings on the 

SBIR program, which is a vital source of funding for early stage 

firms. This included a hearing on January 29, 2008, that examined 

the importance of the SBIR program to American competitiveness 

as well as changes to it that may strengthen the initiative. On 

March 13, 2008, the Committee convened a legislative hearing to 

review legislation reauthorizing and modernizing the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. 


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APPENDIX I—COMMITTEE LEGISLATION 

PART A—COMMITTEE REPORTS 

Reports filed by the Committee on Small Business with the 

House 

110–104—Report to accompany H.R. 1332, a bill to amend the 

Small Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act to improve the access to capital programs of the Small Business Administration, and for other purposes, having considered the same, report favorably thereon with an amendment and recommend that 

the bill as amended do pass. April 20, 2007 

110–82—A report to accompany H.R. 1361, the Relief for Entrepreneurs: Coordination of objective and Values for Effective Recovery ‘‘Act of 2007 (The Recover Act) to amend the Small Business 

Act and improve the disaster relief programs of the Small Business 

Administration and for other purposes. March 30, 2007 

110–111—(parts 1, 2, and 3) A report to accompany H.R. 1873 a 

bill to amend the Small Business Act to reauthorize programs and 

activities of the Small Business Administration relating to procurement and for other purposes. April 26, 2007 

110–192—A report to accompany H.R. 2284 a bill that would 

amend the Small Business Act to expand and improve the assistance provided by Small Business Development Centers to Indian 

Tribal members, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians. June 15, 

2007 

110–193—A report to Accompany H.R. 2359 a bill to amend the 

Small Business Act and reauthorize programs to assist small business concerns and for other purposes. June 15, 2007 

110–194—A report to accompany H.R. 2366 the SBA Veteran’s 

Programs Act of 2007, a bill to reauthorize the veterans entrepreneurial development programs of the Small Business Administration and for other purposes. June 15, 2007 

110–195—A report to accompany H.R. 2397, the Small Business 

Women’s Programs Act of 2007, a bill to reauthorize the women’s 

entrepreneurial development programs of the Small Business Administration, and for other purposes. June 15, 2007 

110–312—A report to accompany H.R. 2992, the SBA Trade Programs Act of 2007, a bill to improve trade programs, and for other 

purposes. September 4, 2007 

110–313—A report to accompany H.R. 3020, the Microloan 

Amendments and Modernization Act, to amend the Small Business 

Act to improve the Microloan program and for other purposes. September 4, 2007 

110–347—A report to accompany H.R. 3567, the Small Business 

Investment Expansion Act of 2007 which amends the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to expand opportunities for investVerDate Nov 24 2008 02:51 Jan 06, 2009 Jkt 079006 PO 00000 Frm 00119 Fmt 6601 Sfmt 6601 E:\HR\OC\HR926.XXX HR926

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ments in small businesses, and for other purposes. September 25, 

2007 

110–400—A report to accompany H.R. 3867, the Small Business 

Contracting Program Improvements Act, to update and expand the 

procurement programs of the Small Business Administration and 

for other purposes. October 22, 2007 

110–595 Part 1—A report to accompany H.R. 5819 the SBIR/ 

STTR Reauthorization Act, a bill to amend the Small Business Act 

to improve the Small Business Innovation Research program and 

the Small Business Technology Transfer program and for other 

purposes. April 18, 2008 


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PART B—PUBLIC LAWS 

This table lists measures that contained matters within the jurisdiction of the Committee on Small Business, which were enacted 

into law during the 110th Congress. 

1. [110th] H.R. 434: An act to provide for an additional temporary extension of programs under the Small Business Act and 

the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 through July 31, 2007, 

and for other purposes. 

Sponsor: Rep Chabot, Steve [OH–1] (introduced 1/12/2007) Cosponsors (1) 

Committees: House Small Business; Senate Small Business and 

Entrepreneurship 

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 110–4 

2. [110th] H.R. 3206: To provide for an additional temporary extension of programs under the Small Business Act and the Small 

Business Investment Act of 1958 through December 15, 2007, and 

for other purposes. 

