[House Report 110-926]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]



110th Congress                                                   Report
                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
 2d Session                                                     110-926
_______________________________________________________________________

                                     

                                                 Union Calendar No. 599


                         REPORT ON THE ACTIVITY

                                 of the

                      COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS

                                for THE

                       ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS






January 2, 2009.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the 
              State of the Union and ordered to be printed
                         LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL

                              ----------                              

                          House of Representatives,
                               Committee on Small Business,
                                   Washington, DC, January 2, 2009.
Hon. Lorraine C. Miller,
Clerk, House of Representatives,
Washington, DC.
    Dear Ms. Miller: Pursuant to clause 1(d) of rule XI of the 
Rules of the House of Representatives for the 110th Congress, I 
present herewith a report on the activity of the Committee on 
Small Business for the 110th Congress, including the 
Committee's review and study of legislation within its 
jurisdiction, and the oversight activities undertaken by the 
Committee.
            Yours truly,
                                        Nydia M. Velazquez,
                                                        Chairwoman.


                            C O N T E N T S

                              ----------                              
                                                                   Page
Letter of Transmittal............................................   III
Jurisdiction.....................................................     1
Rules of the Committee...........................................     2
Membership and Organization......................................    11
Legislative and Oversight Activities.............................    15
Full Committee...................................................    43
Subcommittee on Finance and Tax..................................    63
Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology.......................    65
Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care, and Trade..............    69
Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship.................    75
Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight.....................    77
Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress............................    81
Implementation of the Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress......    93
Appendix I--Committee Legislation: Committee Reports and Public 
  Laws...........................................................   113
Appendix II--Committee Publications: Committee Hearings and 
  Committee......................................................   117
Prints...........................................................   120


                                                 Union Calendar No. 599
110th Congress                                                   Report
                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
 2d Session                                                     110-926

======================================================================



 
REPORT ON THE ACTIVITY OF THE COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS FOR THE 110TH 
                                CONGRESS

                                _______
                                

January 2, 2009.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the 
              State of the Union and ordered to be printed

                                _______
                                

 Ms. Velazquez, from the Committee on Small Business, submitted to the 
                 Committee on the Budget the following

                              R E P O R T

    Clause 1(d) of rule XI of the Rules of the House of 
Representatives for the 110th Congress requires that each 
standing committee, not later than January 2 of each odd-
numbered year, submit to the House a report on the activities 
of that committee, including separate sections summarizing the 
legislative and oversight activities of that committee during 
that Congress.

              JURISDICTION AND SPECIAL OVERSIGHT FUNCTION

    Clause 1(p) of rule X of the Rules of the House of 
Representatives for the 110th Congress sets forth the 
jurisdiction of the Committee on Small Business as follows--
    (1) Assistance to and protection of small business, 
including financial aid, regulatory flexibility, and paperwork 
reduction.
    (2) Participation of small business enterprises in Federal 
procurement and Government contracts.
    Clause 3(l) of rule X of the Rules of the House of 
Representatives for the 110th Congress sets forth the Special 
Oversight Function of the Committee on Small Business as 
follows--
    The Committee on Small Business shall study and investigate 
on a continuing basis the problems of all types of small 
business.

       REAFFIRMATION OF COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS JURISDICTION

    ``Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
reaffirm the jurisdiction of the Committee on Small Business as 
contained in House Rule X, clause 1(p). The Committee's 
jurisdiction includes the Small Business Administration and its 
programs, as well as small business matters related to the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act and the Paperwork Reduction Act. Its 
jurisdiction under House Rule X, clause 1(p) also includes 
other programs and initiatives that address small businesses 
outside of the confines of those Acts.
    This reaffirmation of the jurisdiction of the Committee on 
Small Business will enable the House to ensure that it is 
properly considering the consequences of its actions related to 
small business.''
    Louise Slaughter, Chairwoman, Committee of Rules
    Consideration of H. Res. 6, Adopting the Rules of the House 
of Representatives for the One Hundredth Tenth Congress, 
January 4, 2007 

  RULES OF THE COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS FOR THE ONE HUNDRED TENTH 
                                CONGRESS

                         1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

    The Rules of the House of Representatives, and in 
particular the committee rules enumerated in rule XI, are the 
rules of the Committee on Small Business to the extent 
applicable and by this reference are incorporated. Each 
subcommittee of the Committee on Small Business (hereinafter 
referred to as the ``committee'') is a part of the committee 
and is subject to the authority and direction of the committee, 
and to its rules to the extent applicable.

                   2. REFERRAL OF BILLS BY CHAIRWOMAN

    Unless retained for consideration by the committee, all 
legislation and other matters referred to the committee shall 
be referred by the Chairwoman to the subcommittee of 
appropriate jurisdiction within 14 calendar days. Where the 
subject matter of the referral involves the jurisdiction of 
more than one subcommittee or does not fall within any 
previously assigned jurisdictions, the Chairwoman shall refer 
the matter, as she may deem advisable.

                           3. DATE OF MEETING

    The regular meeting date of the committee shall be the 
second Thursday of every month when the House is in session. A 
regular meeting of the committee may be dispensed with if, in 
the judgment of the Chairwoman, there is no need for the 
meeting. Additional meetings may be called by the Chairwoman as 
she may deem necessary or at the request of a majority of the 
members of the committee in accordance with clause 2(c) of rule 
XI of the House.
    At least 3 days' notice of such an additional meeting shall 
be given unless the Chairwoman determines that there is good 
cause to call the meeting on less notice. The determination of 
the business to be considered at each meeting shall be made by 
the Chairwoman subject to clause 2(c) of rule XI of the House.
    A regularly scheduled meeting need not be held if there is 
no business to be considered or, upon at least 3 days' notice, 
it may be set for a different date.

                      4. ANNOUNCEMENT OF HEARINGS

    Unless the Chairwoman, with the concurrence of the Ranking 
Minority Member, or the committee by majority vote, determines 
that there is good cause to begin a hearing at an earlier date, 
public announcement shall be made of the date, place and 
subject matter of any hearing to be conducted by the committee 
at least 7 calendar days before the commencement of that 
hearing.
    After announcement of a hearing, the committee shall make 
available as soon as practicable to all Members of the 
committee a tentative witness list and to the extent 
practicable a memorandum explaining the subject matter of the 
hearing (including relevant legislative reports and other 
necessary material). In addition, the Chairwoman shall make 
available as soon as practicable to the Members of the 
committee any official reports from departments and agencies on 
the subject matter as they are received.

              5. MEETINGS AND HEARINGS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

(A) Meetings

    Each meeting of the committee or its subcommittees for the 
transaction of business, including the markup of legislation, 
shall be open to the public, including to radio, television and 
still photography coverage, except as provided by clause 4 of 
rule XI of the House, except when the committee or 
subcommittee, in open session and with a majority present, 
determines by record vote that all or part of the remainder of 
the meeting on that day shall be closed to the public because 
disclosure of matters to be considered would endanger national 
security, would compromise sensitive law enforcement 
information, or would tend to defame, degrade or incriminate 
any person or otherwise would violate any law or rule of the 
House; Provided, however, that no person other than members of 
the committee, and such congressional staff and such executive 
branch representatives as they may authorize, shall be present 
in any business meeting or markup session which has been closed 
to the public.

(B) Hearings

    Each hearing conducted by the committee or its 
subcommittees shall be open to the public, including radio, 
television and still photography coverage, except when the 
committee or subcommittee, in open session and with a majority 
present, determines by record vote that all or part of the 
remainder of the hearing on that day shall be closed to the 
public because disclosure of testimony, evidence or other 
matters to be considered would endanger the national security, 
would compromise sensitive law enforcement information, or 
would violate any law or rule of the House; Provided, however, 
that the committee or subcommittee may by the same procedure 
vote to close one subsequent day of hearings. Notwithstanding 
the requirements of the preceding sentence, a majority of those 
present, there being in attendance the requisite number 
required under the rules of the committee to be present for the 
purpose of taking testimony, (i) may vote to close the hearing 
for the sole purpose of discussing whether testimony or 
evidence to be received would endanger the national security, 
would compromise sensitive law enforcement information, or 
violate clause 2(k)(5) of rule XI of the House; or (ii) may 
vote to close the hearing, as provided in clause 2(k)(5) of 
rule XI of the House.
    All members of the committee shall be able to participate 
in any subcommittee hearing. No member of the House may be 
excluded from non-participatory attendance at any hearing of 
the committee or any subcommittee, unless the House of 
Representatives shall by majority vote authorize the committee 
or subcommittee, for purposes of a particular series of 
hearings on a particular article of legislation or on a 
particular subject of investigation, to close its hearing to 
members by the same procedures designated for closing hearings 
to the public. Such members who would like to participate shall 
notify the Ranking Minority Member and submit a request to the 
Chairwoman one day in advance of such hearing.

                              6. WITNESSES

(A) Statement of witnesses

    Each witness who is to appear before the committee or 
subcommittee shall file with the committee at least two 
business days before the day of his or her appearance 75 copies 
of his or her written statement of proposed testimony. Each 
witness shall also submit to the committee a copy of his or her 
final prepared statement in an electronic format at that time.
    At least one copy of the statement of each witness shall be 
furnished directly to the Ranking Minority Member. In addition, 
all witnesses shall be required to submit with their testimony 
a curriculum vitae or other statement describing their 
education, employment, professional affiliations and other 
background information pertinent to their testimony unless 
waived by the Chairwoman. Each witness will complete a 
disclosure form detailing any contracts or business that they 
currently have with the federal government.
    The committee will provide public access to its printed 
materials, including the proposed testimony of witnesses, in 
electronic form.

(B) Interrogation of witnesses

    Whenever any hearing is conducted by the committee or any 
subcommittee upon any measure or matter, the minority party 
members on the committee shall be entitled, upon request to the 
Chairwoman by a majority of those minority members, to call a 
witness or witnesses selected by the minority to testify with 
respect to that measure or matter. The minority shall be 
entitled to a ratio of one-third of the witnesses testifying. 
For the purposes of determining this ratio, it shall not 
include testifying government officials. The witnesses 
requested by the minority shall be invited to testify by the 
Chairwoman and must furnish at least one copy of his or her 
statement and any supplementary materials directly to the 
Chairwoman within one business day before the day of his or her 
appearance unless waived by the Chairwoman.
    Except when the committee adopts a motion pursuant to 
subdivisions (B) and (C) of clause 2(j)(2) of rule XI of the 
rules of the House, committee members may question witnesses 
only when they have been recognized by the Chairwoman for that 
purpose, and only for a 5-minute period until all members 
present have had an opportunity to question a witness. The 
Chairwoman and the Ranking Member shall not be subject to the 
5-minute period limitation. For all other Committee Members, 
the 5-minute period for questioning a witness by any one member 
can be extended only with the unanimous consent of all members 
present. The Chairwoman, followed by the Ranking Minority 
Member and all other members alternating between the majority 
and minority, shall initiate the questioning of witnesses in 
both the full and subcommittee hearings. The order for 
questioning by members of each party shall be determined by the 
time in which the member arrived at the hearing after the gavel 
has been struck, with the first arriving having priority over 
members of his or her party. If members arrive at the same 
time, then seniority shall dictate the order.
    In recognizing members to question witnesses, the 
Chairwoman may take into consideration the ratio of majority 
and minority members present in such a manner as not to 
disadvantage the Members of either party. The Chairwoman, in 
consultation with the Ranking Minority Member, may decrease the 
5-minute time period in order to accommodate the needs of all 
the Members present and the schedule of the witnesses.

                              7. SUBPOENAS

    A subpoena may be authorized and issued by the committee in 
the conduct of any investigation or series of investigations or 
activities to require the attendance and testimony of such 
witness and the production of such books, records, 
correspondence, memoranda, papers and documents, as deemed 
necessary. Such a subpoena shall be authorized by a majority 
vote of the full committee. The requirement that the 
authorization of a subpoena require a majority vote may be 
waived by the Ranking Minority Member. The Chairwoman may issue 
a subpoena, in consultation with the Ranking Minority Member, 
when the House is out for more than three legislative days.

                               8. QUORUM

    No measure or recommendation shall be reported unless a 
majority of the committee was actually present. For purposes of 
taking testimony or receiving evidence, there shall be one 
member from the majority and one member from the minority for 
the purposes of a quorum. Such requirement shall be waived for 
field hearings. For all other purposes, one-third of the 
members (or 11 Members) shall constitute a quorum.

                      9. AMENDMENTS DURING MARK-UP

    Any amendment offered to any pending legislation before the 
committee must be made available in written form when requested 
by any member of the committee. If such amendment is not 
available in written form when requested, the Chairwoman shall 
allow an appropriate period for the provision thereof.

                    10. POSTPONEMENT OF PROCEEDINGS

    The Chairwoman in consultation with the Ranking Minority 
Member may postpone further proceedings when a record vote is 
ordered on the question of approving any measure or matter or 
adopting an amendment. The Chairwoman may resume proceedings 
postponed at any time, but no later than the next meeting day. 
In exercising postponement authority, the Chairwoman shall take 
all reasonable steps necessary to notify members on the 
resumption of proceedings on any postponed recorded vote. When 
proceedings resume on a postponed question, notwithstanding any 
intervening order for the previous question, an underlying 
proposition shall remain subject to further debate or amendment 
to the same extent as when the question was postponed.

              11. NUMBER AND JURISDICTION OF SUBCOMMITTEES

    There will be five subcommittees as follows:
    Finance and Tax (6 Democratic Members and 5 Republican 
Members); Contracting and Technology (6 Democratic Members and 
5 Republican Members); Regulations, Health Care, and Trade (8 
Democratic Members and 7 Republican Members); Rural and Urban 
Entrepreneurship (7 Democratic Members and 6 Republican 
Members); Investigations and Oversight (4 Democratic Members 
and 3 Republican Members).
    During the 110th Congress, the Chairwoman and Ranking 
Minority Member shall be ex officio members of all 
subcommittees, without vote, and the full committee shall have 
the authority to conduct oversight of all areas of the 
committee's jurisdiction. In addition, all members of the 
committee may participate in hearings of any subcommittee of 
the committee. In addition to conducting oversight in the area 
of their respective jurisdiction, each subcommittee shall have 
the following jurisdiction:

Subcommittee on Finance and Tax

    The Small Business Administration (SBA) Lending and 
Investment programs: Section 7(a) loan program, 504 Certified 
Development Company program, Small Business Investment Company 
program, Disaster Loan Assistance programs, and Microloan 
program.
    Access to capital and finance issues generally.
    Oversight over tax policy and retirement/pension matters 
affecting small businesses

Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology

    SBA Contracting programs including the following: Section 
8(a) Business Development program, Small Disadvantaged Business 
(SDB) certification operated by SBA, Women's Procurement 
Program, HUBZone program, Surety Bond program, Service-disabled 
veteran procurement, and Section 7(j) management and technical 
assistance program SBA Technology programs: Small Business 
Innovation Research (SBIR) program, Small Business Technology 
Transfer program.
    Oversight of government-wide procurement practices and 
programs affecting small businesses.
    Oversight of technology and patent issues.

Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care, and Trade

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act, the Small Business 
Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act, and the Paperwork 
Reduction Act.
    SBA's Office of Advocacy, National Ombudsman, and SBA small 
business size standards.
    Oversight of regulations and regulatory issues that affect 
small businesses.
    Oversight of health care coverage issues.
    Oversight over issues affecting small health care 
providers.
    Oversight of trade issues, including SBA's Office of 
International Trade.

Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship

    SBA entrepreneurial development programs: Women's Business 
Centers, National Veterans Business Development Corporation, 
Small Business Development Centers, SCORE, Drug Free Workplace 
program, Office of Women's Business Ownership, and National 
Women's Business Council (NWBC).
    New Markets Venture Capital (NMVC) program, New Markets Tax 
Credit program, BusinessLINC and the Program for Re-Investment 
in Micro entrepreneurs.
    General oversight of programs targeted toward urban and 
rural economic growth as well as general federal government 
entrepreneurial development programs.
    Oversight of agricultural issues.
    Oversight of energy issues.

Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight

    Oversight of SBA Administration, Management, and Agency 
Practices.
    Oversight of activities by the Office of the Inspector 
General at SBA.

                          12. COMMITTEE STAFF

(A) Majority staff

    The employees of the committee, except those assigned to 
the minority as provided below, shall be appointed and 
assigned, and may be removed by the Chairwoman. The Chairwoman 
shall fix their remuneration, and they shall be under the 
general supervision and direction of the Chairwoman.

(B) Minority staff

    The employees of the committee assigned to the minority 
shall be appointed and assigned, and their remuneration 
determined, as the Ranking Minority Member of the committee 
shall determine.

(C) Subcommittee staff

    The Chairwoman and Ranking Minority Member of the full 
committee shall endeavor to ensure that sufficient staff is 
made available to each subcommittee to carry out its 
responsibilities under the rules of the committee.

                 13. POWERS AND DUTIES OF SUBCOMMITTEES

    Each subcommittee is authorized to meet, hold hearings, 
receive evidence, and report to the full committee on all 
matters referred to it. Subcommittee chairmen shall set meeting 
and hearing dates after approval of the Chairwoman of the full 
committee. Meetings and hearings of subcommittees shall not be 
scheduled to occur simultaneously with meetings or hearings of 
the full committee.

