[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 107 (Thursday, June 25, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E624]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            NATIVE AMERICAN ENTREPRENEURIAL OPPORTUNITY ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                              HON. ED CASE

                               of hawaii

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 23, 2026

  Mr. CASE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Native American 
Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act, introduced by my colleague, 
Representative Sharice Davids of Kansas, and co-sponsored by me.
  The Small Business Administration's Office of Native American Affairs 
works with Indian Tribes and Native Hawaiian Organizations to provide 
entrepreneurial development, contracting and capital access and to 
support the establishment and expansion of small businesses owned or 
controlled by our Nation's indigenous peoples, including Native 
Hawaiians. It helps our Nation remain focused on our Native American, 
Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian communities and their vital 
contributions to our national and local economies.
  This bill will provide formal, statutory authority for the office so 
it can continue its efforts. Statutorily authorizing the Office of 
Native American Affairs will ensure continued access to federal 
programs and services that support entrepreneurs from our indigenous 
peoples across the country and help them launch and grow small 
businesses, and in turn, promote economic development in their 
communities.
  This bill will especially help businesses in my home state of Hawaii. 
Small businesses are the lifeblood of Hawaii, and it is essential to 
equip Native Hawaiian-owned small businesses with the tools and 
resources they need to start, grow and thrive in our communities.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in passing this bill and supporting 
small businesses owned by our Nation's indigenous peoples.

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