I believe that standing up for Iowa’s small businesses is critical to strengthening Iowa’s economy. I’m working hard in Congress for small businesses’ needs through my work on the House Small Business Committee. From healthcare to taxes to technology, today’s entrepreneurs face unique challenges and obstacles to success, and I’ll be a strong voice in Congress for their needs.

 Action on Small Businesses

Sponsorship:

• H.R. 1873, the Small Business Fairness in Contracting Act
• H.R. 2359, the SBA Entrepreneurial Development Programs Act of 2007

Co-sponsorship:

• H.R. 1361, RECOVER Act
• H.R. 2284, would amend the Small Business Act to expand and improve the assistance provided by Small Business Development Centers to Indian tribe members, Alaska natives, and Native Hawaiians
• HR 2366, SBA Veterans' Programs Act of 2007
• HR 2397, SBA Women's Business Programs Act of 2007
• HR 2992, SBA Trade Programs Act of 2007

Committee Hearings:

• February 7, 2008--"SBA's Budget for FY09"
• January 29, 2008--"SBIR: America's National Technology Development Incubator"
• January 23, 2008--"Limited Health Care Options for Small Business in the Small Group Market"
• January 17, 2008--"Oversight of the U.S. Export-Import Bank's Implementation of its Small Business Mandate"
• January 16, 2008--"SBA's Progress in Implementing the Women's Procurement Program"

District Witnesses:

• March 21, 2007--Brought Karyl Smith of Waverly to testify before the Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology
• July 18, 2007--Brought Matt Osterhaus of Maquoketa to testify before the House Small Business Committee
• July 25, 2007--Mary Jo Bonifas of Dubuque to testify before the House Small Business Committee