                              14. RECORDS

    The committee shall keep a complete record of all actions, 
which shall include a record of the votes on any question on 
which a record vote is demanded. The result of each 
subcommittee record vote, together with a description of the 
matter voted upon, shall promptly be made available to the full 
committee. A record of such votes shall be made available for 
inspection by the public at reasonable times in the offices of 
the committee. The committee shall keep a complete record of 
all committee and subcommittee activity which, in the case of 
any meeting or hearing transcript, shall include a 
substantially verbatim account of remarks actually made during 
the proceedings, subject only to technical, grammatical, and 
typographical corrections authorized by the person making the 
remarks involved.
    The records of the committee at the National Archives and 
Records Administration shall be made available in accordance 
with rule VII of the Rules of the House. The Chairwoman of the 
full committee shall notify the Ranking Minority Member of the 
full committee of any decision, pursuant to clause 3(b)(3) or 
clause 4(b) of rule VII of the House, to withhold a record 
otherwise available, and the matter shall be presented to the 
committee for a determination of the written request of any 
member of the committee.

           15. ACCESS TO CLASSIFIED OR SENSITIVE INFORMATION

    Access to classified or sensitive information supplied to 
the committee and attendance at closed sessions of the 
committee or its subcommittees shall be limited to members and 
necessary committee staff and stenographic reporters who have 
appropriate security clearance when the Chairwoman determines 
that such access or attendance is essential to the functioning 
of the committee.
    The procedures to be followed in granting access to those 
hearings, records, data, charts, and files of the committee 
which involve classified information or information deemed to 
be sensitive shall be as follows:
    (A) Only Members of the House of Representatives and 
specifically designated committee staff of the Committee on 
Small Business may have access to such information.
    (B) Members who desire to read materials that are in the 
possession of the committee should notify the clerk of the 
committee.
    (C) The clerk will maintain an accurate access log, which 
identifies the circumstances surrounding access to the 
information, without revealing the material examined.
    (D) If the material desired to be reviewed is material 
which the committee or subcommittee deems to be sensitive 
enough to require special handling, before receiving access to 
such information, individuals will be required to sign an 
access information sheet acknowledging such access and that the 
individual has read and understands the procedures under which 
access is being granted.
    (E) Material provided for review under this rule shall not 
be removed from a specified room within the committee offices.
    (F) Individuals reviewing materials under this rule shall 
make certain that the materials are returned to the proper 
custodian.
    (G) No reproductions or recordings may be made of any 
portion of such materials.
    (H) The contents of such information shall not be divulged 
to any person in any way, form, shape, or manner, and shall not 
be discussed with any person who has not received the 
information in an authorized manner.
    (I) When not being examined in the manner described herein, 
such information will be kept in secure safes or locked file 
cabinets in the committee offices.
    (J) These procedures only address access to information the 
committee or a subcommittee deems to be sensitive enough to 
require special treatment.
    (K) If a member of the House of Representatives believes 
that certain sensitive information should not be restricted as 
to dissemination or use, the member may petition the committee 
or subcommittee to so rule. With respect to information and 
materials provided to the committee by the executive branch, 
the classification of information and materials as determined 
by the executive branch shall prevail unless affirmatively 
changed by the committee or the subcommittee involved, after 
consultation with the appropriate executive agencies.
    (L) Other materials in the possession of the committee are 
to be handled in accordance with the normal practices and 
traditions of the committee.

                          16. OTHER PROCEDURES

    The Chairwoman of the full committee may establish such 
other procedures and take such actions as may be necessary to 
carry out the foregoing rules or to facilitate the effective 
operation of the committee.

                   17. AMENDMENTS TO COMMITTEE RULES

    The rules of the committee may be modified, amended or 
repealed by a majority of the members, at a meeting 
specifically called for such purpose, but only if written 
notice of the proposed change has been provided to each such 
member at least 3 days before the time of the meeting.

                         18. BUDGET AND TRAVEL

    (A) From the amount provided to the Committee in the 
primary expense resolution adopted by the U.S. House of 
Representatives for the 110th Congress, the Chairwoman, after 
consultation with the Ranking Minority Member, shall designate 
one-third of the budget under the direction of the Ranking 
Minority Member for the purposes of minority staff, travel 
expenses of minority staff and members, and minority office 
expenses.
    (B) The Chairwoman may authorize travel in connection with 
activities or subject matters under the general jurisdiction of 
the Committee.
    (C) The Ranking Minority Member may authorize travel for 
any minority member or minority committee staff member in 
connection with activities or subject matters under the general 
jurisdiction of the Committee. Before such travel, there shall 
be submitted to the Chairwoman in writing the following at 
least seven calendar days prior:
    The purpose of the travel.
    The dates during which the travel is to occur.
    The names of the States or countries to be visited and the 
length of time spent in each.
    The names of members and staff of the committee 
participating in such travel.
    At the conclusion of such travel, a summary of the activity 
and its accomplishments shall be provided to the Chairwoman 
within ten calendar days.

                         19. COMMITTEE WEBSITE

    The Chairwoman shall maintain an official Committee website 
for the purpose of furthering the Committee's legislative and 
oversight responsibilities, including communicating information 
about the Committee's activities to Committee members and other 
Members of the House. The Ranking Minority Members may maintain 
a similar website for the same purpose, including communicating 
information about the activities of the minority to Committee 
members and other Members of the House.

                             20. VICE CHAIR

    Pursuant to House Rules, the Chairwoman shall designate a 
member of the majority party to serve as Vice Chairman of the 
Committee. The Vice Chairman shall preside at any meeting or 
hearing during the temporary absence of the Chairwoman. If the 
Chairwoman and Vice Chairman are not present at any meeting or 
hearing, the ranking member of the majority who is present 
shall preside at the meeting or hearing.
     MEMBERSHIP AND ORGANIZATION OF THE COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS

                       ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS

                      COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS
                          FULL COMMITTEE LIST

Rep. STEVE CHABOT (OH-01), Ranking Member NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ (NY-12), 
Rep. ROSCOE G. BARTLETT (MD-06)      Chair
Rep. SAM GRAVES (MO-06)              Rep. HEATH SHULER (NC-11)
Rep. W. TODD AKIN (MO-02)            Rep. CHARLIE GONZALEZ (TX-20)
Rep. BILL SHUSTER (PA-09)            Rep. RICK LARSEN (WA-02)
Rep. MARILYN N. MUSGRAVE (CO-04)     Rep. RAUL GRIJALVA (AZ-07)
Rep. STEVE KING (IA-05)              Rep. MICHAEL MICHAUD (ME-02)
Rep. JEFF FORTENBERRY (NE-01)        Rep. MELISSA BEAN (IL-08)
Rep. LYNN WESTMORELAND (GA-03)       Rep. HENRY CUELLAR (TX-28)
Rep. LOUIE GOHMERT (TX-01)           Rep. DAN LIPINSKI (IL-03)
Rep. DAVID DAVIS (TN-01)             Rep. GWEN MOORE (WI-04)
Rep. MARY FALLIN (OK-05)             Rep. JASON ALTMIRE (PA-04)
Rep. VERN BUCHANAN (FL-13)           Rep. BRUCE BRALEY (IA-01)
VACANT\3\                            Rep. YVETTE CLARKE (NY-11)
VACANT\4\                            Rep. BRAD ELLSWORTH (IN-08)
                                     Rep. HENRY ``HANK'' JOHNSON (GA-
                                     04)
                                     Rep. JOE SESTAK (PA-07)
                                     Rep. BRIAN HIGGINS (NY-27)\1\
                                     Rep. MAZIE HIRONO (HI-02)\2\

----------
\1\Added 10/03/07. Replaced Rep. Juanita Millender-McDonald.
\2\Added 10/03/07. Replaced Rep. William Jefferson.
\3\Vacancy due to Dean Heller's departure from the Committee on 
February, 2008.
\4\Vacancy due to Jim Jordan's departure from the Committee on March, 
2008.

                           SUBCOMMITTEE LIST
                    Subcommittee on Finance and Tax

Rep. VERN BUCHANAN (FL-13), Ranking Member\5\ISSA BEAN (IL-08), Chair
Rep. BILL SHUSTER (PA-09)            Rep. RAUL GRIJALVA (AZ-07)
Rep. STEVE KING (IA-05)              Rep. MICHAEL MICHAUD (ME-02)
VACANT\6\                            Rep. HENRY ``HANK'' JOHNSON (GA-
VACANT\7\                            04)
                                     Rep. JOE SESTAK (PA-07)
                                     Rep. BRAD ELLSWORTH (IN-08)

----------
\5\Rep. Buchanan was named Ranking Member after the original ranking 
member, Rep. Heller, left the Committee.
\6\Vacancy due to Rep. Dean Heller's departure from the Committee on 
February, 2008.
\7\Vacancy due to Rep. Jim Jordan's departure from the Committee on 
March, 2008.

                                 ------                                

               Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology

Rep. DAVID DAVIS (TN-01), Ranking Member. BRUCE BRALEY (IA-01), Chair
Rep. ROSCOE G. BARTLETT (MD-06)      Rep. HENRY CUELLAR (TX-28)
Rep. SAM GRAVES (MO-06)              Rep. GWEN MOORE (WI-04)
Rep. W. TODD AKIN (MO-02)            Rep. YVETTE CLARKE (NY-11)
Rep. MARY FALLIN (OK-05)             Rep. JOE SESTAK (PA-07)
                                     VACANT\8\

----------
\8\Vacancy due to Rep. William Jefferson's departure from the Committee 
on June, 2007.

                                 ------                                

          Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care, and Trade

Rep. LYNN WESTMORELAND (GA-03), Ranking MemberLIE GONZALEZ (TX-20), 
Rep. BILL SHUSTER (PA-09)            Chair
Rep. STEVE KING (IA-05)              Rep. DAN LIPINSKI (IL-03)
Rep. MARY FALLIN (OK-05)             Rep. RICK LARSEN (WA-02)
Rep. MARILYN N. MUSGRAVE (CO-04)     Rep. JASON ALTMIRE (PA-04)
Rep. VERN BUCHANAN (FL-13)           Rep. MELISSA BEAN (IL-08)
VACANT\10\                           Rep. GWEN MOORE (WI-04)
                                     Rep. JOE SESTAK (PA-07)
                                     VACANT\9\

----------
\9\Vacancy due to Rep. William Jefferson's departure from the Committee 
on June, 2007.
\10\Vacancy due to Rep. Jim Jordan's departure from the Committee on 
March, 2008.

                                 ------                                

            Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship

Rep. JEFF FORTENBERRY (NE-01), Ranking MemberTH SHULER (NC-11), Chair
Rep. MARILYN N. MUSGRAVE (CO-04)     Rep. RICK LARSEN (WA-02)
Rep. ROSCOE G. BARTLETT (MD-06)      Rep. BRAD ELLSWORTH (IN-08)
Rep. DAVID DAVIS (TN-01)             Rep. MICHAEL MICHAUD (ME-02)
VACANT\11\                           Rep. GWEN MOORE (WI-04)
VACANT                               Rep. YVETTE CLARKE (NY-11)
                                     Rep. HENRY ``HANK'' JOHNSON (GA-
                                     04)

----------
\11\Vacancy due to Rep. Dean Heller's departure from the Committee on 
February, 2008.

                                 ------                                

              Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight

Rep. MARY FALLIN (OK-05), Ranking Member\12\SON ALTMIRE (PA-04), Chair
Rep. LYNN WESTMORELAND (GA-03)       Rep. CHARLIE GONZALEZ (TX-20)
VACANT                               Rep. RAUL GRIJALVA (AZ-07)
                                     VACANT

----------
\12\Rep. Louie Gohmert was originally the Ranking Member.
                            COMMITTEE STAFF
                             Majority Staff

    Michael Day, Staff Director
   Adam Minehardt, Deputy Staff 
             Director
    Tim Slattery, Chief Counsel
   Andy Jiminez, Banking Counsel
Erik Lieberman, Regulatory Counsel
 Mark Palmer, Agriculture Counsel
LeAnn Delaney, Senior Procurement 
              Counsel
    Naveen Parmar, Tax Counsel
  Tom Dawson, Health Care Counsel
 Nicole Witenstein, Trade Counsel
 Bill Maguire, Technology Counsel
  Russell Orban, General Counsel
  Melody Reis, Professional Staff
  Gail O'Connor, Press Secretary
Erin Donar, Deputy Press Secretary
   Luis Hestres, Web Coordinator
    Darienne Gutierrez, Staff 
             Assistant
  Eduardo Lerma, Staff Assistant
  Moraima Garcia, Office Manager

                             Minority Staff

 Kevin Fitzpatrick, Staff Director
    Janet Oliver, Deputy Staff 
             Director
   Barry Pineles, Chief Counsel
  Joe Hartz, Professional Staff 
              Member
Lisa Christian, Professional Staff
   Kathryn Fox, Press Secretary
   Laura Danner, Staff Assistant
                  LEGISLATIVE AND OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES

    During the 110th Congress, 80 bills were referred to the 
Committee on Small Business. The full Committee reported to the 
House or was discharged from the further consideration of 18 
measures, not including conference reports. Six measures 
regarding matters within the Committee's jurisdiction were 
enacted into law.
    The following is a summary of the legislative and oversight 
activities of the Committee on Small Business during the 110th 
Congress, including a summary of the activities taken by the 
Committee to implement its Oversight Plan for the 110th 
Congress.
                             Full Committee

                         Legislative Activities

  AN ACT TO PROVIDE FOR AN ADDITIONAL TEMPORARY EXTENSION OF PROGRAMS 
 UNDER THE SMALL BUSINESS ACT AND THE SMALL BUSINESS INVESTMENT ACT OF 
           1958 THROUGH JULY 31, 2007, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

                               (H.R. 434)

Summary
    H.R. 434 extended the programs authorized under the Small 
Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 
through July 31, 2007.
Legislative history
    H.R. 434 was introduced by Ranking Member Steve Chabot on 
January 12, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee 
Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez. The bill was referred to the 
Committee on Small Business.
    On January 17, 2007, the House considered H.R. 434 under 
suspension of the rules. At the conclusion of debate, the yeas 
and nays were demanded and ordered. On motion to suspend the 
rules and pass the bill, H.R. 434 was passed by a record vote 
of 413 yeas to 2 nays (Roll no. 28).
    On January 18, 2007, H.R. 434 was received in the Senate. 
On February 1, 2007, the Senate amended H.R. 434 by unanimous 
consent and agreed to Senate Amendments 229 and 230. This 
passed the Senate by unanimous consent on the same day. On 
February 7, 2007, the House agreed to suspend the rules and 
agree to the Senate amendments by voice vote. On February 15, 
2007, the legislation was signed by the President and became 
Public Law 110-4.

          THE SMALL BUSINESS LENDING IMPROVEMENTS ACT OF 2007

                              (H.R. 1332)

A bill to improve the access to capital lending programs of the 
Small Business Administration.
Summary
    H.R. 1332, the Small Business Lending Improvements Act of 
2007, updates and streamlines the SBA's two largest small 
business finance programs, the 7(a) and 504 (also known as the 
Certified Development Company) programs. The bill makes the 
7(a) program more affordable to borrowers and lenders by 
providing the SBA with authority to contribute funds for the 
purpose of reducing the burden associated with borrower and 
lender fees on 7(a) loans. The bill also adapts the 7(a) 
program to achieve specific public policy objectives through 
improved access to the program for medical professionals in 
health professional shortage areas and military veterans.
    The bill also focuses on encouraging increased lender 
participation in the 7(a) program by establishing programs 
within the 7(a) framework that simplify and streamline the 
lending process. A rural lender outreach program will reduce 
the paperwork burden associated with 7(a) loans, and a Small 
Bank Outreach division within the SBA will provide community 
banks with direct support in their efforts to participate in 
the 7(a) program.
    The Small Business Lending Improvements Act of 2007 also 
modernizes and improves the 504, Certified Development Company, 
program by making an array of technical changes to the program 
and addressing two of the program's most evident problems. The 
bill improves the program's ability to liquidate defaulted 
loans by permitting CDCs to either foreclose and liquidate 
defaulted loans or to contract with a qualified third party to 
do so. The bill enhances the ties between CDCs and the 
communities that they serve by requiring CDCs to include locals 
on the board of directors.
Legislative history
    H.R. 1332 was introduced by Representative Melissa Bean on 
March 6, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee 
Ranking Member Steve Chabot and Committee Chairwoman Nydia 
Velazquez. The bill was referred to the Committee on Small 
Business.
    The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on March 8, 
2007, and heard from the SBA's Associate Administrator for 
Capital Access on the Administration's views on the 
legislation. Additionally, the Committee received testimony 
from the American Dental Association, the Credit Union National 
Association, and the National Association of Development 
Companies who testified on the merits of the legislation and 
testified in support of its provisions.
    The Committee on Small Business met in open session on 
March 15, 2007, and ordered H.R. 1332 reported to the House, 
with an amendment, with a favorable recommendation by a voice 
vote.
    On April 24, 2007, the House adopted H. Res. 330, providing 
for consideration of H.R. 1332 under a modified open rule, by a 
voice vote. Also on that day, the House considered H.R. 1332 
and passed the bill with an amendment, by a record vote of 380 
ayes and 45 nays. On April 26, 2007, the bill was received in 
the Senate, read twice, and placed on Senate Legislative 
Calendar under General Orders.
    No further action was taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

  RELIEF FOR ENTREPRENEURS: COORDINATION OF OBJECTIVES AND VALUES FOR 
                     EFFECTIVE RECOVERY ACT OF 2007

                              (H.R. 1361)