Sponsor: Rep Vela ́ zquez, Nydia M. [NY–12] (introduced 7/27/ 

2007) Cosponsors (1) 

Committees: House Small Business 

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 110–57 

3. [110th] H.R. 3221: A bill to provide needed housing reform and 

for other purposes. 

Sponsor: Rep Pelosi, Nancy [CA–8] (introduced 7/30/2007) Cosponsors (18) 

Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Education and 

Labor; House Foreign Affairs; House Small Business; House 

Science and Technology; House Agriculture; House Oversight and 

Government Reform; House Natural Resources; House Transportation and Infrastructure; House Armed Services 

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 110–289 [GPO: 

Text, PDF] 

Note: Previously H.R. 3221 was the New Direction for Energy 

Independence, National Security, and Consumer Protection Act. 

Omnibus energy legislation was enacted in H.R. 6, which became 

Public Law 110–140 on 12/19/2007. 

4. [110th] H.R. 4252: To provide for an additional temporary extension of programs under the Small Business Act and the Small 

Business Investment Act of 1958 through May 23, 2008, and for 

other purposes. 

Sponsor: Rep Chabot, Steve [OH–1] (introduced 12/4/2007) Cosponsors (None) 

Committees: House Small Business 

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 110–136 


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5. [110th] H.R. 4253: To improve and expand small business assistance programs for veterans of the armed forces and military reservists, and for other purposes. 

Sponsor: Rep Altmire, Jason [PA–4] (introduced 12/4/2007) Cosponsors (3) 

Committees: House Small Business 

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 110–186 

6. H.R.2419 

Title: To provide for the continuation of agricultural programs 

through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes. 

Sponsor: Rep Peterson, Collin C. [MN–7] (introduced 5/22/2007) 

Cosponsors (None) 

Related Bills: H. Res. 574, H. Res. 1189, H.J. Res. 88, H.R. 5957, H.R. 6124, S. 163, S. 2302 

Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 110–234 

House Reports: 110–256 Part 1; Latest Conference Report: 110– 

627 (in Congressional Record H3409–3700) 

Note: The House and Senate passed H.R. 2419 over veto, enacting 14 of 15 farm bill titles into law. The trade title (title III) was 

inadvertently excluded from the enrolled bill. To remedy the situation, both chambers re-passed the farm bill conference agreement 

(including the trade title) as H.R. 6124, again over veto. Upon its 

enactment H.R. 6124, in section 4, repealed Public Law 110–234. 


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APPENDIX II—COMMITTEE PUBLICATIONS 

PART A—COMMITTEE HEARINGS 

HEARINGS

January 2007 

January 31, 2007 

Full Committee Organizational Meeting 

February 2007 

February 8, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The Small Business Administration’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2008.’’ 

February 14, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The Small Business Administration’s Response to the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes.’’ 

March 2007 

March 1, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Increasing Access to Capital for 

Our Nation’s Small Businesses.’’ 

March 7, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Advancing the Innovation Agenda: 

The Perspective of the Technology and Telecommunications Industry.’’ 

March 8, 2007 

Full Committee Legislative Hearing on: ‘‘Disaster Relief and Access to Capital.’’ 

March 14, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Challenges and Solutions to Health 

Insurance Coverage for Small Businesses.’’ 

March 21, 2007 

Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology Hearing on: ‘‘Implementation of the Women’s Procurement Program and Federal 

Government Efforts in Contracting with Women-Owned Businesses.’’ 

March 22, 2007 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘The New Hidden Tax on Small 

Business, on 3% Tax Withholding.’’ 

March 28, 2007 

Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care & Trade hearing on: 

‘‘The Value of Health IT to Solo and Small Medical Practices.’’ 

March 29, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The Impact of Proposed Patent Reform Legislation on Small Businesses.’’ 


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April 2007 

April 11, 2007 

Full Committee Field Hearing on: ‘‘The Impact of New Market 

Tax Credits, the Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) Program, and 504 Program on Urban Communities.’’ Cincinnati, OH 

April 12, 2007 

Full Committee Field Hearing: ‘‘Participation of Small Businesses in Hurricane Katrina Recovery.’’ New Orleans, LA 

April 19, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Expanding Small Businesses’ Access to Federal Contracts.’’ 

