WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Committee on Small Business is holding a full committee hearing titled “Hope on the Horizon: Prioritizing Small Business Growth in the 119th Congress.”

Chairman Roger Williams’ opening statement as prepared for delivery:

Welcome to the first Committee on Small Business hearing of the 119th Congress.

I want to extend my gratitude to our witnesses for being here today. I know many of you traveled to share your experiences and perspectives, and we deeply value your time and your voice.

The Committee on Small Business is proud to represent the hardworking men and women of Main Street America here in Washington.

Our mission today—and every day—is to listen, learn, and better understand the challenges and opportunities impacting the American people, particularly those who build and sustain small businesses nationwide.

Small business owners are not just entrepreneurs—they are job creators, community leaders, and the backbone of economic opportunity for millions of Americans.

Small business ownership reflects the very essence of the American Dream: the opportunity for any person, from any background, to take a risk, work hard, and build a better future for themselves and their families.

Our economy depends on small businesses and the workers they employ, from local manufacturers to retail employees, service workers, and bankers. They are the heartbeat of our economy, shaping their communities through their dedication, creativity, and resilience.

Over the past four years, Main Street America has faced historic challenges: stifling regulations, record-breaking inflation, supply chain disruptions, high interest rates, and a national labor shortage. Despite these challenges, the men and women of Main Street have proven time and again their strength and ability to adapt. These individuals embody the grit, innovation, and perseverance that make this nation great.

This Congress, alongside President Trump, we will once again prioritize policies that support Main Street America, strengthen economic opportunity, and create an environment where small businesses can grow and create jobs.

Today we celebrate the critical role each small business plays in building and sustaining their communities. We look forward to hearing from our witnesses on how increased small business optimism and a promising economic landscape will help Main Street America.

There is hope on the horizon for small businesses thanks to President Trump’s pro-business commitment to lowering taxes and cutting regulations. It is time to turn the page on the past four years and focus on the future for Main Street America under President Trump.

I wanted this hearing to be the first of the 119th Congress so we could shine a light on the great contributions and sacrifices of Main Street America—those who dedicate their days, resources, and lives to make our nation strong.

Before we proceed, I would like to extend a warm welcome to the new Members joining our Committee. We are thrilled to have you as part of our team and look forward to working with you this Congress. As Chairman, I’m eager to work alongside all of you as we shape policies that put the needs of Main Street America first.

With that, I will yield to our distinguished Ranking Member from New York, Ms. Velázquez.

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