[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 114 (Wednesday, July 27, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1427]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM EXTENSION AND REFORM ACT OF 2011

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                               speech of

                          HON. GARY C. PETERS

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 26, 2011

  Mr. PETERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for 
reauthorizing the Small Business Administration, which helps countless 
entrepreneurs receive the training and access the capital they need to 
start and expand small businesses and create jobs. While I support the 
reauthorization of these vital programs, I am concerned with provisions 
in the underlying bill that would prevent some entrepreneurs from 
obtaining vital assistance.
  Specifically, H.R. 2608 singles out the e200 Emerging Leaders program 
for elimination, which targets entrepreneurs in underserved communities 
across the country like metro Detroit that have been severely impacted 
in these tough economic times. This program targets businesses in inner 
cities and economically hard-hit areas that show a high potential for 
growth, providing them with the network, know-how and resources they 
need to build a sustainable, growing business that promotes economic 
development within their communities. This program has a proven track 
record. Small businesses that complete the program increase their 
revenues and create jobs where they are needed most.
  In addition to eliminating this vital program, this bill prevents the 
Small Business Administration from carrying out any succeeding program 
with similar goals. While I support the underlying reauthorization of 
the Small Business Administration, I strongly disagree with the 
elimination of the e200 Emerging Leaders program, and the prohibition 
of future initiatives that help small businesses thrive in some of the 
areas hardest hit by the recession.

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