Bill > S1698

This bill amends the Small Business Act to improve disaster response and planning coordination by the Small Business Administration (SBA). Specifically, the bill allows resource partners (such as Small Business Development Centers, SCORE, and Women's Business Centers) to provide advice and assistance to small businesses affected by a disaster, even outside their typical service area, for up to two years after a disaster is declared. The SBA Administrator can extend this period if needed. The bill requires resource partners to coordinate with local partners and maintain services in their home areas. Additionally, the bill mandates that the SBA make disaster-related information available to resource partners to help amplify public awareness about disaster loan applications. The legislation also updates disaster planning requirements to explicitly include coordination with resource partners, federal agencies, state, local, and regional authorities. The goal is to enhance support for small businesses during and after disaster situations by improving communication, information sharing, and assistance mechanisms across different organizational partners.

Business and Industry

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1698/all-info