If enacted, HB 2931 would lead to the cessation of SBA operations in sanctuary jurisdictions during the relocation process. The legislation mandates that the Administrator publicly determines whether an office is in a sanctuary jurisdiction and prohibits the establishment of new SBA offices within these areas. This can potentially impact small businesses in these jurisdictions that rely on SBA resources, creating challenges for access to federal assistance and funding.
Summary
House Bill 2931, titled the 'Save SBA from Sanctuary Cities Act', directs the Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) to relocate certain SBA offices located in sanctuary jurisdictions. The bill defines a sanctuary jurisdiction as any state or political subdivision that restricts the sharing of information regarding citizenship or immigration status, and allows for various exceptions to this rule. The primary intent of the bill is to remove federal resources from these jurisdictions and ensure that SBA operations align with federal policies on immigration enforcement.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include the implications for small businesses in sanctuary jurisdictions, which may find themselves cut off from vital support systems. Critics argue that the bill could exacerbate hardships for small business owners and their employees in these areas while supporters maintain that it reinforces federal law and prioritizes the enforcement of immigration policies. The potential impact on job creation and local economic health in sanctuary cities is also a significant concern among opponents of the bill.