WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Committee on Small Business is holding a full committee hearing titled “Driving Economic Growth: SBA Lending Programs and the Vital Role of Community Banks.”

Chairman Roger Williams’ opening statement as prepared for delivery:

Welcome to today’s hearing, “Driving Economic Growth: SBA Lending Programs and the Vital Role of Community Banks”

I want to thank 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.

I strongly believe that starting a small business captures the true meaning of the American Dream. Part of what makes America so great is that anyone from any background can go out on a limb with a dream or an idea to provide a new service or product to the marketplace.

Our economy is dependent on small businesses, as they are our nation’s largest job creators. It is our job here in Washington to be Main Street’s biggest advocate and ensure they have the tools to succeed. In today’s hearing, we will be exploring the triumphs and challenges of small businesses and the community lenders that provide them support.

Under the Biden Administration, Main Street America endured stifling regulations, record inflation, and high interest rates that hindered the ability of small employers to hire workers, increase wages, and reinvest back into their businesses to spur growth.

Thanks to the return of President Trump, a wave of pro-business optimism swept over the small business community. This new Administration has committed to not only cutting regulations across the board—for small businesses and community banks alike— but also reducing taxes and preserving the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

Failing to renew the small business provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would impact small employers in every corner, and limit their ability to stay competitive and preserve countless community jobs.

Throughout this Congress and alongside the Trump Administration, we will once again prioritize policies that support Main Street America by creating an environment where small businesses can thrive, and the full potential of community banks can be unleashed. 

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

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