A bill to reform and improve the disaster relief programs of 
the Small Business Administration.
Summary
    The RECOVER Act was established to address specific 
problems in the Small Business Administration's (SBA) disaster 
assistance program that were identified following deficiencies 
in the SBA's response to the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes. Most 
notably, the bill will ensure that the SBA performs 
comprehensive, risk-based, disaster planning on an annual basis 
and that the agency has mechanisms in place to maintain its 
disaster readiness over the long-term. The act also establishes 
several new disaster assistance tools to improve the disaster 
planning process, including the reorganization of the agency's 
Office of Disaster Assistance, a requirement that the agency 
engage in an annual disaster simulation exercise, and 
requirements that the agency formalize plans to address the 
need for additional space and employees in the event of a major 
disaster.
    The act will also enhance the SBA's disaster loan program 
by improving the manner in which disaster loans are processed, 
approved, and disbursed, and by providing the agency with 
additional financial assistance tools that are intended to 
better fit the various needs of small businesses following a 
disaster. The bill will establish a bridge financing program to 
provide small businesses with emergency, small-dollar financing 
within 36 hours following a disaster. This program will provide 
vital funds to disaster victims during the 21-day target 
approval timeframe for conventional disaster loans. These 
immediate disaster assistance loans will be limited in amount 
and will be contingent upon the applicant applying for, and 
meeting basic eligibility standards for a conventional disaster 
loan. These factors are intended to limit the federal 
government's risk exposure under this program.
    H.R. 1361 also establishes an Enhanced Lending Authority 
for Preferred Lenders Program that is intended to enable the 
SBA to enlist the resources of private lenders to process, 
approve, disburse, and service loans during incidents of 
national significance. This program may be implemented whenever 
the administrator sees fit or in two specific situations when 
the administration is most likely to need the additional loan 
processing, approval, and disbursement capacity that the 
private sector can provide. The Enhanced Lending Authority for 
Preferred Lenders Program loans are intended to carry the same 
favorable interest and repayment terms as conventional disaster 
loans administered under Section 7(b) of the Small Business 
Act.
    The bill also creates a small grant program to assist the 
most severely affected small businesses damaged by Hurricanes 
Katrina, Rita, and Wilma. To ensure that grant assistance only 
goes to the neediest small businesses and is only used to spur 
redevelopment in communities where market forces have failed, 
the program will only be applicable under very limited 
circumstances. In order to receive a grant, a small business 
must have been located in those communities most severely 
damaged by Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma, must have been 
in existence at least two years prior to the disaster, must 
have been rejected for a conventional SBA loan, must have 
remained economically viable following the disaster, and have 
certified that they will reopen their business in one of the 
affected communities. Only a small number of businesses are 
expected to meet all of these requirements, and the program is 
intended to be administered at the discretion of the 
Administrator.
    To enable the SBA to be more responsive to the needs of 
individual disaster victims, H.R. 1361 provides the 
administrator with authority to waive the prohibition on 
duplication of benefits stemming from state administered grant 
assistance programs. This provision will enable the SBA to 
assist those victims that were negatively impacted by 
deficiencies in the loan processing and disbursement process. 
These waivers will be available at the discretion of the 
Administrator of the SBA.
    The bill also streamlines the SBA's loan processing and 
disbursement process and makes them more responsive to the 
needs of borrowers. The SBA will be required to develop, 
implement, and maintain a centralized system to track all 
communication written, verbal, and electronic, between disaster 
assistance applicants and agency employees. The SBA will also 
be required to provide follow-up information to disaster 
assistance applicants as their application moves through vital 
stages of the processing, approval, and disbursement process. 
The Act is intended to improve the way the SBA disburses 
approved assistance to victims by setting a minimum amount that 
must be disbursed in each disbursement stage unless the 
applicant requests a lesser amount.
    Finally, a reporting requirement will ensure that members 
of Congress are adequately informed about all aspects of the 
SBA's disaster assistance and disaster planning programs so 
that they may provide the SBA with the support they need to 
fulfill their vital mission following a disaster.
Legislative history
    H.R. 1361 was introduced by Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez on 
March 6, 2007. Original Cosponsors included Representatives 
Richard Baker, Charles Gonzalez, William Jefferson, Henry 
Johnson, Charlie Melancon, Gwen Moore, Bruce Braley, Raul 
Grijalva, Daniel Lipinski, and Gene Taylor. The bill was 
referred to the Committee on Small Business.
    The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on March 8, 
2007, and heard from the SBA's Associate Administrator for 
Disaster Relief on the Administration's views on the 
legislation. Additionally, the Committee received testimony 
from a former director of the Federal Emergency Management 
Agency, the National Black Chamber of Commerce, and the U.S. 
Women's Chamber of Commerce, who testified on the merits of the 
legislation and testified in support of its provisions.
    The Committee on Small Business met in open session on 
March 15, 2007, and ordered H.R. 1361 reported to the House, 
with an amendment, by a record vote of 17 ayes and 9 nays.
    On April 18, 2007, the House adopted H. Res. 302, providing 
for consideration of H.R. 1332 under a modified open rule, by a 
voice vote. Also on that day, the House considered H.R. 1361 
and passed the bill with an amendment, by a record vote of 267 
ayes and 158 nays. On April 19, 2007, the bill was received in 
the Senate. On August 3, 2007, the bill was read twice in the 
Senate, and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General 
Orders.
    No further action was taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

            DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS DISASTER ELIGIBILITY ACT

                              (H.R. 1468)

    To ensure that, for each small business participating in 
the 8(a) business development program that was affected by 
Hurricane Katrina of 2005, the period in which it can 
participate is extended by 18 months.

Summary

    H.R. 1468, the ``Disadvantaged Business Disaster 
Eligibility Act,'' allows companies participating in the 
program established by Section 8(a) of the Small Business Act 
(``the 8(a) program'') 18 additional months of participation if 
those companies were located in a parish in the state of 
Louisiana that was declared a disaster as a result of Hurricane 
Katrina.

Legislative history

    H.R. 1468 was introduced in the House by Rep. Jefferson on 
March 12, 2007. The bill was referred to the House Committee on 
Small Business. The legislation was marked-up and reported 
favorably out of the Committee on March 15, 2007 on a voice 
vote. On March 26, 2007, the bill was considered by the House 
under suspension of the rules and passed by a voice vote. On 
March 27, 2007, H.R. 1468 was received in the Senate, read 
twice and referred to the Committee on Small Business and 
Entrepreneurship. No further action has been taken on this 
legislation.

               SMALL BUSINESS FAIRNESS IN CONTRACTING ACT

                              (H.R. 1873)

To reauthorize the programs and activities of the Small 
Business Administration relating to procurement, and for other 
purposes.

Summary

    H.R. 1873, the Small Business Fairness in Contracting Act, 
amends the Small Business Act to provide greater opportunities 
for small businesses in the procurement arena.
    The bill closes loopholes in the definition of contract 
bundling, explicitly requiring both new work and construction 
to be screened for potential bundling.
    The bill raises the small business contracting goal to 30 
percent and includes overseas work, both of which will 
encourage greater participation of small businesses.
    Finally, H.R. 1873 addresses fraud. Requiring reviews of 
various contracting databases will decrease the likelihood of 
counting large business contracts towards agency small business 
accomplishments.

Legislative history

    H.R. 1873 was introduced in the House by Mr. Braley and two 
original cosponsors on April 17, 2007. The bill was referred to 
the Committee on Small Business. On April 19, 2007, the 
Committee heard testimony on key contracting issues for small 
businesses and how H.R. 1873 would address those problems. The 
full Committee met in open session on April 24, 2007, to 
consider the legislation and ordered H.R. 1873 reported to the 
House in the nature of a substitute. The bill was sequentially 
referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government 
Reform. The Committee on Oversight and Government Reform met in 
open session on May 1, 2007, to consider the legislation and 
ordered H.R. 1873 reported to the House in the nature of a 
substitute. On May 9, 2007, the House adopted H. Res. 383, 
providing for the consideration of H.R. 1873, by a vote of 223-
197. On May 10, 2007, the House considered H.R. 1873 and passed 
the bill, with amendments, by a record vote of 409 yeas and 13 
nays. On May 11, 2007, the bill was received in the Senate, 
read twice, and referred to the Committee on Small Business and 
Entrepreneurship.

         NATIVE AMERICAN SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 2007

                              (H.R. 2284)

To amend the Small Business Act to expand and improve the 
assistance provided by Small Business Development Centers to 
Indian tribe members, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians.

Summary

    The legislation targets federal entrepreneurial development 
resources to Native American communities. Given limited local 
resources and economic development opportunities in many of 
these communities, the bill leverages federal resources to 
support entrepreneurship.
    H.R. 2284 provides grants to Small Business Development 
Centers (SBDC) to assist entrepreneurs with starting and 
expanding small businesses both within these communities and in 
the urban areas adjacent to reservations. It requires SBDC 
project recipients to adapt activities to the local context by 
requesting the advice of local Tribal Councils (or tribal 
governments) on how best assist Indian tribe members, Native 
Alaskans, and Native Hawaiians and where to locate satellite 
centers to provide such services. The legislation also 
emphasizes the role the Association for Small Business 
Development Centers (ASBDC) will play in promulgating the 
regulations required under the legislation. The SBA must 
consult with the ASBDC in establishing standards relating to 
(1) educational, technical, and support services to be provided 
by SBDCs receiving grant monies, and (2) any work plan that is 
required to be submitted by an applicant.

Legislative history

    H.R. 2284 was introduced by Congressman Tom Udall on May 
10, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Representatives Neil 
Abercrombie, Raul Grijalva, Michael Honda, Michael Michaud, 
James Moran, David Wu, Stephanie Herseth, Betty McCollum, 
Dennis Moore, and Rick Renzi. The bill was referred to the 
Committee on Small Business.
    The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on May 16, 
2007, and heard from the SBA's Acting Assistant Administrator 
for the Office of Entrepreneurial Development on the 
Administration's views on the legislation. Additionally, the 
Committee received testimony from the Pennsylvania Small 
Business Development Center, the New Mexico Small Business 
Development Center, and the Association of Women's Business 
Centers who testified on the merits of the legislation.
    The Committee on Small Business met in open session on May 
23, 2007, and ordered H.R. 2284 reported to the House with a 
favorable recommendation by a voice vote.
    On June 18, 2007, the House considered H.R. 2284 and 
postponed further proceedings on the motion. On June 20, 2007, 
the House passed the bill by a record vote of 351 ayes and 73 
nays. On June 21, 2007, the bill was received in the Senate, 
read twice, and referred to the Committee on Small Business and 
Entrepreneurship.
    No further action was taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

        THE SBA ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS ACT OF 2007

                              (H.R. 2359)

To reauthorize programs to assist small business concerns, and 
for other purposes.

Summary

    The SBA Entrepreneurial Development Programs Act of 2007, 
H.R. 2359, amends key sections of the Small Business Act to 
assist small business owners gain the technical expertise 
associated with starting and running a successful business. The 
bill ensures that SBA entrepreneurial development programs 
reflect the current composition of small business owners and 
have the flexibility to address new needs and conditions.
    H.R. 2359 enhances entrepreneurial development services at 
the agency in three main areas: operational changes, additional 
mandates, and the representation of entrepreneurial composition 
in program providers. Procedural improvements to SBA 
administered Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) are 
established to maintain high levels of service across the 
country. The role of SBDCs is also expanded, adding to their 
enumerated functions under the Small Business Act. SBA's SCORE 
program is also modified to reflect the growing numbers of 
entrepreneurs from socially and economically disadvantaged 
backgrounds by requiring administrators to recruit and maintain 
a higher representation of volunteers with diverse backgrounds.

Legislative history

    H.R. 2359 was introduced by Congressman Joe Sestak on May 
17, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee Chairwoman 
Nydia Velazquez (NY-12), and Subcommittee on Rural and Urban 
Entrepreneurship, Small Business Committee Chair Heath Shuler. 
The bill was referred to the Committee on Small Business.
    The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on May 16, 
2007, and heard from the SBA's Acting Assistant Administrator 
for the Office of Entrepreneurial Development on the 
Administration's views on the legislation. Additionally, the 
Committee received testimony from the Pennsylvania Small 
Business Development Center, the New Mexico Small Business 
Development Center, and the Association of Women's Business 
Centers who testified on the merits of the legislation.
    The Committee on Small Business met in open session on May 
23, 2007, and ordered H.R. 2359 reported to the House with a 
favorable recommendation by a voice vote.
    On June 18, 2007, the House considered H.R. 2359 and 
postponed further proceedings on the motion. On June 20, 2007, 
the House passed the bill by a record vote of 405 ayes and 18 
nays. On June 21, 2007, the bill was received in the Senate, 
read twice, and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under 
General Orders. (Calendar No. 218).
    No further action was taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

                 THE SBA VETERANS' PROGRAMS ACT OF 2007

                              (H.R. 2366)

To reauthorize the veterans entrepreneurial development 
programs of the Small Business Administration, and for other 
purposes.

Summary

    The SBA Veterans' Programs Act of 2007, H.R. 2366, amends 
key sections of the Small Business Act to promote increased 
veterans entrepreneurship. The bill was designed to ensure 
veterans have affordable, timely, and comprehensive access to 
start or grow small businesses through targeted resources and 
expertise at the agency.
    H.R. 2366 enhances assistance to veteran entrepreneurs in 
three main areas: outreach, business counseling, and 
entrepreneurial development resources. The bill expands 
outreach to all service members by requiring SBA to participate 
at Transition Assistance Workshops located at military bases 
and to compile as well as distribute information on 
entrepreneurial development resources for women veterans. 
Additional resources are established to enable existing general 
business counseling centers located in communities across the 
country to develop new programs designed to support the 
sector's entrepreneurial needs. Building on the success of the 
agency's veterans programs, the bill also expands the network 
of counseling centers designed to specifically assist this 
population.

Legislative history

    H.R. 2366 was introduced by Congressman Vern Buchanan on 
May 17, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee 
Ranking Member Steve Chabot, Committee Chairwoman Nydia 
Velazquez, and Subcommittee on Rural and Urban 
Entrepreneurship, Small Business Committee Chair Heath Shuler. 
The bill was referred to the Committee on Small Business.
    The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on May 16, 
2007, and heard from the SBA's Acting Assistant Administrator 
for the Office of Entrepreneurial Development on the 
Administration's views on the legislation. Additionally, the 
Committee received testimony from the Pennsylvania Small 
Business Development Center, the New Mexico Small Business 
Development Center, and the Association of Women's Business 
Centers who testified on the merits of the legislation.
    The Committee on Small Business met in open session on May 
23, 2007, and ordered H.R. 2366 reported to the House with a 
favorable recommendation by a voice vote.
    On June 18, 2007, the House considered H.R. 2366 and passed 
the bill by a voice vote. On June 19, 2007, the bill was 
received in the Senate, read twice, and placed on Senate 
Legislative Calendar under General Orders.
    No further action was taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

               THE SMALL ENERGY EFFICIENT BUSINESSES ACT

           (H.R. 2389, AND LATER INCORPORATE INTO H.R. 3221)

A bill to help small businesses to develop, invest in, and 
purchase energy efficient buildings, fixtures, equipment, and 
technology.

Summary

    H.R. 2389, the Small Energy Efficient Business Act (SEEBA) 
provides information, technical assistance, and access to 
capital to help small businesses implement, develop, and market 
energy efficient goods, products, and services. The bill 
requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) to adapt 
existing lending and investment programs to provide incentives 
and needed capital for small business energy innovations and 
improvements.
    The bill establishes a new lending program that would 
provide 7(a) loans that cost half the upfront guaranty and 
ongoing annual lender fees of regular 7(a) loans and a 90 
percent guarantee if the proceeds of the loan are used to 
purchase or develop energy efficient technologies or reduce the 
borrower's energy consumption by 10 percent or more. The bill 
also permits small businesses to receive loans under the 
Certified Development Company Loan program (known as the 504 
program) if the proceeds of the loan are used to reduce the 
borrower's energy consumption by at least 10 percent.
    H.R. 2389 also adapts the SBA's investment programs to 
achieve increased investment in small businesses involved in 
the research, development, production, or marketing of energy 
efficient goods, products, or services by permitting licensed 
debenture SBICs to issue special Energy Saving (ES) Debentures 
that provide substantial benefits over existing debentures.
    H.R. 2389 also creates a new program within the Small 
Business Investment Act of 1958 called the ``Renewable Fuel 
Capital Investment Company'' (RFCIC) program. This program will 
authorize the creation of new Renewable Fuel Capital Investment 
Companies (RFCICs) that issue SBA guaranteed debentures to 
invest in small businesses engaged in researching, 
manufacturing, developing, and bringing to market renewable 
energy sources. The debentures have discounts and deferred 
interest to reflect the development period.
    The bill also reforms other SBA programs to make the agency 
a focal point for national small business energy strategy. H.R. 
2389 directs the administrator of the SBA to develop and carry-
out a national program to collect and provide small businesses 
with information about methods to promote energy savings-
including best practices, energy saving equipment and 
operations, and the latest information on renewable energy 
sources. Additionally, the administrator is directed to produce 
a strategy for helping small businesses understand the cost 
savings from improved energy efficiency and identify programs 
that can help finance small business upgrades for this system.
    H.R. 2389 also establishes a new program under which Small 
Business Development Centers (SBDCs) can apply for special 
grants to help small and medium-sized firms evaluate energy 
efficiency and green building opportunities, understand the 
cost benefits of the efficiency measures or green building, 
secure financing to achieve energy efficiency or construction 
of green buildings, and empower management to implement energy 
efficiency projects.

