[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 73 (Friday, May 21, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E960]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

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                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 20, 2004

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, this is National 
Small Business Week; a time to celebrate and recognize America's small 
business entrepreneurs.
  I honor our nation's 23 million small businesses and recognize their 
vital contribution to our nation. I want to especially thank my good 
friend, Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez from New York and applaud my 
House colleagues for their hard work on behalf of small business. 
Additionally, I thank the many small business owners for their numerous 
contributions.
  Small business is the backbone of our state and national economy. 
Unfortunately, many small businesses are suffering in these trying 
financial times. Government contracts and spending are a vital source 
of revenue, and have become even more so during this current economic 
slump. Small businesses lack high powered lobbyists, therefore it is 
imperative that all levels of government continue to pay diligent 
attention to small business in their purchasing and contracts. It is 
important that we ensure that businesses of all sizes have access to 
government contracts regardless of their ability to buy influence.
  As Congress continues its work, I will dedicate myself to assuring 
that good news is on the way for small businesses. Both our federal and 
state government have an obligation to aid, assist and protect the 
interests of small businesses. The future of America depends on it. I 
will continue to strongly support federal programs that benefit small 
businesses.

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