Bill > S1093

This bill amends the Small Business Act to enhance the Office of Rural Affairs (ORA) within the Small Business Administration (SBA). The bill establishes that the ORA will be led by an Assistant Administrator appointed by the SBA Administrator and classified as a Senior Executive Service position. The Assistant Administrator will have expanded responsibilities, including hosting outreach events for rural small businesses across different U.S. regions, coordinating with various federal and state agencies, and inviting representatives from SBA district offices and resource partners to participate in these events. The bill mandates increased interagency cooperation, particularly between the SBA and the Department of Agriculture, to improve support for rural small businesses by identifying program overlaps, exploring opportunities for innovation, supporting Native American businesses, and providing technical assistance for exportation and procurement. Additionally, the bill requires the SBA to submit an annual public report to congressional committees detailing the Office of Rural Affairs' activities, budget, staff, outreach events, lending programs, and collaborative efforts. The goal is to create more coordinated and comprehensive support for small businesses in rural areas, addressing their unique economic challenges and opportunities.

Business and Industry

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1093/all-info