Legislative history

    H.R. 2389 was introduced by Congressman Heath Shuler on May 
17, 2007. Small Business Committee Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez 
was an original cosponsor. The bill was referred to the 
Committee on Small Business.
    The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on May 16, 
2007, and heard from the Small Business administration on its 
views concerning H.R. 2389. The Committee also received 
testimony from representatives from the Wharton School in 
affiliation with the Pennsylvania Small Business Development 
Center, and the Sustainable Energy Coalition who testified in 
support of the bill.
    The Committee on Small Business met in open session on May 
23, 2007, and ordered H.R. 2389 reported to the House, with no 
amendments, by a voice vote.
    This bill text was generally incorporated in H.R. 3221, 
Division A, the New Direction for Energy Independence, National 
Security, and Consumer Protection Act. On August 4, 2007, H.R. 
3221 passed the House by a vote of 241 to 172. Further, the 
provisions of H.R. 2389 that were incorporated into H.R. 3221 
were generally incorporated into the Omnibus energy legislation 
which was enacted in H.R. 6, and which became Public Law 110-
140 on December 19, 2007.

             THE SBA WOMEN'S BUSINESS PROGRAMS ACT OF 2007

                              (H.R. 2397)

To reauthorize the women's entrepreneurial development programs 
of the Small Business Administration, and for other purposes.

Summary

    The SBA Women's Business Programs Act of 2007, H.R. 2397, 
amends key sections of the Small Business Act to support the 
continued growth of women entrepreneurs, especially from 
underserved communities, including socio-economically 
disadvantaged and rural areas. The bill strengthens existing 
entrepreneurial development programs at the agency to ensure 
they continue to serve a unique and important role assisting 
women business owners.
    H.R. 2397 supports the growth of women entrepreneurs in two 
ways: enhancing research conducted on women entrepreneurship 
issues; and establishing a more targeted approach to funding 
Women's Business Centers. The bill requires the National 
Women's Business Council to consult with Congress and conduct 
at least one study per year on current issues affecting women 
entrepreneurs. It also mandates that the Council update the 
Committee on modifications to its plans and programs. A funding 
forma is established that allocated federal resources to both 
new and existing Women's Business Centers, which provide 
outreach and entrepreneurial development assistance through a 
network of sites located throughout the country. The bill 
promotes the expansion of these centers into underserved areas 
by reducing the matchmaking requirement for communities lacking 
investment and requiring centers to target their programs to 
clients in these communities.

Legislative history

    H.R. 2397 was introduced by Congresswoman Mary Fallin on 
May 21, 2007. Cosponsors included the Subcommittee on 
Contracting and Technology, Small Business Committee Chair 
Bruce Braley and Representative Albert Wynn. The bill was 
referred to the Committee on Small Business.
    The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on May 16, 
2007, and heard from the SBA's Acting Assistant Administrator 
for the Office of Entrepreneurial Development on the 
Administration's views on the legislation. Additionally, the 
Committee received testimony from the Pennsylvania Small 
Business Development Center, the New Mexico Small Business 
Development Center, and the Association of Women's Business 
Centers who testified on the merits of the legislation.
    The Committee on Small Business met in open session on May 
23, 2007, and ordered H.R. 2397 reported to the House with a 
favorable recommendation by a voice vote.
    On June 18, 2007, the House considered H.R. 2397 and passed 
the bill by a voice vote. On June 19, 2007, the bill was 
received in the Senate, read twice, and referred to the 
Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.
    No further action was taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

 SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION DISASTER LOAN PROGRAM PROVISIONS IN THE 
               FOOD, CONSERVATION, AND ENERGY ACT OF 2008

                              (H.R. 2419)

Summary

    H.R. 2419 establishes two bridge loan programs for private 
sector lenders. In a catastrophic disaster, the SBA can 
authorize private lenders to make 180 day loans of up to 
$150,000 at not more then 1 percent over the prime rate to 
businesses that are otherwise eligible for a disaster loan. In 
all disasters, private lenders can make loans of up to $25,000 
and receive an SBA guaranty within 36 hours for up to 85 
percent of the loan amount. Both loans would be transitioned 
into a standard SBA disaster loan once it has been made. These 
bridge loans will get financial assistance to businesses while 
they await processing or disbursement of their conventional SBA 
loan or insurance payments.
    This bill also creates a program to allow private lenders 
to make disaster loans after a catastrophic disaster. These 
loans will carry the same terms and benefits as conventional 
SBA disaster loans. All lenders would be eligible to make loans 
to small businesses, but only lenders who are preferred lenders 
in the 7(a) program could make loans to individuals. The bill 
also provides the SBA with authority to pay a fee to private 
lenders to process loans during times when the SBA's processing 
capabilities are overwhelmed in order to prevent application 
backlogs and ensure timely approval and disbursement of loan 
proceeds.
    The bill authorizes the SBA to make economic injury 
disaster loans to businesses located outside the geographic 
area of a catastrophic disaster, if they suffer economic injury 
as a direct result of the disaster. The businesses must have 
suffered identifiable economic injury as a direct result of the 
disaster, and this program will only be available in periods 
for which the Administrator has declared eligibility for 
additional disaster assistance.
    The bill raises the maximum amount of an SBA disaster loan 
from the current level of $1,500,000 to $2,000,000, and raises 
the maximum amount of unsecured disaster loans from $10,000 to 
$14,000. It also gives the SBA Administrator the authority to 
make new disaster loans and refinance existing loans from 
Hurricanes Katrina and Rita with a four-year deferment period.
    The bill adds several requirements to improve the SBA's 
coordination with FEMA. The agency will also be required to 
conduct biennial disaster simulation exercises and create a 
comprehensive disaster response plan for various disaster 
scenarios. The SBA will be required to improve its 
communication with the public when disaster assistance is made 
available. The bill also creates a new position for a high-
level disaster planning expert who will operate independently 
from the Office of Disaster Assistance and will oversee the 
disaster planning and readiness of the agency. Finally, the 
bill will ensure that the SBA maintains adequate loan 
processing staff and reserve cadre.

Legislative history

    On April 9, 2008, Chairwoman Velazquez, Ranking Member 
Chabot, and Representative Chabot were appointed as conferees 
for consideration of SBA disaster loan program provisions 
contained in subtitle D of title XI of the Senate amendment to 
H.R. 2419, the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008. The 
final Conference report contained these provisions, as amended, 
regarding the SBA's disaster loan program in Subtitle B of 
Title XII.
    On May 14, 2008 the Conference report to H.R. 2419 (H. 
Rept. 110-627) was agreed to in the House by recorded vote of 
318-106 (Roll no. 315).
    On May 15, 2008, the Conference report was agreed to in the 
Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 81-15. (Record Vote Number: 130). H.R. 
2419 was subsequently presented to President on May 20, 2008 
and vetoed by the President on May 21, 2008.
    On May 21, 2008, H.R. 2419 passed the House over veto, two-
thirds of the Members present having voted in the affirmative 
by a vote of 316-108 (Roll no. 346).
    On May 22, 2008, H.R. 2419 passed the Senate over veto by 
Yea-Nay Vote of 82-13 (Record Vote Number: 140), and became 
Public Law No: 110-234.

                   THE SBA TRADE PROGRAMS ACT OF 2007

                              (H.R. 2992)

To amend the Small Business Act to improve trade programs, and 
for other purposes.

Summary

    H.R. 2992, the SBA Trade Programs Act of 2007, amends key 
sections of the Small Business Act to enhance the agency's 
institutional focus on the global pressures and opportunities 
for small businesses operating in a market without borders. The 
legislation targets resources for the agency's export 
assistance programs and establishes a new mandate to help small 
businesses prepare for competition against increasing foreign 
competitors in domestic and global markets.
    H.R. 2992 modernizes the agency's trade programs through 
four components. The bill provides for the agency's expanded 
role integrating small business needs into international trade 
commitments and national policies. It also mandates that the 
agency develops and coordinate the implementation of a small-
business based trade strategy and a system to track these 
firms' benefits from the use of Federal trade promotion 
resources. Trade remedy and dispute assistance tools are 
developed to prepare these firms against unfair trade practices 
and to safeguard their patents, trademarks and copyrights in 
foreign countries. Trade adjustment assistance resources, 
including technical and financial assistance, are established 
for small firms dislocated due to global economic trends. 
Financing and technical assistance resources at the agency are 
also expanded for eligible small and medium sized exporters.

Legislative history

    H.R. 2992 was introduced by Congressman John Hall on July 
11, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee Chairwoman 
Nydia Velazquez, Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology, 
Small Business Committee Chair Bruce Braley, and Committee Vice 
Chair Joe Sestak. Other original Cosponsors included 
Representatives Henry Cuellar, Yvette Clarke, and Daniel 
Lipinski. The bill was referred to the Committee on Small 
Business.
    The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on July 5, 
2007, and heard from the SBA's Associate Administrator for 
Capital Access at the U.S. Small Business Administration on the 
Administration's views on the legislation. Additionally, the 
Committee received testimony from the Small Business Exporters 
Association of the United States and the Precision Metalforming 
Association who testified on the merits of the legislation 
testified in support of its provisions.
    The Committee on Small Business met in open session on July 
19, 2007, and ordered H.R. 2992 reported to the House with a 
favorable recommendation by a voice vote.
    On September 4, 2007, the House considered H.R. 2992 and 
passed the bill by a voice vote. On September 5, 2007, the bill 
was received in the Senate, read twice, and referred to the 
Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.
    No further action was taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

           THE MICROLOAN AMENDMENTS MODERNIZATION ACT OF 2007

                              (H.R. 3020)

To amend the Small Business Act to improve the Microloan 
program, and for other purposes.

Summary

    H.R. 3020, The Microloan Amendments and Modernization Act 
(MAMA) will encourage participation in the Microloan program by 
qualified intermediaries (technical assistance providers and 
lenders) and aspiring entrepreneurs. H.R. 3020 amends the 
program for the first time in eight years and responds to 
observations about barriers to participation indicated to the 
Committee by intermediaries/lenders, business participants and 
academics who have studied the program. The Small Business 
Administration (SBA), which operates the program, is directed 
to help in this effort and to work with the intermediaries to 
find a way to report the repayment records of borrowers to 
major credit agencies and expand their capital access options. 
In addition, the Committee wants to move the Program for 
Investment in MicroEnterprise (PRIME) into the Small Business 
Act merging the program's authorization with most of the other 
programs run by the SBA.
    The bill makes changes to the terms that can be offered on 
loans to allow more flexibility. The current statute requires 
intermediary lenders to offer only ``short-term'' loans. 
However, longer-term loans or revolving credit allowed by the 
bill would permit micro-business participants to have greater 
latitude in managing their debt obligations, potentially 
increasing their profitability. In addition, disabled borrowers 
will be specifically identified as an intended beneficiary of 
microloans in the ``purpose'' section of the statute, in the 
same manner as current law recognizes women business owners, 
minority business owners and other deserving groups. Finally, 
SBA is directed to help ensure that repayment histories of the 
program's borrowers are duly reported to enhance the credit 
score of microloan participants and broaden their access to 
low-cost financing.
    H.R. 3020 promotes greater intermediary participation. It 
modernizes the statutory ceiling on the ``average loan size'' 
so more intermediaries can qualify for the most favorable 
interest rate (2 percent below federal borrowing rate on 5-year 
Treasury notes) raising it to $10,000. H.R. 3020 sets out the 
kind of equivalent lending and counseling experience that would 
allow a well-trained employee to help a new non-profit 
participant qualify as an intermediary. In addition, the bill 
raises the amount of the technical assistance grant that can be 
used for this ``pre-loan'' assistance and 3rd party training to 
35 percent from its current level of 25 percent. Finally, H.R. 
3020 moves the entire PRIME initiative into the Small Business 
Act and clarifies that the SBA has authority to administer the 
PRIME program.

Legislative history

    H.R. 3020 was introduced by Representative Chabot on July 
12, 2007 and that day the full Committee held a legislative 
hearing on H.R. 3020, the Microloan Amendments and 
Modernization Act which was attended by the Associate 
Administrator of the SBA for Capital Access, Dr. Michael Hager, 
who provided the Administration's views on H.R. 3020. In 
addition, three witnesses spoke directly to the impact of the 
legislation on the microloan program. Kristie Darien, the 
Executive Director of the National Association of the Self 
Employed; Mr. Kevin Kelly of the Association of Enterprise 
Organizations; and Dr. Cordero-Guzman of Baruch College, CUNY, 
who presented the highlights of his recent study that found 
that micro-lending can be a very valuable tool for starting 
small businesses.
    The Committee on Small Business met in open session on July 
19, 2007 to consider H.R. 3020 the Microloan Amendments and 
Modernization Act and any amendments. The Committee accepted an 
amendment in the nature of a substitute offered by Chairwoman 
Velazquez by voice vote. No further amendments were offered. 
The bill was ordered reported as amended to the House of 
Representatives by a voice vote. The bill was considered on 
September 4, 2007 under a suspension of the rules and passed 
the House by a vote of 385 to 5. On September 5, 2007 H.R. 3020 
was received by the Senate, read twice and referred to the 
Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.
    No further action was taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

TO PROVIDE FOR AN ADDITIONAL TEMPORARY EXTENSION OF PROGRAMS UNDER THE 
   SMALL BUSINESS ACT AND THE SMALL BUSINESS INVESTMENT ACT OF 1958 
           THROUGH DECEMBER 15, 2007, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

                              (H.R. 3206)

Summary

    H.R. 3206 extended the programs authorized under the Small 
Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 
through December 15, 2007.

Legislative history

    H.R. 3206 was introduced by Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez on 
July 27, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee 
Ranking Member Steve Chabot. The bill was referred to the 
Committee on Small Business.
    On July 30, 2007, the House considered H.R. 3206 under 
suspension of the rules and was passed by voice vote.
    On July 31, 2007, H.R. 3206 was received in the Senate and 
was passed by unanimous consent. On August 8, 2007, the 
legislation was signed by the President and became Public Law 
110-57.

            SMALL BUSINESS INVESTMENT EXPANSION ACT OF 2007

                              (H.R. 3567)

A bill to update and expand the Small Business Administration's 
Investment and Surety Bond programs.

Summary

    The Small Business Investment Expansion Act of 2007 is 
aimed at three broad goals. First, the bill updates and 
streamlines three programs in the Small Business Investment Act 
of 1958, the Small Business Investment Company (SBIC), New 
Markets Venture Capital (NMVC) and Surety Bond programs. 
Second, the bill will leverage a new investment strategy, angel 
investing, to direct more venture capital toward early stage 
and startup businesses. Finally, the bill will revise SBA rules 
that inhibit the free flow of venture capital investment to 
small businesses.
    To streamline the SBIC program, this legislation will 
simplify the current method of calculating maximum leverage 
caps in favor of a straightforward maximum leverage cap that 
will remain workable for years to come. The bill will also 
revise limitations on aggregate investments to establish 
limitations that are more consistent with industry accepted 
portfolio risk management practices. Additional provisions of 
the bill will increase overall investment in smaller 
enterprises and will also establish incentives to form SBIC 
funds focused on investment in minority and women owned 
businesses.
    The New Markets Venture Capital program will also be 
updated with provisions that emphasize expanding the program 
and provide additional incentives for investment in small 
manufacturing companies in low-income areas. The final approval 
process for conditionally approved NMVC companies will be 
streamlined by establishing simplified application documents 
and permitting conditionally approved NMVC companies to receive 
funding for operational assistance. The operational assistance 
aspect will also be improved by eliminating the requirement 
that NMVC companies raise matching commitments prior to final 
approval and by simplifying the process for operational grant 
assistance. Finally, appropriations for the NMVC program will 
authorized in a total amount of $35 million ($30 million to 
support debentures and $5 million for operational assistance 
grants), of which not less than one quarter must be used to 
support NMVC companies that invest primarily in small 
manufacturers.
    The bill will also establish a new Office of Angel 
Investment within the SBA's Investment Division. This office 
will be headed by a Director of Angel Investment and will focus 
on three initiatives to increase equity investment in small 
businesses.
    First, an Angel Investment Program will be established to 
provide eligible angel groups that have ten or more angel 
investors with matching financing leverage. This leverage will 
be used to finance early stage small businesses, with priority 
in financing going to angel groups that invest in small 
businesses controlled by veterans, women, or socially and 
economically disadvantaged small businesses. This leverage will 
be repaid to the SBA with a pro rata share of returns from the 
investment. Appropriations for the purpose of providing 
leverage to angel groups will be authorized in a total amount 
of $50 million.
    Second, a directive will be established within the Office 
of Angel Investment to create a Federal Angel Network. This 
network will be a searchable directory of angel groups 
available on through the SBA's internet website. Additionally, 
the directory could be distributed or used by other networks to 
increase its exposure. The directory will include the names and 
contact information for angel groups and angel investors and 
will provide information about the types of investments each 
group or investor has made. One million dollars will be 
authorized to be appropriated for the establishment of the 
angel network.
    The Angel Investment Program will also include, a grant 
initiative to provide eligible state, federal, and nonprofit 
entities with resources to increase awareness and education 
about angel investing. As a condition of receiving grant 
assistance, however, eligible entities must provide 50 percent 
matching contributions, thus amplifying the benefits of grant 
assistance. This provision will bring more attention to the 
benefits of angel investing and attract more angel investors to 
participate in the program. A total of $4.5 million will be 
authorized for appropriations to carry out this initiative.
    The bill will also address deficiencies in the Surety Bond 
program. The maximum permissible bond amount will be increased 
by half to $3 million. The bill will also strengthen surety 
companies' confidence in the Plan A program by barring the SBA 
from denying indemnity on Plan A guaranties based upon 
information that was provided as part of the guaranty 
application. The SBA will also be required to conduct a study 
on the program's current funding structure and report its 
findings to Congress within 180 days of the bill's enactment. 
The bill will make the Surety Bond program more affordable to 
small businesses and surety companies by providing the SBA with 
authority to contribute funds for the purpose of reducing the 
burden associated with surety and contractor fees on bond 
guarantees.
    Finally, the bill modifies the Small Business Act to 
exclude venture capital investment in SBA's consideration of 
whether a firm is small for the purposes of the Act. The 
provision provides that when calculating the number of 
employees of a small business concern that has venture capital 
investment, the SBA will exclude those employees who work for 
companies affiliated with the venture capital company. The bill 
requires that the venture capital company comply, as 
appropriate, with federal registration requirements for 
investment companies. In addition, the bill prevents a venture 
capital that is controlled by a large business or a venture 
capital company with more than 500 employees from being 
recognized as a venture capital company under this provision.

