Small Business Advocacy Improvements Act of 2023 This bill expands the primary functions and additional duties of the Office of Advocacy of the Small Business Administration to include (1) examining the role of small businesses in the international economy, and (2) representing the views and interests of small businesses before foreign governments and international entities to contribute to regulatory and trade initiatives that may affect small businesses.
Impact
The implications of HB 399 are significant for small businesses as it would formally expand the SBA's advocacy role to encompass international trade matters. This is particularly relevant given the increasing globalization of many industries and the need for small business owners to navigate foreign regulations and trade agreements. Supporters argue that these changes will facilitate improved communication and negotiation on behalf of small businesses, allowing them to compete more effectively on a global stage. As a result, it could lead to a more favorable regulatory environment that encourages small business growth and international expansion.
Summary
House Bill 399, also known as the Small Business Advocacy Improvements Act of 2023, aims to enhance the functions and responsibilities of the Office of Advocacy within the Small Business Administration (SBA). The bill seeks to amend existing legislation to include a more explicit focus on the role of small businesses in the international economy, thereby addressing the complexities faced by these businesses in global markets. Additionally, it proposes that the Office represent the interests of small businesses in front of foreign governments and international bodies, ensuring that their perspectives are taken into account in regulatory and trade-related initiatives.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 399 has generally been positive, particularly among small business advocates who see value in bolstering the SBA's capacity to engage with international issues. Proponents contend that enhancing the SBA's functions in this respect will promote stronger advocacy for small businesses, aligning federal support with the challenges they face in the international arena. However, some critics may voice concerns regarding the practical application of these changes and whether the additional responsibilities might dilute the Office's focus on domestic issues.
Contention
One notable point of contention is whether expanding the SBA's scope to include international representation could distract from its core functions related to small businesses within the U.S. Some may argue that the Office should remain focused on domestic regulatory challenges rather than engaging in potentially complex international negotiations. This raises questions about resource allocation and whether the Office is equipped to handle the additional responsibilities effectively. Balancing domestic priorities with international advocacy will be a crucial consideration as the bill moves through the legislative process.
Small Business Advocacy Improvements Act of 2025This bill expands the primary functions and additional duties of the Office of Advocacy of the Small Business Administration to include (1) examining the role of small businesses in the international economy, and (2) representing the views and interests of small businesses before foreign governments and international entities to contribute to regulatory and trade initiatives that may affect small businesses.
Expanding Access to Capital for Rural Job Creators Act This bill requires the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation within the Securities and Exchange Commission to report on issues encountered by rural-area small businesses.
Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Improvements Act This bill modifies the rulemaking requirements and procedures of federal agencies under the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 and the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, including how agencies consider economic impact with respect to small entities. Specifically, the bill requires agencies to consider the direct, and the reasonably foreseeable indirect, economic effect of a rule on small entities when determining whether a rule is likely to have a significant economic impact. Further, the regulatory flexibility analysis for rules with a significant economic impact must include a detailed description of alternatives to a proposed rule that minimize any adverse significant economic impact or maximize any beneficial significant economic impact on small entities. The bill also expands the types of agency actions (e.g., revisions to land management plans) that are subject to a regulatory impact analysis. The bill removes the authority for an agency to waive the regulatory flexibility analysis requirements and requires the Office of Advocacy of the Small Business Administration to issue rules for compliance with such requirements. The bill also modifies the procedures for the (1) gathering of comments for a proposed rule, (2) periodic review of agency rules, and (3) judicial review of final rules.
STEP Improvement Act of 2023 This bill reauthorizes through FY2028 the Small Business Administration's (SBA) State Trade Expansion Program, which provides foreign trade assistance to small businesses, and it revises provisions related to the administration of the program. Specifically, the SBA must establish a time frame for, and provide certain information related to, the application process, and it must conduct an annual survey to solicit feedback on the program. The SBA must collect data on certain performance metrics such as the (1) total number of small businesses assisted by the program, (2) total dollar amount of export sales by participating small businesses, and (3) number of small businesses that have created new jobs through their participation in the program. The bill also requires applicants for participation to include a budget plan that outlines their intended use of funds awarded under the program.