April 26, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Closing the Tax Gap Without Creating Burdens for Small Businesses.’’ 

May 2007 

May 2, 2007 

Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight, Hearing on: ‘‘Is 

the Veterans Corporation Prepared to Provide Entrepreneurial Development Assistance to Service Men and Women Returning From 

Iraq & Afghanistan?’’ 

May 3, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The Impacts of Renewable Energy 

Production on Small Businesses in Rural America.’’ 

May 9, 2007 

Subcommittee on Rural & Urban Entrepreneurship Hearing on: 

‘‘Maximizing the Value of Broadband Services to Rural Communities.’’ 

May 10, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Immigration Policies and Their Impact on Small Business.’’ 

May 16, 2007 

Full Committee Legislative Hearing on: ‘‘Energy, Women’s Business Centers, Veterans’ Business, and Entrepreneurial Development.’’ 

May 17, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Liability Reform and Small Business.’’ 

May 24, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Expanding Small Business Health 

Insurance Coverage Using the Private Reinsurance Market.’’ 

June 2007 

June 5, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404: Will 

the SEC’s and PCAOB’s New Standards Lower Compliance Costs 

for Small Companies?’’ 

June 6, 2007 

Subcommittee on Finance and Tax Hearing on: ‘‘Data Security: 

Small Business Perspectives.’’ 

June 7, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Family Farmer and Rural Small 

Business Priorities for the 2007 Farm Bill.’’ 

June 13, 2007 


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Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘U.S. Trade Policy and Small Business.’’ 

June 14, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The SBA’s Microloan Program.’’ 

June 20, 2007 

Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology Hearing on: ‘‘Meeting the Workforce Demands of Small Bio-Energy Businesses.’’ 

June 21, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The SBA’s Investment Programs.’’ 

June 28, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Assessing the Impact of the Copyright Royalty Board Decision to Increase Royalty Rates on Recording Artists and Webcasters.’’ 

July 2007 

July 11 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Small Businesses at the Forefront 

of the Green Revolution: What More Needs to Be Done to Keep 

Them Here?’’ 

July 12 

Full Committee Legislative Hearing to: ‘‘Improve the SBA’s 

Microloan and Trade Programs.’’ 

July 18 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Medicaid Drug Reimbursements: 

Are Cuts Bad Medicine for Small Businesses and Beneficiaries?’’ 

July 23 

Full Committee Field Hearing on: ‘‘Challenges Facing Women 

Small Business Owners.’’ Philadelphia, PA. 

July 25 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Competitive Bidding for Clinical 

Lab Services: Where’s It Heading and What Small Businesses Can 

Expect.’’ 

August 2007 

August 1 

Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade Hearing 

on: ‘‘Ensuring Prompt Payment for Small Health Care Providers.’’ 

August 2 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Disaster Planning and Recovery: 

Are We Ready for Another Katrina?’’ 

August 23 

Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight Field Hearing on: 

‘‘The SBA’s Response to the July 5 Floods in Beaver County, Pennsylvania.’’ Aliquippa, PA 

August 30 

Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship Field Hearing on: ‘‘How Can Small Businesses Best Address the Healthcare 

Needs of Their Employees?’’ Asheville, NC 

August 31 

Full Committee Field Hearing on: ‘‘The Cost and Availability of 

Energy and the Effect on Small Business.’’ Johnson City, TN 

September 2007 

September 6, 2007 


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Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The Small Business Administration’s Investment and Surety Bond Programs.’’ 

September 19, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The Small Business Administration’s Contracting Programs.’’ 

September 26, 2007 

Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology Hearing on: 

‘‘Small Business Renewable Energy Tax Incentive Possibilities.’’ 

September 27, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Legislation to Provide Funding Levels.’’ 

October 2007 

October 3, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The Internet Tax Moratorium: The 

Potential Negative Impacts on Small Businesses of Allowing Moratorium to Expire.’’ 

October 4, 2007 

Full Committee Legislative Hearing on: ‘‘The Small Business Administration’s Contracting Programs.’’ 

October 10, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The Impact of the 700 Megahertz 

Wireless Spectrum Auction on Small Business.’’ 

October 17, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Small Business Energy Priorities.’’ 