Legislative history

    H.R. 3567 was introduced by Congressman Jason Altmire on 
September 18, 2007. Original Cosponsors included 
Representatives Sam Graves and Chairwoman of the Small Business 
Committee, Nydia Velazquez. The bill was referred to the 
Committee on Small Business.
    The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on 
September, 6, 2007, and heard from SBA Administrator Preston on 
the Administration's views on the legislative precursor to H.R. 
3567. Additionally, the Committee received testimony from the 
National Venture Capital Association, the Biotechnology 
Industry Organization, the Information Technology and 
Innovation Foundation, the National Association of Small 
Business Investment Companies, the American Insurance 
Association and the Surety and Fidelity Association of America, 
and Community Development Venture Capital Alliance, who all 
testified in support of the proposed legislation.
    The Committee on Small Business met in open session on 
September 25, 2007, and ordered H.R. 3567 reported to the 
House, with no amendments, by a voice vote.
    On September 26, 2007, the House adopted H. Res. 682, 
providing for consideration of H.R. 3567 under a modified open 
rule, by a record vote of 222-181. Also on that day, the House 
considered H.R. 3567 and passed the bill with four amendments, 
by a record vote of 325 ayes and 72 nays. On September 28, 
2007, the bill was received in the Senate, read twice and 
referred to the Committee on Small Business and 
Entrepreneurship.
    No further action was taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

                  SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAMS ACT OF 2007

                              (H.R. 3866)

Summary

    H.R. 3866, the Small Business Programs Act of 2007, 
provides authorization levels for the Small Business 
Administration's (SBA) programs for fiscal years 2008 and 2009. 
This includes loan levels for the 7(a), 7(m), and 504 loan 
programs, as well as for the Small Business Investment Company 
program. In addition, the legislation provides authorization 
levels for entrepreneurial programs, including the Small 
Business Development Center and the Women's Business Center 
programs. Finally, it provides authorization levels for the 
PRIME, BusinessLINC, HUBZone, the Office of Veterans Business 
Development, the Advisory Committee on Veterans Business 
Affairs extension, and National Women's Business Council.

Legislative history

    H.R. 3866 was introduced in the House by Rep. Velazquez on 
October 17, 2007. Original co-sponsors included Committee 
Member Ms. Clarke. The bill was referred to the House Committee 
on Small Business.
    On September 27, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held 
a hearing, and heard from the SBA Deputy Administrator on the 
agency's views on the legislation. Other witnesses included the 
Association for Enterprise Opportunity, the National 
Association of Development Companies, the Association of Small 
Business Development Centers, and the Credit Union National 
Association.
    The Committee on Small Business met in open session on 
October 18, 2007, and ordered H.R. 3866 reported to the House 
with a favorable recommendation by voice vote. On November 6, 
2007, the bill was considered by the House under a motion to 
suspend the rules and pass the bill. The bill passed the House 
by voice vote. On November 8, 2007, H.R. 3867 was received in 
the Senate. On January 22, 2008, the Senate read the 
legislation twice and referred it to the Committee on Small 
Business and Entrepreneurship.
    No further action has been taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

          SMALL BUSINESS CONTRACTING PROGRAM IMPROVEMENTS ACT

                              (H.R. 3867)

To update and expand the procurement programs of the Small 
Business Administration.

Summary

    H.R. 3867, the Small Business Contracting Program 
Improvements Act, modifies, updates, and in one case, 
implements procurement programs offered by the Small Business 
Administration (SBA). These programs include the procurement 
program for service-disabled veterans, the women's procurement 
program, the HUBZone program and the 8(a) program. The bill 
also corrects a number of inconsistencies in the management of 
these programs so that they operate similarly. Lastly, the 
legislation modifies the treatment of franchises by the SBA and 
provides a sense of Congress with respect to the treatment of 
small businesses under the General Services Administration's 
Federal Supply Schedules, among other matters.
    The measure expands procurement opportunities for 
businesses owned and controlled by service disabled veterans by 
making the procurement program for these companies mandatory 
rather than discretionary, thus ensuring that these firms are 
the first choice among small businesses for federal contracts. 
New penalties are imposed for companies that falsely represent 
their status as service-disabled veteran-owned. Teeth are added 
to Executive Order 13360 requiring that the SBA fulfill its 
obligations under the Order. Additionally, the bill ensures 
that severely service-disabled veterans have the highest 
priority for federal contracts.
    By imposing a standard of business integrity, applying both 
prime and subcontracting goals, standardizing the size of 
contracts eligible, and expanding bid protest authority, the 
bill ensures that all of the SBA's procurement programs operate 
in the same manner.
    The legislation allows the women's procurement program to 
be fully implemented upon enactment. By identifying the 
industries in which women are under-represented, the bill 
removes the uncertainties that have kept the program from 
getting up and running.
    To ensure that only eligible companies receive contracts, 
the bill requires verification of a HUBZone firm's status prior 
to the award of the business's second contract awarded with the 
HUBZone preference. The bill also limits construction contracts 
to within 150 miles of the company's eligible HUBZone and 
requires an evaluation by the SBA to identify whether eligible 
areas are being overlooked in the current calculation for 
identification of HUBZones.
    The Small Business Contracting Program Improvements Act 
also updates the SBA's 8(a) program. It does this by providing 
an inflationary adjustment to the entry net worth limitation 
and removes that restriction once a company has been certified. 
The program's nine-year limitation will be extended by one year 
and the ten years will be divided between a six-year 
developmental phase and a four-year transitional phase. The SBA 
will be required to report on what changes are needed to the 
program to ensure that companies with less equity in their 
business than others are able to receive access to contracts. 
The agency will also be tasked with reporting on an examination 
of whether more individuals should be presumed to be socially 
disadvantaged, and on the status of the implementation of 
legislation designed to streamline state departments of 
transportation applications for disadvantaged business 
certification for companies who are already 8(a) program 
participants.
    The legislation also relaxes the affiliation standard for 
franchises in the temporary employment industry to comport with 
common industry practices. It provides for a sense of the House 
that small business-only competitions should be allowed for GSA 
Federal Supply Schedule vendors. The SBA must conduct a study 
evaluating whether frivolous bid protests are being used to 
delay contract performance periods to the detriment of small 
businesses, and must create a liaison position to interface 
with the Department of Homeland Security for the purpose of 
ensuring that small businesses who employ undocumented workers 
are not able to participate in SBA's contracting programs. 
Lastly, the bill prohibits SBA employees from purchasing first- 
or business-class airline accommodations.

Legislative history

    H.R. 3867 was introduced in the House by Rep. Velazquez on 
October 17, 2007. Original co-sponsors included Committee 
Members Ms. Fallin and Ms. Clarke, as well as Rep. Silvestre 
Reyes. The bill was referred to the House Committee on Small 
Business.
    On October 4, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing, and heard from the SBA Administrator on the 
Administration's views on the legislation. Other witnesses 
included the American Legion, the U.S. Women's Chamber of 
Commerce, and the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the 
National Small Business Association who testified in support of 
the bill's provisions. An attorney in private practice also 
testified.
    The Committee on Small Business met in open session on 
October 18, 2007, and ordered H.R. 3867 reported to the House 
with a favorable recommendation by a recorded vote of 21 yeas 
and 4 nays. On October 30, 2007, the bill was considered by the 
House under a structured rule. Ten amendments were made in 
order under the rule. All ten amendments were approved by voice 
votes. The bill passed the House with a vote of 334 yeas and 80 
nays. On November 1, 2007, H.R. 3867 was received in the 
Senate, read twice and referred to the Committee on Small 
Business and Entrepreneurship.
    No further action has been taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

TO PROVIDE FOR AN ADDITIONAL TEMPORARY EXTENSION OF PROGRAMS UNDER THE 
   SMALL BUSINESS ACT AND THE SMALL BUSINESS INVESTMENT ACT OF 1958 
              THROUGH MAY 23, 2008, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

                              (H.R. 4252)

Summary

    H.R. 4252 extended the programs authorized under the Small 
Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 
through May 23, 2008.

Legislative history

    H.R. 4252 was introduced by Ranking Member Steve Chabot on 
December 4, 2007. Original Cosponsors included the Committee 
Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez. The bill was referred to the 
Committee on Small Business.
    On December 5, 2007, the House considered H.R. 4252 under 
suspension of the rules and was passed by voice vote.
    On December 7, 2007, H.R. 4252 was received in the Senate 
and was passed by unanimous consent. On December 14, 2007, the 
legislation was signed by the President and became Public Law 
110-136.

   MILITARY RESERVIST AND VETERAN SMALL BUSINESS REAUTHORIZATION AND 
                        OPPORTUNITY ACT OF 2007

                              (H.R. 4253)

A bill to improve and expand small business assistance programs 
for veterans of the armed forces and military reservists.

Summary

    H.R. 4253, the Military Reservist and Veteran Small 
Business Reauthorization and Opportunity Act of 2007, makes 
several improvements to the SBA's lending and entrepreneurial 
development programs to benefit veterans of the U.S. military. 
The bill increases funding for the SBA's Office of Veterans' 
Business Development and requires the SBA to increase the 
number of Veterans Business Outreach Centers throughout the 
U.S.
    The bill establishes an interagency task force consisting 
of senior level representatives from the SBA as well as from 
several other Federal agencies and representatives from 
veteran's service organizations to coordinate the efforts of 
Federal agencies to improve and expand access to veteran's 
services and programs. The bill also establishes a National 
Reservist Enterprise Transition and Sustainability program 
through which the SBA will provide competitive grant awards to 
Small Business Development Centers, Women's Business Centers, 
Veterans Business Outreach Centers, and any other veteran's 
business assistance program so that they may provide veteran-
owned businesses with management, financing, procurement, 
technical, and regulatory assistance.
    The bill also makes several changes to the SBA's disaster 
assistance program to simplify and improve the agency's ability 
to provide military deployment economic injury disaster 
(MREIDL) loans. The bill increases the maximum loan amount from 
$1.5 million to $2 million and authorizes the SBA to make 
MREIDLoans of up to $50 thousand without collateral. The bill 
also directs the SBA to give priority in consideration to 
MREIDL loan applications prior to processing, approving, or 
disbursing other disaster loans.
    Finally, H.R. 4253 establishes an Increased Veteran 
Participation Program to provide veteran-owned small businesses 
with improved access to the SBA's largest lending program, the 
7(a) loan program. Loans made under the Increased Veteran 
Participation Program would have no borrower guaranty fee, no 
ongoing annual lender fee, and would provide up to a 90 percent 
guarantee for veteran-owned small businesses.

Legislative history

    H.R. 4253 was introduced by Congressman Jason Altmire on 
December 4, 2007. Original co-sponsors for H.R. 4253 included 
Congressman Vern Buchanan (FL-13), Congressman Steve Chabot 
(OH-1), and Chairwoman of the Small Business Committee, Nydia 
Velazquez (NY-12). The bill was referred to the Committee on 
Small Business.
    On December 5, 2007, the House considered H.R. 4253 under 
suspension of the rules (CR H14218-14223). At the conclusion of 
debate, the yeas and nays were demanded and ordered. On motion 
to suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 4253 was passed by 
a record vote of 407 yeas to 2 nays (Roll no. 1138).
    On December 7, 2007, H.R. 4253 was received in the Senate. 
On December 19, 2007, the Senate struck all after the enacting 
clause and inserted in lieu S. 1784. This passed the Senate by 
unanimous consent on the same day. On January 16, 2008, the 
House agreed to the Senate amendment with an amendment pursuant 
to H. Res. 921. On January 31, 2008, the Senate agreed to the 
House amendment to the amendment. On February 14, 2008, the 
legislation was signed by the President and became Public Law 
110-86.

               SMALL BUSINESS REGULATORY IMPROVEMENT ACT

                              (H.R. 4458)

To amend chapter 6 of title 5, United States Code (commonly 
known as the Regulatory Flexibility Act), to ensure complete 
analysis of potential impacts on small entities of rules, and 
for other purposes.

Summary

    H.R. 4458 seeks to require federal agencies to fully 
consider the economic impacts of regulations on small 
businesses, improve agency reviews of existing rules affecting 
small firms, and give small businesses a greater voice in the 
rulemaking process.
    One of the biggest loopholes in the Regulatory Flexibility 
Act is that it does not define what constitutes an ``economic 
impact'' on small businesses. Under current law, agencies are 
not required to consider indirect economic impacts of rules on 
small businesses. Agencies are using this loophole to avoid 
conducting analysis where an economic impact of a rule is 
reasonably foreseeable on small firms. H.R. 4458 closes this 
loophole by requiring agencies to consider reasonably 
foreseeable indirect impacts. The Government Accountability 
Office has reported that agency compliance with Section 610 of 
RegFlex has been minimal. Section 610 requires agencies to 
review existing rules periodically and to consider eliminating 
unnecessary requirements to reduce the overall regulatory 
burden on small entities. Poor compliance has been attributed 
to a lack of clarity in RegFlex. H.R. 4458 clarifies to 
agencies what rules need to be reviewed and when reviews need 
to be conducted. In addition, the legislation codifies 
Executive Order 13272, which requires agencies to notify the 
Office of Advocacy of proposed rules that may impact small 
businesses before such rules are published in the Federal 
Register. Earlier notification will provide the Office of 
Advocacy with a greater opportunity to assist agencies in 
RegFlex compliance.

Legislative history

    On December 6, 2007, the Committee held a hearing on 
Legislation to Improve the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The 
Chief Counsel for Advocacy at the Small Business 
Administration, Thomas M. Sullivan delivered testimony. 
Representatives of small businesses discussed the legislation 
and how it would increase the effectiveness of the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act. H.R. 4458 was introduced by Mr. Ellsworth on 
December 12, 2007 and referred to the Committee on the 
Judiciary and, in addition, to the Committee on Small Business. 
On November 14, the Committee on Small Business ordered the 
measure reported by a vote of 26 yeas and no nays. No further 
action has been taken on the legislation.

                     SBIR/STTR REAUTHORIZATION ACT

                              (H.R. 5819)

To amend the Small Business Act to improve the Small Business 
Innovation Research (SBIR) program and the Small Business 
Technology Transfer (STTR) program, and for other purposes.

Summary

    The SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act extends for a period of 
two years the Federal government's largest small business 
research and development programs. The legislation modernizes 
the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, changing 
the legislative guidelines and policies in order to update the 
program in response to the unique challenges facing small 
research companies and the changing research priorities of 
Federal agencies.
    The Act is aimed at three broad goals. First, the bill 
seeks to encourage greater participation in SBIR. An increase 
in the number of small businesses applying for SBIR is critical 
to the on-going success of the program. Second, the bill 
permits small companies that are majority-owned by qualifying 
venture capital firms to participate in the SBIR program. A 
2003 ruling by the Small Business Administration (SBA) has made 
small firms with large investments from venture capital 
companies ineligible to participate in the SBIR program. The 
SBA ruling forces many small businesses to choose between 
accepting investments from venture capital firms and 
participating in the Federal government's largest R&D program 
for small research firms. Third, the bill seeks to encourage 
and support commercialization initiatives at Federal agencies 
that administer SBIR programs. Under current law certain 
Federal agencies have the authority to develop 
commercialization programs. This bill extends to all agencies 
the authority to develop programs designed to support the 
commercialization of SBIR-funded research.
    Additionally, the bill seeks to codify in statute the 
programmatic flexibility that Federal agencies need in order to 
administer SBIR awards in a manner that is most consistent with 
the agency's specific mission. The SBIR policy directive issued 
by the SBA has provided a great deal of autonomy to the Federal 
agencies, the bill codifies agency autonomy with respect to 
administering their SBIR programs. Along with granting to 
Federal agencies a great degree of autonomy, the bill also 
requires Federal agencies to establish more concrete goals and 
objectives with respect to their SBIR programs and directs the 
agencies to provide Congress with more regular reports.

Legislative history

    In the 110th Congress, the Committee on Small Business 
convened three hearings on the reauthorization of the SBIR 
program. On January 29, 2008, the House Committee on Small 
Business convened a hearing entitled ``SBIR: America's 
Technology Development Incubator.'' The hearing explored the 
numerous contributions that the SBIR program makes to national 
security priorities, economic development objectives and 
America's international economic competitiveness. On February 
13, 2008 the House Committee on Small Business, Subcommittee on 
Investigations and Oversight convened a hearing entitled 
``SBIR: Advancing Medical Innovations.'' The Subcommittee 
hearing examined the impact of the SBIR program on the 
development of innovative medical technologies, therapies and 
products. On March 13, 2008 the Committee on Small Business 
held a hearing to review a Committee Print of proposed 
legislation that would reauthorize and modernize the SBIR 
program. The Committee on Small Business met in open session on 
April 17, 2008 and ordered H.R. 5819 reported, as amended, to 
the House by a recorded vote. Only one amendment, offered by 
Ms. Velazquez, was offered at the markup. That amendment was 
adopted by voice vote. The bill was ordered reported by a vote 
of 20-0.
    On April 23, 2008, the bill was considered by the House 
under a structured rule. Seventeen were made in order under the 
rule. Twelve amendments were approved by voice vote, three 
amendments were agreed to by recorded vote, and two amendments 
were withdrawn. The bill passed the House with a vote of 368 
yeas and 43 nays. On April 24, 2008, H.R. 5819 was received in 
the Senate, read twice and referred to the Committee on Small 
Business and Entrepreneurship.
    No further action has been taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

           SMALL BUSINESS FINANCING IMPROVEMENTS ACT OF 2008

                              (H.R. 7175)

To amend the Small Business Act to improve the section 7(a) 
lending program, and for other purposes.

