[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 74 (Thursday, May 15, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E755]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 15, 2014

  Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, this a National Small Business Week and 
I rise to recognize the contributions of small businesses in my 
congressional district and across the country.
  With more than half of Americans either owning or working for a small 
business, it is clear these companies are a vital part of our nation's 
fabric.
  Every day, small firms and their employees across every sector and 
industry are working to grow and become stronger.
  When they do, we all benefit from their innovations, their job-
creating power, and their ability to make the U.S. more competitive 
globally.
  That why I support the Democratic agenda to help small businesses and 
entrepreneurs startup, grow, and create jobs.
  ``This includes supporting tax credits to help small businesses hire 
new employees; immigration reform, which will provided a solution for 
those businesses facing a maze of problems when hiring immigrant 
workers: and expanding financing options for entrepreneurs, especially 
in low- and moderate-income communities.
  We must also oppose cuts to job training programs that help meet 
American businesses' workforce needs. Lastly, we must include working 
on a long-term extension of the Highway Trust Fund, which is critical 
for small construction firms across the nation.
  Mr. Speaker, small businesses and entrepreneurs impact our lives ever 
day and it is fitting that we recognize their contributions to the 
economy and our country during National Small Business Week.
  Whether it is opening a new storefront, training workers, or 
sponsoring activities in our cities and towns, we have many reasons to 
thank small businesses.
  This week we do so, and recognize these entrepreneurs not only for 
the contributions that they have already made, but also for their 
future work to strengthen our local communities.
  In recognition of all that small businesses do for our communities, 
from providing conveniently located goods and services to sponsoring 
local events and organizations, I urge all Americans to take this 
opportunity to patronize the diverse businesses in their communities to 
demonstrate to them our continued appreciation and support.

                          ____________________