October 24, 2007 

Subcommittee on Finance and Tax Hearing on: ‘‘Pension Parity: 

Addressing the Inequities between Retirement Plan Options for 

Small and Large Businesses.’’ 

October 25, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Health Insurer Consolidation—The 

Impact on Small Business.’’ 

October 31, 2007 

Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight Hearing on: 

‘‘Competitive Bidding for Durable Medical Equipment: Will Small 

Suppliers Be Able to Compete?’’ 

November 2007 

November 1, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Evaluating the Impact of Pending 

Free Trade Agreements Upon U.S. Small Businesses.’’ 

November 7, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The State of the Small Business 

Economy.’’ 

November 8, 2007 

Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade Hearing 

on: ‘‘Medicare’s Reimbursement Cuts: The Potential Impact on Solo 

and Small Group Practitioners and the Businesses they Run.’’ 

November 14, 2007 

Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship Hearing 

on: ‘‘Program Harmonization in Rural America—How the Small 

Business Administration (SBA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Can Work Together to Better Serve Small Businesses.’’ 


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November 15, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Reducing the Regulatory Burden on 

Small Business: Improving the Regulatory Flexibility Act.’’ 

December 2007 

December 6, 2007 

Full Committee Legislative Hearing to: ‘‘Improve the RegFlex 

Act.’’ 

December 12, 2007 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404: New 

Evidence on the Costs for Small Businesses.’’ 

January 2008 

January 16, 2008 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The SBA’s Progress in Implementing the Women’s Procurement Program.’’ 

January 17, 2008 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Oversight of the U.S. Export-Import Bank’s Implementation of its Small Business Mandate.’’ 

January 23, 2008 

Full Committee Hearing on: Health Care: ‘‘Limited Health Care 

Options for Small Businesses in the Small Group Market.’’ 

January 29, 2008 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘SBIR: America’s National Technology Development Incubator.’’ 

February 2008 

February 7, 2008 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘The Small Business Administration’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2009.’’ 

February 14, 2008 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Business Activity Taxes and Their 

Impact on Small Businesses.’’ 

February 13, 2008: 

Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight hearing on: 

‘‘SBIR: Advancing Medical Breakthroughs.’’ 

February 26, 2008: 

Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology hearing on: ‘‘Plain 

Language in Paperwork—The Benefits to Small Business.’’ 

February 26, 2008: 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘State Strategies to Expand Health 

Insurance Coverage for Small Businesses.’’ 

February 28, 2008: 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Improving the Paperwork Reduction Act For Small Businesses.’’ 

March 2008 

March 5, 2008 

Subcommittee on Finance and Tax Hearing on: ‘‘Improving the 

SBA’s Access to Capital Programs for Our Nation’s Small Businesses.’’ 

March 6, 2008 

Full Committee Hearing on: ‘‘Are New Procurement Methods 

Beneficial to Small Business Contractors?’’ 


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March 12, 2008 

Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship Hearing 

on: ‘‘Oversight of the Entrepreneurial Development Programs Implemented By the Small Business Administration and National 

Veterans Business Development Corporation.’’ 

March 13, 2008 

Full Committee Legislative Hearing to: ‘‘Reauthorize the Small 

Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program.’’ 

March 25, 2008 

Full Committee Field Hearing on: ‘‘The Impact Of The 2006– 

2007 Drought on Georgia’s Economy.’’ 

April 2008 

April 3, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘The Role of Credit Cards in Small 

Business Financing.’’ 

April 9, 2008 

Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight hearing on: ‘‘The 

Impact of Increasing Gas Prices on Small Businesses.’’ 

April 10, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Modernizing the Tax Code: Updating the Internal Revenue Code to Help Small Businesses Stimulate 

the Economy.’’ 

April 16, 2008 

Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology hearing on: ‘‘Ensuring Small Businesses Have Fair Access to Federal Contracts.’’ 

April 17, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Maintaining Public Lands for Hunting, Fishing, Ranching and Small Businesses.’’ 

April 23, 2008 

Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade hearing 

on: ‘‘Minority and Hispanic Participation in the Federal Workforce 

and the Impact on the Small Business Community.’’ 