Summary

    H.R. 7175, the Small Business Financing Improvements Act of 
2008, updates and streamlines the SBA's two largest small 
business finance programs, the 7(a) and 504 (also known as the 
Certified Development Company) programs, as well as the Small 
Business Investment Company (SBIC) program. The bill improves 
the efficiency of the secondary market for small commercial 
loans by permitting the pooling of such loans based on a 
weighted average interest of the underlying loans in the pool. 
In addition, the bill establishes an alternative size standard 
for the 7(a) program. This provision will provide a simplified 
standard for determining small business loan eligibility, 
encouraging greater lender participation in the 7(a) program.
    The Small Business Lending Improvements Act of 2007 also 
modernizes and improves the 504, Certified Development Company, 
program by making an array of technical changes to the program 
and addressing two of the program's most evident problems. The 
bill improves the program's ability to liquidate defaulted 
loans by permitting CDCs to either foreclose and liquidate 
defaulted loans or to contract with a qualified third party to 
do so. The bill enhances the ties between CDCs and the 
communities that they serve by requiring CDCs to include locals 
on the board of directors. The bill also establishes a uniform 
leasing policy, permits closing costs to be included in loan 
amounts, and provides for limited refinancing of existing debt.
    Finally, H.R. 7175 makes two important changes to the SBIC 
program. The bill simplifies the SBIC leverage cap rules to a 
single formula, regardless of the amount of private capital 
that the SBIC has, with a maximum leverage cap of $150 million. 
This will make ``transition'' leverage available for SBIC 
companies under common control so that successful SBICs may 
operate a second or third fund while still maintaining 
safeguards against increased risk to the SBA and a maximum 
leverage cap for SBICs under common control.
    In addition, the legislation revises the current limit on 
the amount that can be invested in any one portfolio company to 
standards that are more consistent with industry accepted 
portfolio risk management practices. This change would apply 
the portfolio management rule (``no more than 10 percent should 
be invested in any one company'') that is the accepted norm in 
the non-SBIC venture capital world and would ensure that SBIC 
management teams had both the financial and time resources 
required to help their portfolio companies achieve their growth 
goals.

Legislative history

    H.R. 7175 was introduced by Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez on 
September 27, 2008. Original Cosponsors included the Committee 
Ranking Member Steve Chabot and Committee Members Yvette 
Clarke, Henry Cuellar, and David Davis. The bill was referred 
to the Committee on Small Business.
    On September 27, 2008, the House considered H.R. 7175 under 
suspension of the rules. On September 29, 2008, the House 
passed H.R. 7175 by a recorded vote of 374 ayes and 6 nays. On 
September 30, 2008, the bill was received in the Senate.
    No further action was taken on this legislation in the 
110th Congress.

 RECOGNIZING THE PLUMBING INDUSTRY AND SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND IDEALS 
                 OF ``NATIONAL PLUMBING INDUSTRY WEEK''

                             (H. RES. 1082)

Summary

    H. Res. 1082 recognizes the importance of the plumbing 
industry and supports the goals and ideals of ``National 
Plumbing Industry Week.''

Legislative history

    H. Res. 1082 was introduced by Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez 
on April 8, 2008. Original Cosponsors included the Committee 
Ranking Member Steve Chabot. The bill was referred to the 
Committee on Small Business.
    On April 9, 2008, the House considered H. Res. 1082 under 
suspension of the rules and it passed by voice vote.

RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR OF THE FOUNDING OF MACY'S, INC., 
AS AN AMERICAN ENTREPRENEURIAL SUCCESS STORY AND THE ROLE MACY'S, INC., 
             PLAYS IN SUPPORTING AMERICA'S SMALL BUSINESSES

                             (H. RES. 1473)

Summary

    H. Res. 1473 recognizes the 150th anniversary year of the 
founding of Macy's, Inc., as an American entrepreneurial 
success story and the role Macy's, Inc., plays in supporting 
America's small businesses and vendors, including those that 
are minority and women owned; celebrating the vision, 
innovativeness, and ingenuity of all of our Nation's small 
businesses that aspire to grow and prosper as Macy's, Inc., has 
over its 150-year history; and congratulating Macy's, Inc., as 
an American entrepreneurial success story.

Legislative history

    H. Res. 1473 was introduced by Ranking Member Steve Chabot 
on September 22, 2008. Original Cosponsors included the 
Committee Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez. The bill was referred to 
the Committee on Small Business.
    On September 23, 2008, the House considered H. Res. 1473 
under suspension of the rules and it passed by voice vote.
                             Full Committee

                          Oversight Activities

    OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION'S ANNUAL BUDGET 
                               PROPOSALS

    On February 8, 2007 the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing of the SBA's proposed budget for FY 2008. This hearing 
included a review of the administration's funding requests as 
well as their key policy initiatives for the fiscal year. The 
Committee heard testimony from SBA Administrator Steven 
Preston.
                              ----------                              

    On February 7, 2008 the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing of the SBA's proposed budget for FY 2009. This hearing 
included a review of the administration's funding requests as 
well as their key policy initiatives for the fiscal year. The 
Committee heard testimony from SBA Administrator Steven 
Preston.

  OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION'S ACCESS TO CAPITAL 
                                PROGRAMS

    On March 1, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held an 
oversight hearing entitled, ``Increasing Access to Capital for 
Our Nation's Small Businesses.'' The purpose of the hearing was 
to examine the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in securing 
affordable financing. The Committee received testimony from the 
Deputy Associate Administrator for Capital Access at the Small 
Business Administration, who provided testimony on the current 
state of the SBA's 7(a) and Certified Development Company loan 
programs. The committee also received testimony from the 
Independent Community Bankers of America, the National 
Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders, the National 
Small Business Association, and from a small business owner who 
discussed ongoing deficiencies in the 7(a) and Certified 
Development Company loan programs.

  OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION'S INVESTMENT PROGRAMS

    On June 21, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held an 
oversight hearing entitled, ``Increasing Investment in Our 
Nation's Small Businesses.'' The purpose of the hearing was to 
examine the challenges that small business face in seeking 
capital investment in the private markets. The Committee 
received testimony from the Associate Administrator for Capital 
Access at the Small Business Administration. The Committee also 
received testimony from a Harvard scholar of investment banking 
and small business capital formation, the Angel Capital 
Association, and the National Association of Small Business 
Investment Companies.

 OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION'S DISASTER ASSISTANCE 
                                PROGRAM

    On February 14, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``The Small Business Administration's Response to the 2005 Gulf 
Coast Hurricanes.'' That hearing explored deficiencies in the 
Small Business Administration's response to the 2005 Gulf Coast 
Hurricanes and the concurrent Government Accountability Office 
report that examined the root causes of those problems. The 
Committee received testimony from the Administrator of the 
Small Business Administration, the Honorable Steven C. Preston. 
The Committee also received testimony from the Honorable 
Charlie Melancon (LA-3) the Honorable Richard Baker (LA-6) who 
testified on the ongoing deficiencies in the SBA's response to 
small businesses and homeowners affected by the 2005 Gulf Coast 
Hurricanes. The Committee also received testimony from William 
Shear, the Director of Financial Markets and Community 
Investment at the Government Accountability Office, who 
presented the results of a concurrently released GAO report 
entitled ``Response to the Gulf Coast Hurricanes Highlights 
Need for Enhanced Disaster Preparedness,'' which recommended 
that SBA take several steps to improve its disaster 
preparedness. The Committee also received testimony from the 
Secretary of Economic Development for the state of Louisiana, 
the Director for the Governor's Office of Recovery and Renewal 
for the state of Mississippi, the American Bankers Association 
and two small business owners who encountered numerous problems 
in seeking SBA assistance following the 2005 Gulf Coast 
Hurricanes.

 OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION'S CONTRACTING PROGRAMS

    On September 19, 2007 the Committee on Small Business held 
a hearing on the effectiveness of the SBA's Contracting 
Programs and the challenges they face. The SBA indicated they 
supported the programs but acknowledged some difficulty in 
ensuring that the programs were delivered to appropriate 
parties, a problem that had been reported from a number of 
sources including the General Accountability Office and the 
SBA's Inspector General. The SBA was unable to specify a date 
when the Women's Procurement Program would finally be 
implemented nearly seven years after enactment. The non-
government witnesses advocated for modernizing the 8(a) 
program, particularly the net worth limitation; urged the 
committee to take action to increase the participation in 
contract assistance programs by service-disabled, veteran owned 
firms; addressed the administration's failure thus far to 
implement the Women's Procurement program; pointed out the 
importance of specific procurement programs, and raised concern 
that government contracting is becoming burdensome and 
unwieldy.
                              ----------                              

    On January 16, 2008 the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing to examine the SBA's implementation of the Women's 
Procurement Program. The SBA had issued a proposed regulation 
to administer the program and the Committee heard testimony on 
its adequacy and appropriateness given Congressional intent in 
creating the program. The first panel was comprised of the 
Administrator of the SBA and an official from the Department of 
Justice. The second panel was comprised of women-owned small 
businesses, a legal scholar, and a law practitioner.

                           IMMIGRATION POLICY

    The full committee held a hearing on Thursday, May 10, 2007 
at 10:00 a.m., entitled: ``Immigration Policies and there 
Impact on Small Business''. This hearing consisted of two main 
panels: Panel 1--The Honorable Luis V. Gutierrez, Member of 
Congress. Panel 2--Mr. Benjamin E. Johnson, Director, American 
Immigration Law Foundation; Mr. Craig Silvertooth, Director of 
Federal Affairs, National Roofing Contractors Association; Ms. 
Maureen Torrey, Torrey Farms, Inc.; Mr. Ralph J. Folz, CEO, 
Molecular; Mr. Robert Rector, Ph.D., Senior Research Fellow, 
Heritage Foundation; and Mr. Mark S. Krikorian, Executive 
Director, Center for Immigration Studies. The committee heard 
testimony from industry experts on their immigration concerns 
and address issues including labor shortages, verification 
requirements, and the current visa system. Representatives from 
the agriculture, technology, and construction industries 
discussed the challenges facing their industries related to 
immigration.

                FAMILY FARMS AND RURAL SMALL BUSINESSES

    On Thursday, June 7, 2007, at 10:00 a.m., the full 
committee hearing entitled: ``Family Farmer and Rural Small 
Business Priorities for 2007 Farm Bill''. Key agriculture 
groups testifying include: The Honorable Glenn English, CEO, 
National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA); Tom 
Buis, President, National Farmers Union (NFU); Mike Noonan, 
President, Oregon Wheat Growers League, on behalf of National 
Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG); and Mark Schwiebert, 
Chairman, Public Policy Action Team, National Corn Growers 
Association (NCGA). The committee examined policies that assist 
small farmers and businesses with successfully competing in the 
domestic and global agricultural markets. Shaping agriculture 
policy determines the productivity of farmers, dictates the 
future of small businesses, and influence the outcome of the 
rural economy.
                              ----------                              

    On Thursday, May 1, 2008, at 10:00 a.m., the full committee 
held a hearing entitled: ``Rail Transportation Access for Small 
Businesses and Family Farmers''. The Committee heard from 
experts from the renewable fuels industry including Ms. Nelle 
P. Hotchkiss, SVP of Corporate Relations, North Carolina 
Electric Membership Corporation/National Rural Electric 
Cooperative Association; Mr. David Cleavinger, President, 
National Association of Wheat Growers; Dr. Kendell Keith, 
President, National Grain and Feed Association; and Mr. Dan 
Weber, Chairman, Agriculture Retailers Association. Small 
businesses and farmers in rural America depend on reliable 
transportation systems to move their goods and products to and 
from the marketplace. Of particular importance is their 
dependence upon rail transportation. Family farmers and small 
businesses have recently raised issues of affordability and 
access to rail shipping as a viable mode of transportation. The 
Committee learned about the importance rail transportation, and 
how the issues will impact family farmers, and small businesses 
alike. Groups have complained about the lack of reliable rail 
service coupled with high rates they pay in many regions of the 
country. The Committee was able to listen to testimony from 
small businesses, farmers who ship grain, renewable fuels 
producers, in addition to rail related groups. On the advent of 
unprecedented crop production, and renewable production, rail 
is becoming an even more important transportation resource.

                       GREEN BUILDING DEVELOPMENT

    On Wednesday, July 11, 2007, at 10:00 a.m., the Committee 
held a two panel hearing entitled: ``Small Businesses at the 
Forefront of the Green Revolution: What More Needs to Be Done 
to Keep Them Here?'' The panelists included: Panel 1--The 
Honorable Marty Blum, Mayor, Santa Barbara, CA; and The 
Honorable Adrian Fenty, Mayor, Washington, DC. Panel 2--Julius 
Genachowski, Co-founder, New Resource Bank; Bob Jones, 
President, Robert R. Jones Homes, National Association of Home 
Builders (NAHB); Susan Maxman, Owner, Susan Maxman & Partners, 
Architects, American Institute of Architects (AIA); Mary Beth 
McGrew, Director, University Architect Campus Building Division 
University of Cincinnati; and Danny Seo, Environmental 
Lifestyle Expert, Author of Simply Green. The hearing examined 
how small firms are playing a vital role in developing 
materials, and building ``green'' facilities in an ever 
changing global setting. These facilities and initiatives are 
designed to improve energy efficiency and use environmentally 
friendly production processes during building construction. The 
panelists discussed how small ventures are more attuned to 
combating global climate change by leading the charge to become 
more energy efficient and environmentally sensitive.
                              ----------                              

    On Thursday, July 10, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. the Committee 
held a full committee hearing entitled: ``The Role of Green 
Technologies in Spurring Economic Growth.'' Small businesses 
play a vital role in producing green products and providing 
green services, moving our nation away from foreign sources of 
petroleum. As a result, of their work, today's small firms have 
become more attuned to combating global climate change. As 
small businesses become more energy efficient and develop new 
technologies that are environmental friendly, they also are 
changing our workforce, by providing new ``green collar'' jobs. 
As our world continues changing, it is the small businesses 
that are creative and innovative; resulting in new green jobs. 
It is the American small business that is creating new these 
new job opportunities that making positive contributions to our 
economy as we adjust to global change. The committee heard 
testimony from: Mr. Randy Rema, President, Reese Electric Inc., 
North Bend, OR, on Behalf of the National Electrical 
Contractors Association (NECA); Mr. Ellis Guiles, Director of 
Sales & Marketing, TAG Mechanical Systems, Inc., Syracuse, New 
York, on Behalf of the Air Conditioning Contractors of America 
(ACCA); Mr. Gregory Wetstone, Senior Director of Government and 
Public Affairs, American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) in 
Washington, DC; Mr. James Resor, Chief Financial Officer, 
groSolar in White River Junction, VT, on Behalf of the Solar 
Energy Industries Association (SEIA) ; Ms. Andrea Lucke, Vice 
President of Sales and Design, Robert Lucke Homes, Cincinnati, 
OH 45249, on Behalf of the National Association of Home 
Builders (NAHB); Mr. Kevin Tindall, Owner, Tindall & Ranson 
Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., Princeton, NJ, on 
Behalf of National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling-
Contractors (NAPHCC).

                             ENERGY POLICY

    On Thursday, May 3, 2007, at 10:00 a.m., the full committee 
held a hearing entitled: ``The Impact of Renewable Energy 
Production in Rural America''. The committee heard from experts 
from the renewable fuels industry such as: Mr. Bob Dineen, 
President and CEO, Renewable Fuels Association (RFA); Mr. Joe 
Jobe, Executive Director, National Biodiesel Board (NBB); Mr. 
John Urbanchuk, Economist, LECG; and Mr. Leon Graves, Member, 
National Council of Farmer Cooperatives. This hearing focused 
on the wide range of renewable fuels issues dealing with 
consumption and production. The hearing provided for a 
discussion about current biofuels programs and future plans for 
the industry. The committee listened to key representatives on 
the growth and expansion taking place in rural America. The 
committee also heard about growth opportunities for family 
farmers and small businesses through promising newer 
technologies for renewable fuels production.
                              ----------                              

    The Committee held a field hearing chaired by committee 
member Representative Shuler on August 31, 2007, in Johnson 
City, Tennessee. The hearing was entitled: ``The Cost and 
Availability of Energy and the Effect on Small Business''. The 
Committee discussed the importance of energy to small 
businesses as energy consumers, and talk about how increasing 
costs are cutting into profit margins. Panelists included 
distinguished guests such as: Dr. Kelly Tiller, Assistant 
Professor, Agricultural Policy Analysis Center, The University 
of Tennessee; Mr. Jim Keiffer, Senior Vice President of 
Marketing, Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA); Dr. Frances 
Lamberts, Community Activist; Mr. Larry Elkins, General 
Manager, Holston Electric Cooperative; Mr. Robert White, Chief 
Public Relations Officer, Johnson City Power Board; Mr. John 
Hutchinson, Vice President--Finance, Powell Construction; and 
Mr. Stanley Snowden, President, Seven Wheels Trucking, Inc.
                              ----------                              

    On October 17, 2007, the Committee convened a hearing 
entitled: ``Small Business Energy Bill Priorities''. The 
Committee examined policies that assist small businesses 
enabling them to successfully compete in the domestic and 
global marketplace. Shaping energy policy determines the 
productivity dictates the future of small businesses, and 
influences the outcome of the economy. Panelists included: Mr. 
Frank Thompson, Owner, Sweetwater Builders, on behalf of the 
National Association of Home Builders; Mr. Mitchell Cropp, 
President, Cropp-Metcalfe Air Conditioning-Heating-Security, on 
behalf of the Air Conditioning Contractors of America and The 
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association; Mr. Miguel A. 
Rodriguez, Principal, Rodriguez Architects, Inc., on behalf of 
the American Institute of Architects (AIA); and Mr. Lee Fuller, 
Vice President for Government Relations, Independent Petroleum 
Association of America.

