For many Americans, the ability to start their own business means the ability to pursue their dreams. Starting a business provides new entrepreneurs with the tools for economic empowerment and independence. Access to entrepreneurship also provides hope to many who would like to improve their lives and those of their families. And hope, in turn, leads to a commitment to the future. Indeed, small businesses embody the commitment, energy and faith that are the hallmarks of the American entrepreneurial spirit.
Small enterprises are also an invaluable source of job experience for America's workers.
Small businesses also hire a larger proportion of, and thus give significant employment opportunities to, younger and older workers, women workers, and those who work part-time. My goal, as Chairman of the Committee, is to ensure that these opportunities continue to be available to all Americans hoping to be entrepreneurs. I also want to ensure that small and family-owned businesses are equipped to compete effectively with larger companies, and guard against unnecessary, burdensome government regulation of small enterprises. In light of these goals, the Committee on Small Business has supported a number of crucial initiatives since I became Chairman in 1995. The Red Tape Reduction Act, too, helps put small businesses on a level playing field with larger companies by requiring Federal agencies to consider the economic impact that new regulations may have on small businesses.