April 24, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘The Role of Small Businesses in 

Stimulating the Economy.’’ 

April 30, 2008 

Subcommittee on Finance and Tax hearing on: ‘‘The Effect of the 

Credit Crunch on Small Business Access to Capital.’’ 

May 2008 

May 1, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Rail Transportation Access for 

Small Businesses and Family Farmers.’’ 

May 7, 2008 

Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology hearing on: ‘‘The 

DTV Transition and Small Businesses: Small Firms Contributing 

to a Big Change.’’ 

May 8, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Medicare Physician Fee Cuts: Can 

Small Practices Survive.’’ 

May 14, 2008 


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Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade hearing 

on: ‘‘The Impact of CMS Regulations and Programs on Small 

Health Care Providers.’’ 

May 15, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Food Prices and Small Businesses.’’ 

May 21, 2008 

Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship hearing on: 

‘‘Competitive Bidding for Durable Medical Equipment.’’ 

May 22, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘RESPA and Its Impact on Small 

Business.’’ 

June 2008 

June 5, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘The Housing Crisis Identifying Tax 

Incentives to Stimulate the Economy.’’ 

June 11, 2008 

Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship hearing on: 

‘‘Second Generation Biofuels: The New Frontier for Small Businesses.’’ 

June 12, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Electronic Payments Tax Reporting: 

Another Tax Burden for Small Businesses.’’ 

June 18, 2008 

Subcommittee on Finance and Tax hearing on: ‘‘S-Corps: Recommended Reforms That Promote Parity, Growth and Development for Small Businesses.’’ 

June 19, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Small Business Exports in the Current Economic Climate.’’ 

June 25, 2008 

Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade hearing 

on: ‘‘The Impact of Online Advertising on Small Firms.’’ 

June 26, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Grounded: How the Air Transportation Crisis Is Hurting Entrepreneurs and the Economy.’’ 

July 2008 

July 10, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘The Role of Green Technologies in 

Spurring Economic Growth.’’ 

July 16, 2008 

Subcommittee on Contracting & Technology hearing on: ‘‘Ensuring Continuity of Care for Veteran Amputees: The Role of Small 

Prosthetic Practices.’’ 

July 17, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Small Business Administration’s 

(SBA) Contracting Programs and Recent GAO Examination of Programs.’’ 

July 23, 2008 

Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight hearing on: ‘‘The 

Impact of Predators in Long-Term Care on Small Business Operators.’’ 

July 24, 2008 


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Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Economic Stimulus for Small Business: A Look Back and Assessing Need for Additional Relief.’’ 

July 30, 2008 

Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade hearing 

on: ‘‘Regulatory Burdens on Small Firms: What Rules Need Reform?’’ 

July 31, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Cost and Confidentiality: The Unforeseen Challenges of Electronic Health Records in Small Specialty Practices.’’ 

September 2008 

September 11, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Examining Expiring Tax Incentives 

and the Needs of Small Businesses.’’ 

September 17, 2008 

Subcommittee on Finance and Tax hearing on: ‘‘Disaster Savings 

Accounts: Protections for Small Businesses during a Disaster.’’ 

September 18, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Making Health Care Reform Work 

for Small Business.’’ 

September 24, 2008 

Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology hearing on: ‘‘Small 

Business Recovery from the Midwest Disasters of 2008.’’ 

September 25, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Small Business Competition Policy: 

Are Markets Open for Entrepreneurs?’’ 

October 2008 

October 28, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Creating Opportunities for Small 

Businesses in an Economic Recovery.’’ 

November 2008 

November 20, 2008 

Full Committee hearing on: ‘‘Review of Recent Federal Efforts to 

Improve Credit Conditions for Small Businesses.’’ 

December 2008 

December 8, 2008 

Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship, North 

Carolina Field hearing on: ‘‘Examining the Effect of Industrial Contamination on Small Businesses and Their Surrounding Communities, as Well as Potential Solutions.’’ 

Total: 116 

Full Committee: 66 

Subcommittee: 33 

Field Hearings: 8 


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PART B—COMMITTEE PRINTS 

There are no committee prints in this Congress. 

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smartinez on PROD1PC64 with REPORTS