                 AIR TRANSPORTATION AND SMALL BUSINESS

    On June 26, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Grounded: How the Air Transportation Crisis is Hurting 
Entrepreneurs and the Economy.'' The Committee heard testimony 
from the travel industry, air carriers and business travelers. 
Witnesses discussed how fare increases and flight delays are 
impacting travelers, airlines and small firms in the travel and 
tourism industry.

                     FOOD PRICES AND SMALL BUSINESS

    On Thursday May 15, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. the House Small 
Business Committee held a full committee hearing entitled: 
``Food Prices and Small Businesses.'' National economic 
concerns over inflation and food prices at the market are 
impacting small businesses and agriculture alike. Increasing 
food prices have led some countries to reduce exports and 
others to try to build up stocks. This had placed pressure 
points on the market by driving prices further upward. Food 
price increases have impacted all sectors of the economy but 
has done so in different ways. This hearing will be a forum to 
identify impacts while also providing an opportunity to discuss 
policy solutions.
                              ----------                              

    Those testifying at this hearing include Mr. Tom Buis, 
President, National Farmers Union; Mr. Geoff Tracy, with Chef 
Goeff's, on behalf of the National Restaurant Association; Mr. 
Bob Dinneen, President and CEO, Renewable Fuels Association; 
Mr. Daryl Thomas, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing on 
behalf of the Snack Food Association and the Grocery 
Manufacturers Association; and Mr. Frank D. Formica, on behalf 
of the American Bakers Association.

                        THE STATE OF THE ECONOMY

    On November 7, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled, 
``The State of the Small Business Economy.'' The Committee 
received testimony from Governor Frederick Mishkin of the 
Federal Reserve Board on the state of the small business 
economy as a leading indicator of economic conditions in the 
U.S. The report coincided with the release of the 2007 Report 
to Congress on the Availability of Credit to Small Businesses, 
a report that was mandated by the Economic Growth and 
Regulatory Paperwork Reduction Act of 1996.
                              ----------                              

    On April 24, 2008, the House Committee on Small Business 
held a hearing entitled ``The Role of Small Business in 
Stimulating the Economy.'' The hearing examined the current 
state of the U.S. economy and the role that small businesses 
will play in spurring new growth and recovery. In addition, the 
Committee will hear testimony regarding trends in 
entrepreneurship, as well as obstacles facing startups during 
this challenging economic climate. The hearing will consist of 
one panel, which will include representatives from a range of 
industry sectors.
                              ----------                              

    On October 28, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled, 
``Creating Opportunities for Small Businesses in an Economic 
Recovery.'' This hearing focused on the impact of the financial 
crisis and economic downturn on small firms, including barriers 
they are facing in securing capital and credit. The Committee 
received testimony from the U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce, 
the American Bankers Association, the Association of Equipment 
Manufacturers, and the manufacturing sectors regarding 
challenges related to the financial and economic crisis.
                              ----------                              

    On November 20, 2008, the Committee held a hearing 
entitled, ``Review of Recent Federal Efforts to Improve Credit 
Conditions for Small Businesses.'' The hearing examined the 
government's response to the financial markets crisis and the 
slowing economy. The Committee reviewed the establishment of 
the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) at the U.S. Department 
of Treasury and the creation of several lending facilities at 
the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve Board of Governors and 
the U.S. Department of Treasury testified at the hearing.

                           ACCESS TO CAPITAL

    The House Committee on Small Business held a field hearing 
to examine the effects of New Market Tax Credits, the SBIC and 
504 programs, and their role in revitalizing urban communities. 
The hearing took place on Wednesday, April 11, 2007 at 10:00 
a.m., at the Avondale Pride Center: 3520 Burnet Avenue, 
Cincinnati, OH, 45229. This hearing focused on the New Markets 
Tax Credit program and how it can be improved to meet the needs 
of local communities. The hearing examined the program's 
performance to date, a report on the program by the GAO, as 
well as testimony from private investors and community 
development enterprise (CDE). The panel of witnesses included 
program stakeholders testified on the program's structure, the 
benefits to the local community, and recommendations for its 
improvement.
                              ----------                              

    On April 3, 2008, the Committee held a hearing to explore 
the role that credit cards play in providing small businesses 
with access to capital. Specifically, the Committee explored 
trends surrounding recent growth in credit card lending to 
small businesses and examined the specific advantages and 
disadvantages that credit cards provide to entrepreneurs, 
particularly against the backdrop of prevailing economic 
conditions and the state of small business lending. The 
Committee received testimony from a small entrepreneur that had 
benefited significantly from credit card use, an individual 
testifying on behalf of the Independent Community Bankers of 
America, an individual testifying on behalf of the National 
Association of Federal Credit Unions, and two professional 
scholars who have performed significant research on the issue 
of small business credit card usage.

                   SARBANES-OXLEY AND SMALL COMPANIES

    On June 5, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business 
convened a hearing entitled ``Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404: Will 
the SEC and PCAOB's New Standards Lower Compliance Costs for 
Small Companies?'' The Committee heard testimony from The 
Honorable Christopher Cox, Chairman, United States Securities 
and Exchange Commission, Chairman Mark W. Olson, Chairman, 
Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, The Honorable James 
C. Greenwood, President and CEO, Biotechnology Industry 
Organization (BIO), Ms. Diane Casey-Landry, President and CEO, 
America's Community Bankers, Mr. Hal S. Scott, Professor, 
Harvard University, Mark G. Heesen, President, National Venture 
Capital Association, Mr. David Hirschmann, Senior Vice 
President, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and Mr. Richard G. 
Schmalzl, Partner, Graydon, Head and Ritchey LLC. The hearing 
examined the new regulations issued by the Security and 
Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Public Company Accounting 
Oversight Board (PCAOB) in light of the committee's ongoing 
concern that Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (SOX 
404) places an undue regulatory burden on small firms.
                              ----------                              

    On December 12, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business 
convened a hearing entitled ``Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404: New 
Evidence on the Costs for Small Businesses''. The Committee 
heard testimony from The Honorable Christopher Cox, Chairman 
United States Securities and Exchange Commission, Michael J. 
Ryan, Executive Director and Senior Vice President, Center for 
Capital Markets Competitiveness, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; 
Harvey Grossblatt, CEO and President, Universal Security 
Instruments, Bill Loving, CEO, Pendleton Community Bank, Thomas 
Brandt, CFO, TeleCommunication Systems and Shannon Greene, CFO, 
Tandy Leather Factory. The hearing examined recently released 
data on SOX 404 compliance costs being incurred by small 
companies and assesses the appropriateness of the SEC's 
compliance timeline for small businesses.

                  LIABILITY REFORM AND SMALL BUSINESS

    On May 17, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Liability Reform and Small Business.'' The Committee heard 
testimony from advocacy groups and trade associations on issues 
pertaining to small businesses and civil litigation, including 
related legislative proposals. Witnesses included the U.S. 
Chamber of Commerce, Institute for Legal Reform, National 
Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association, The 
Association for Manufacturing Technology, the National 
Federation of Independent Businesses.

 SMALL BUSINESS COMPETITION POLICY: ARE MARKETS OPEN FOR ENTREPRENEURS?

    On September 25, 2008, the Committee held a hearing 
entitled ``Small Business Competition Policy: Are Markets Open 
for Entrepreneurs?'' The Committee heard testimony from the 
Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission, William E. Kovacic. 
Organizations representing physicians, medical device 
manufacturers and independent automobile repair stations 
delivered testimony. Witnesses discussed current competition 
issues facing entrepreneurs and whether federal antitrust 
regulators are doing enough to maintain competition in the 
marketplace.

                      MEDICAID DRUG REIMBURSEMENT

    On July 18, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Medicaid Drug Reimbursements: Are Cuts Bad Medicine for Small 
Businesses and Beneficiaries?'' The Committee met to discuss 
the final rule promulgated by the Centers for Medicare and 
Medicaid Services which sets the average manufacturer price as 
the basis for certain prescription drug reimbursements to 
pharmacies (71 Fed. Reg. 77174). The hearing examined the 
impacts of the rule on small business retail pharmacies and 
Medicaid beneficiaries and whether the new reimbursement 
formula accurately reflected drug acquisition costs. The 
Director of the Center for Medicaid and State Operations, 
Dennis Smith, delivered testimony. Representatives from 
independent community pharmacies, chain drug stores and 
supermarkets testified as to how the rule impacts their 
businesses and affects their ability to continue participating 
in Medicaid. The Committee examined whether the agency 
adequately complied with the requirements of the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act in promulgating the rule.

                           REGULATORY BURDEN

    On November 15, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
Reducing the Regulatory Burden on Small Business: Improving the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act. The Committee heard testimony from 
small business representatives of the transportation, health 
care and other industries as well as from an administrative law 
expert. Witnesses discussed the federal regulatory burden on 
small businesses and how Congress can act to reduce it. 
Witnesses delivered testimony regarding the regulatory burdens 
imposed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the 
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Department 
of Homeland Security and the Federal Aviation Administration. 
The Committee examined ways to improve the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act.
                              ----------                              

    On February 28, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Improving the Paperwork Reduction Act for Small Businesses.'' 
The Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory 
Affairs of the Office of Management and Budget, Susan E. 
Dudley, delivered testimony. Representatives of small firms 
testified as well as an administrative law expert. Witnesses 
discussed the federal paperwork burden on small firms. The 
hearing examined the growing federal paperwork burdens on small 
businesses and how Congress can act to reduce it by improving 
the Paperwork Reduction Act.

                   PUBLIC LANDS AND SMALL BUSINESSES

    On April 17, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Maintaining Public Lands for Hunting, Fishing, Ranching and 
Small Businesses.'' The Assistant Secretary for Land and 
Minerals Management at the Department of the Interior, C. 
Stephen Allred, delivered testimony. The Committee heard 
testimony from hunting and fishing guides, a cattle rancher and 
a business providing services to energy firms. Witnesses 
discussed how the Interior Department is meeting the needs of 
small businesses dependent on the use of public lands for 
hunting, fishing, grazing and outdoor recreation.

                        RESPA AND SMALL BUSINESS

    On May 22, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``RESPA and its Impact on Small Business.'' The Director of the 
Office of RESPA and Interstate Land Sales at the Department of 
Housing and Urban Development, Ivy Jackson, delivered 
testimony. Representatives of the real estate industry 
testified as well as a consumer advocate. Witnesses discussed 
the burdens associated with the proposed rule issued by HUD 
pursuant to the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act. The 
Committee examined how the new paperwork required by the rule 
would impact consumers and the real estate industry.

                       TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

    On March 7, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business 
convened a hearing entitled ``Advancing the Innovation Agenda: 
The Perspective of the Technology and Telecommunications 
Industry.'' The Committee heard testimony from Mr. William J. 
Archey, President and CEO, AeA, Mr. Philip J. Bond, President 
and CEO, Information Technology Association of America (ITAA), 
Mr. Grant Seiffert, President, Telecommunications Industry 
Association (TIA), Mr. David Zesiger, Senior Vice President, 
Regulatory Policy and External Affairs, Embarq, Mr. Walter B. 
McCormick, Jr., President and CEO, United States 
Telecommunications Association (USTelecom), Ms. Shirley 
Bloomfield, Vice President, Government Affairs and Association 
Services for the National Telecommunications Cooperative 
Association (NTCA), Mr. Richard Cimerman, Vice President, State 
Telecommunications Policy, National Cable and 
Telecommunications Association (NCTA), and Mr. Earl Comstock, 
President and CEO, COMPTEL. The hearing examined the technology 
and telecommunication industries' policy priorities for the 
110th Congress and considered how the industries' policy 
priorities might impact small innovative companies.
                              ----------                              

    On March 29, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business 
convened a hearing entitled ``The Impact of Proposed Patent 
Reform Legislation on Small Businesses.'' The Committee heard 
testimony from Commissioner John J. Doll, Commissioner for 
Patents, United States Patent and Trademark Office, Mr. 
Mitchell Gross, Chairman and CEO, Mobius Management Systems, 
Mr. Bryan Lord, Vice President and General Counsel, AmberWave 
Systems Corporation, Ms. Emily Ward, Associate General Counsel 
for Patents, eBay, Inc, Mr. John Neis, Managing Director of 
Venture Investors LLC, Mr. John R. Thomas, Professor, 
Georgetown University, and Mr. Kevin Kirsch, Partner, Taft, 
Stettinius & Hollister LLP. The hearing examined the cost and 
benefits of reforming the U.S. patent system and the potential 
impact on small businesses.
                              ----------                              

    On June 28, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business 
convened a hearing entitled the ``Assessing the Impact of the 
Copyright Royalty Board Decision to Increase Royalty Rates on 
Recording Artists and Webcasters.'' The Committee heard 
testimony from Mr. Bryan Miller, General Manager for WOXY.com, 
Mr. Tom Sullivan, Founder, Tommy Boy Records, Joey Allcorn, 
Recording Artist, Ms. Cathy Fink, Recording Artist, Mr. Kieran 
Kelly, Co-Owner, Stunning Models on Display Records, Mr. Thomas 
Lee, President, American Federation of Musicians, Mr. Richard 
Eiswerth, President, General Manager and CEO, Cincinnati Public 
Radio, Inc., and the Honorable Jay Inslee, Member of Congress. 
The hearing examined a recent decision by the Copyright Royalty 
Board (CRB) that increased substantially the royalty rates that 
Internet broadcasters or ``webcasters'' pay to compensate 
copyright owners for digital transmissions of their sound 
recordings.
                              ----------                              

    On October 10, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business 
convened a hearing entitled ``The Impact of the 700 Megahertz 
Wireless Spectrum Auction on Small Business.'' The Committee 
heard testimony from The Honorable Kevin J. Martin, Chairman, 
Federal Communications Commission, Mr. E. Kelly Bond, CEO and 
President, Public Service Communications, Ms. Shelley Spenser, 
President, Wirefree Partners, Mr. Chris Guttman-McCabe, Vice 
President, Regulatory Affairs, CTIA, Mr. Christopher 
Libertelli, Senior Director, Government and Regulatory Affairs, 
Skype, and Mr. Jeffery Black, Founder, Chairman and Chief 
Strategy Officer, TalkPlus. The hearing examined the potential 
impact of the upcoming wireless spectrum auction's rules on 
entrepreneurs, small wireless communications providers and 
small businesses that are without access to reliable and 
affordable access to broadband services.

             HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

    On March 14, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing entitled ``Challenges and Solutions to Health Insurance 
Coverage for Small Businesses.'' The hearing focused on 
barriers to coverage for small businesses ranging from their 
tax treatment under the Code to the structure of the health 
insurance market. Witnesses Karen Ignagni, President and CEO of 
America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), Todd Stottlemyer, 
President and CEO of the National Federation of Independent 
Business (NFIB), Adam D. Cockey, Jr., Senior Vice President of 
Prudential Carruthers Realtors and Immediate Past Chair of the 
National Association of Realtors (NAR) Business Issues 
Committee, and Gail Wilensky, a Leading Economist and former 
Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services 
(CMS), testified about the barriers faced by small firms and 
possible solutions to bring down costs and increase coverage.
                              ----------                              

    On May 24, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing entitled ``Expanding Small Business Health Insurance 
Coverage Using the Private Reinsurance Market.'' The hearing 
focused on how reinsurance has been used by businesses to 
manage their risk of financial loss. Witnesses testified on 
alternative reinsurance arrangements that have been used by 
employers to control high risk and catastrophic health care 
costs associated with medical benefit plans. Testimony was also 
provided describing the current landscape of the reinsurance 
market and barriers to the adoption of reinsurance by small 
business in the health care arena. Witnesses included Len 
Crouse, Vermont Deputy Commissioner, Captive Division, Patrick 
L. Collins, Chairperson of the American Academy of Actuaries' 
Medical Reinsurance Work Group, as well as Vice Chairperson of 
the Academy's Federal Health Committee (AAA), Janet Trautwein, 
Executive Vice President & CEO, National Association of Health 
Underwriters (NAHU), and Leonard C. Brevik, Executive Vice 
President and CEO of the National Association of Professional 
Insurance Agents (PIA).
                              ----------                              

    On October 25, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Health Insurer Consolidation--The Impact on Small Business.'' 
The hearing examined the effects of consolidation on the cost 
of health insurance and the impact on physicians and other 
health care providers in terms of reimbursements and 
administrative burdens. Representatives of small businesses, 
physicians and consumers testified as to the impacts of 
increased consolidation of health insurers on competition in 
health care.
                              ----------                              

    On January 23, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing entitled ``Limited Options for Small Businesses in the 
Small Group Market.'' The hearing examined the challenges small 
businesses face providing health insurance coverage to their 
workers. Witnesses discussed their experiences purchasing 
health insurance in the small group market citing challenges 
specific to their industry, region of the country, and business 
size. Witnesses also offered their opinions about possible 
solutions to the problems small businesses face in the 
marketplace. Testimony was provided by Don Teske on behalf of 
the National Farmers Union, Scott Eckstein on behalf of the 
National Association of Home Builders, Cathey Sandman on behalf 
of the National Federation of Independent Business, Richard S. 
Lee on behalf of the Society of American Florists, Lee David 
Groza on behalf American Institute of Certified Public 
Accountants, and R. Stephen Eby, M.D., on behalf of the 
American Academy of Family Physicians.
                              ----------                              

    On February 26, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held 
a hearing entitled ``State Strategies to Expand Health 
Insurance Coverage for Small Businesses''--Featuring Testimony 
on Health Care Reform in Minnesota and Pennsylvania from 
Governors Pawlenty and Rendell. The hearing examined the 
question of State health reform and how it may impact the small 
business community. The principle focus of the hearing was to 
assess whether State reform efforts will prove successful, and 
how the Federal government can best assist States in their 
efforts to promote coverage.
                              ----------                              

    On September 18, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held 
a hearing entitled: ``Making Health Care Reform Work for Small 
Business.'' Testimony was heard from a wide range of witnesses.

