Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB248

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 1/31/23
• Refer: 5/3/23
• Report Pass: 5/8/23
• Engrossed: 5/8/23
• Refer: 5/10/23

Caption

In Commonwealth Financing Authority, establishing the Veteran-owned Business Loan Guarantee Program.

Impact

The legislation is expected to significantly impact state laws regarding financial assistance programs. It allocates $5 million from the Second Stage Loan Program to support the loan guarantees under this new initiative, highlighting the state's commitment to veteran support and the economic development of veteran-owned enterprises. The approach taken by this bill may stimulate job creation and retention by enabling veteran entrepreneurs to secure necessary funding that may otherwise be inaccessible under traditional lending practices.

Summary

Senate Bill 248 establishes the Veteran-owned Business Loan Guarantee Program in Pennsylvania, aimed at providing loan guarantees to commercial lending institutions that support veteran-owned businesses. The program is designed to assist these businesses by mitigating the risks involved in lending, thus promoting their growth and sustainability within the state's economy. By enabling financial institutions to issue loans backed by state guarantees, the bill seeks to enhance access to capital for veterans transitioning into entrepreneurship.

Sentiment

Overall, there appears to be a positive sentiment surrounding SB248. The bill was unanimously passed with a vote of 24-0 in the Senate Appropriations Committee, indicating strong bipartisan support for measures that enhance opportunities for veteran-owned businesses. Supporters view this program as an essential step in addressing the unique challenges veterans face when starting and maintaining a business.

Contention

While the bill received broad support, some concerns could arise regarding the administration of the program and the criteria for loan approval. Opponents may question whether the funding allocated is adequate to meet the potential demand from veteran-owned businesses, and if the oversight mechanisms are sufficiently robust to ensure that the guarantees effectively promote the intended economic benefits without resulting in undue risk to the state.