             COMPETITIVE BIDDING FOR CLINICAL LAB SERVICES

    On July 25, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing entitled ``Competitive Bidding for Clinical Lab 
Services: Where's It Heading and What Small Businesses Can 
Expect?'' The hearing examined a competitive bidding 
demonstration program developed by the Centers for Medicare and 
Medicaid Services to reimburse clinical lab providers for 
Medicare services. Testimony focused on how the program would 
impact small labs and their ability to operate and continue 
offering services. Witnesses included Timothy P. Love, Director 
for the Office of Research, Development and Information, 
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; Dr. Ronald Weiss, 
M.D., President and C.O.O., ARUP Laboratories, and American 
Clinical Laboratory Association Board Chairman; Tod Schild, 
Senior Vice President, Shiel Medical Laboratories; Thomas S. 
Bejgrowicz, M.S., L.N.H.A., Client Account Manager, Aculabs; 
and Mary Jo Bonifas, Manager of Laboratory Services and United 
Clinical Laboratories.

             MEDICARE PHYSICIAN FEE CUTS AND SMALL BUSINESS

    On Thursday, May 8, 2008, the Committee held a hearing 
entitled ``Medicare Physician Fee Cuts: Can Small Practices 
Survive.'' The hearing examined the business challenges faced 
by small medical practices and the impact Medicare physician 
fee cuts would have on the operation of health care practices. 
Testimony was provided by Herb Kuhn, Deputy Administrator, 
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; Dr. David C. Dale, 
MD, FACP on behalf of the American College of Physicians (ACP); 
Dr. Cecil Wilson, MD on behalf of the American Medical 
Association (AMA); Mona Reimers on behalf of the Medical Group 
Management Association; Tom DiAngelis, PT, on behalf of the 
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA); and Dr. Charles 
Mabry, MD, FACS on behalf of the American College of Surgeons.

         ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORDS IN SMALL SPECIALTY PRACTICES

    On Thursday, July 31, 2008, the Committee on Small Business 
held a hearing entitled: ``Cost and Confidentiality: The 
Unforeseen Challenges of Electronic Health Records in Small 
Specialty Practices.'' In spite of findings about the many 
benefits of HIT, its dissemination has been slow, due in part 
to the high costs of Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems 
for smaller health care practices. Small health care practices 
have been reluctant to install systems because of concerns over 
the upfront capital investment, ongoing maintenance and short-
term productivity loss. Costs concerns have led to public and 
private efforts that aim to increase the pace of HIT adoption. 
But cost alone is not the only concern before members of the 
medical profession. The adoption of EHR is particularly 
troublesome for specialty practices. One issue that is unique 
to certain specialty practices is patient confidentiality. 
Despite best efforts, how and in what manner the records of 
children, abused women, and those suffering from mental illness 
will be protected remains a concern. Certain small health care 
practices protect extremely intimate patient information, so 
there is increased concern about confidentially, which can also 
increase exposure to liability over improper disclosure. The 
hearing focused on the broad discussion about cost and privacy 
and how both have influenced the adoption of EHR by solo and 
small group specialty practices. Testimony was provided by 
Philip W. Tally, MD, on behalf of the American Association of 
Neurological Surgeons; Robert Plovnick, MD, MS, on behalf of 
the American Psychiatric Association; Edward Gotlieb, MD, FAAP, 
on behalf of the American Academy of Pediatrics; Ralph Hale, 
MD, FACOG, on behalf of American College of Obstetricians and 
Gynecologists; and Thaddeus Bort, MD, on behalf of the American 
Academy of Family Physicians.

                          KATRINA CONTRACTING

    On April 12, 2007, the Committee held a field hearing in 
New Orleans, Louisiana, entitled ``Participation of Small 
Businesses in Hurricane Katrina Recovery.'' The hearing largely 
emphasized the shortcomings of the major agencies involved in 
awarding Gulf Coast recovery contracts with regard to their 
local and small business usage. The Committee heard testimony 
from the Honorable Lurita Doan, Administrator, General Services 
Administration; Mr. Paul Schneider, Under Secretary for 
Management, Department of Homeland Security; Dr. James Finley, 
Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, 
and Logistics, Department of Defense; Lt. Gen. Carl Strock, 
Chief of Engineers, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Admiral 
Patrick Dunne, Assistant Secretary for Policy, Planning, and 
Preparedness, Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Steven 
Preston, Administrator, Small Business Administration.
                              ----------                              

    On August 2, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Disaster Planning and Recovery: Are We Ready for Another 
Katrina?'' This hearing was intended as a follow-up to two 
hearings--the February disaster loan hearing, and the April 
field hearing on Katrina contracting. The Committee requested 
and reviewed data from the agencies that previously testified, 
to monitor their progress. It found that progress had not been 
made with regard to local and small business contracting. The 
Committee will continue to monitor this situation. The 
Committee heard testimony from Ms. Lurita Doan, Administrator, 
General Services Administration; Mr. Paul Schneider, Under 
Secretary for Management, Department of Homeland Security; Dr. 
James Finley, Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for 
Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, Department of Defense; 
Lt. Gen. Robert Van Antwerp, Chief of Engineers, U.S. Army 
Corps of Engineers; Mr. Robert Henke, Assistant Secretary for 
Management, Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Steven 
Preston, Administrator, Small Business Administration.

                      EMERGING PROCUREMENT METHODS

    On March 6, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Are New Procurement Methods Beneficial to Small Business 
Contractors?'' As a result of the decreasing acquisition 
workforce, agencies are turning to more automated methods of 
awarding government contracts such as schedule contracting and 
reverse auctions. The Committee examined the effect of these 
methods on small business contractors and determined that these 
methods are not clearly producing greater value or increased 
efficiency. The Committee heard testimony from Mr. Paul 
Dennett, Administrator, Office of Federal Procurement Policy; 
Mr. Jim Williams, Commissioner, Federal Acquisition Service, 
General Services Administration; Major General Ron Johnson, 
Deputy Commanding General, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Mr. 
John Palatiello, Administrator, Council on Federal Procurement 
of Architectural and Engineering Services; Mr. Anthony Zelenka, 
President, Bertucci Contracting Corporation; Mr. Mark Leazer, 
Forms & Supply, Inc.; Mr. Arthur Salus, President, Duluth 
Travel; and Mr. John Spotila, CEO, R3i Solutions.

GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICE (GAO) INVESTIGATION AND REPORT ON THE 
            SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION'S HUBZONE PROGRAM

    On July 17, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Small Business Administration's Contracting Programs and 
Recent GAO Examination of Programs'' to consider the GAO's 
findings regarding the potential for fraud in the HUBZone 
program. Both GAO's Financial Markets and Community Investment 
division as well as the Forensic Audits and Special 
Investigations group examined the program and concluded that 
SBA does not have sufficient controls for fraud prevention and 
detection. SBA pledged to improve the program in several ways. 
The Committee will monitor the agency's progress in making 
improvements. Acting Administrator Ms. Jovita Carranza 
testified on behalf of SBA. GAO was represented by Mr. William 
Shear, Director, Financial Markets and Community Investment; 
and Mr. Gregory Kutz, Managing Director, Forensic Audits and 
Special Investigations.

                              TRADE POLICY

    On November 1, 2007, the House Small Business Committee 
held a hearing entitled ``Evaluating the Impact of Pending Free 
Trade Agreements upon U.S. Small Businesses.'' The hearing 
focused on the potential impacts of the treaties with countries 
in Latin America and Asia upon small U.S. businesses, including 
changes in domestic and market opportunities. The hearing also 
considered Federal resources, such as export promotion 
programs, which support small producers' competitiveness in the 
global economy and ensure their access to newly opened markets. 
Testimony was provided by the Deputy U.S. Trade Representative 
regarding the Office of the USTR's efforts to incorporate small 
business concerns into the negotiation and implementation of 
trade agreements. Business representatives of the service, 
manufacturing, agricultural and technology sectors testified as 
to the potential impacts of the agreements to small firms in 
these industries.
                              ----------                              

    On June 13, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing entitled: ``U.S. Trade Policy and Small Business.'' The 
hearing focused on the impact of Federal trade policies and 
resources that effect small firms' competitiveness in the 
globalized economy. Testimony was provided by administrators 
from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, the 
Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration, 
and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural 
Service Division regarding their efforts to promote 
international transactions by small businesses. Witnesses 
representing manufacturing, service and agricultural sectors 
highlighted foreign and domestic market access issues facing 
small firms as a result of trade liberalization.
                              ----------                              

    On June 19, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing entitled ``Small Business Exports in the Current 
Economic Climate.'' The purpose of the hearing was to examine 
trends in small businesses export activities during the 
country's economic downturn. As overseas sales are particularly 
critical during an economic slowdown to offset reduced domestic 
consumption, the hearing examined problems small businesses are 
facing as they attempt to access foreign markets and contribute 
to the nation's growth. The Committee received testimony from 
the small business owners in the manufacturing and resource-
based industries. They highlighted the export regulations and 
shifting transportation patterns creating obstacles to foreign 
customers. A representative of the textile industry testified 
regarding trade and fiscal policies that create disadvantages 
for small U.S. exporters. A trade policy analyst and academic 
highlighted public policies that promote the competitiveness of 
small businesses in global markets, particularly during an 
economic downturn.

          SMALL BUSINESS POLICY AT THE U.S. EXPORT-IMPORT BANK

    On January 17, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing entitled ``Oversight of the U.S. Export-Import Bank's 
Implementation of its Small Business Mandate.'' The purpose of 
the hearing was to examine the U.S. Export-Import Bank 
(Eximbank), which was created Congress in 1934 to help 
stimulate foreign trade and increase employment. Specifically, 
the hearing considered the status of Eximbank's implementation 
of recent legislative initiatives to strengthen its small 
business programs. The Committee received testimony from the 
Chairman and President of the U.S. Export-Import Bank, James 
Lambright. His testimony highlighted the steps the Bank has 
taken to administer the small business provisions mandated in 
the agency's recent reauthorization as well as overall lending 
activities to the sector at Eximbank. Representatives of small 
businesses in export-based industries testified on financing 
needs and presented recommendations for improved export 
assistance through the institution.

                               TAX POLICY

    On March 22, 2007, the Committee held a hearing on the 3 
percent government withholding requirement. In an effort to 
close the tax gap, Sec. 511 of the 2005 TIPRA requires the 
government to withhold 3 percent on nearly all of its payments 
for goods or services. However, for many small businesses that 
operate on small profit margins and need cash to conduct their 
operations, the 3 percent withholding requirement would 
literally put many small businesses that operate exclusively on 
government contracts out of business. Witnesses included 
Vincent Iannelli of Iannelli Construction on behalf of the 
Associated General Contractors, Daryl Deel of NEI Transport 
Inc. on behalf of the American Trucking Associations and Lamar 
Whitman, Public Policy Manager for the Computing Technology 
Industry Association. The witnesses testified how harmful this 
provision would be for their business in that the withheld 
money could mean difference between meeting payroll, expanding 
a company or buying needed equipment while reducing their 
ability to compete against their corporate counterparts. All 
interested parties were of the mindset that the 3 percent 
withholding requirements needs to be repealed in full.
                              ----------                              

    On April 26, 2007, the Committee held a hearing on the tax 
gap. The tax gap is the difference between the amount of taxes 
paid voluntarily and timely for a given year and the amount of 
taxes due. The IRS pointed to small businesses and self-
employed individuals as being major contributors to the tax gap 
and the hearing addressed ways in which efforts to close the 
tax gap would impact small businesses. Witnesses included the 
Honorable Mark W. Everson, Commissioner of Internal Revenue, 
Keith Hall, National Tax Advisor for the National Association 
for the Self-Employed, Paul Hense, CPA on behalf of the 
National Small Business Association, James E. Brennan, CPA 
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Donald C. 
Alexander, Former IRS Commissioner Partner, and Mr. Joe Samuel 
Senior Vice President, Public Policy First Data Corporation. 
The witnesses testified how some of the proposals by the IRS 
would unduly harm small businesses and that much of the tax gap 
could be closed by simplifying the tax code and making it 
compliance easier.
                              ----------                              

    On October 3, 2007, the Committee held a hearing on the 
Internet Tax Moratorium, which currently bans taxes on internet 
access, and prevented taxes on Internet transactions and was 
set to expire on November 1, 2007. The hearing focused on the 
effect that policy has had on the ability of small businesses 
to successfully compete in the new digital economy. Witnesses 
included Brian Bieron the Senior Director, Federal Government 
Relations for eBay Inc., Brett Dewey, CEO of 
WickedCoolStuff.com, David P. McClure President & CEO of the 
U.S. Internet Industry Association, Ross J. Lieberman Vice 
President of Government Affairs for the American Cable 
Association and Raymond Keating Chief Economist for the Small 
Business Economic Council. The witness testimony focused on how 
a tax free Internet has proved to be the great leveling field 
in American business today, permitting small businesses with 
less access to capital to compete with much larger businesses. 
As such, all witnesses were in agreement that a permanent 
extension of the moratorium was needed so as to continue to 
foster small business development in the digital economy.
                              ----------                              

    On February 14, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on 
Business Activity Taxes (BATs) and their impact on small 
businesses. BATs are taxes imposed by states on out of state 
businesses in the form of income taxes, royalty fees, or 
licensing fees for conducting business within a particular 
state's borders. The hearing highlighted the many problems 
small businesses face when attempting to conduct interstate 
sales. Witnesses from the technology, manufacturing, and 
restaurant industries explained that because states have 
imposed these taxes, they have faced increased tax liabilities, 
increased litigation costs, and increased administrative costs 
due to the complex tax provisions of the various states. The 
witnesses stressed to the Committee that federal legislation is 
required to set a bright-line standard so that small businesses 
know that when they conduct business in a particular state, 
they could potentially be subject to its taxing regime. As a 
follow up to the hearing, the Committee sent a comment letter 
to the Judiciary Committee which detailed the substance of the 
hearing. The letter, signed by Chairwoman Velazquez and Ranking 
member Chabot, indicated the concerns regarding BATs from the 
small business perspective while also stating that the 
Committee is willing to work with Judiciary on a matter of 
great importance to the small business community.
                              ----------                              

    On April 10, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on how 
certain updates could be made to the Internal Revenue Code that 
could help small businesses stimulate the economy. Although 
there is a real need for reform to make our economy more 
competitive in an increasingly globally competitive world, the 
Committee believes that there is an immediate need for a more 
limited modernization of some of the most antiquated provisions 
of our current business tax system that better reflect the 
economy that we are operating in today. As such, the Committee 
held this hearing and heard testimony from small businesses 
operating in the technology, manufacturing, and food and 
service industries. The witnesses explained to the Committee 
that in many respects, the tax code has not adequately 
responded to the economy that exists in the 21st century, and 
this hinders their ability to grow and expand their business. 
Along with the hearing, the Committee released a report, which 
detailed 7 ways the Internal Revenue Code should be immediately 
updated. Finally, the Committee introduced legislation, H.R. 
6601, which will attempt to incorporate those recommendations 
into law.
                              ----------                              

    On June 5, 2008 the Committee held a hearing focused on the 
housing crisis and the ripple effect it has had on small 
businesses and our nation's economy. By some estimates, the 
housing industry comprises nearly 10 percent of our nation's 
Gross Domestic Product making it a critical component of our 
nation's economic well being. However, increased foreclosures, 
declining home values, and slumping sales of new homes have 
affected consumer confidence and spending as many Americans and 
small businesses have witnessed their most significant asset 
rapidly depreciate. Further, small businesses such as home 
builders, contractors, engineers, architects, and those in the 
financial service industry permeate the housing industry and 
rely on it for survival. The hearing gave members of the 
Committee the opportunity to analyze potential tax relief, 
including a first-time home buyer's credit, and other tax 
preferences which could provide relief to the industry. The 
Committee heard from those small businesses directly affected 
by the housing downturn, such as the National Association of 
Home Builders, the National Association of Realtors, and the 
Independent Community Bankers, who testified that a housing 
stimulus package must be passed to aid this struggling 
industry.
                              ----------                              

    On June 12, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Electronic Payments Tax Reporting--Another Tax Burden for 
Small Businesses.'' The hearing examined recent efforts to 
require information tax reporting on all credit card receipts 
of small businesses. Specifically, this hearing focused on the 
potential administrative and financial burdens that new 
reporting requirements could create for small businesses and 
financial institutions. The Committee received testimony from a 
leading electronic payment processing company, a Midwest-based 
financial institution, the National Small Business Association, 
and the National Association of the Self-Employed.
                              ----------                              

    On July 24, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on the 
stimulus package enacted in February of 2008 and its impact on 
small businesses and the economy in general. The hearing also 
examined the current state of the economy, and whether another 
round of stimulus is needed, what form that should take, and 
small business' role in getting our nation back on track. The 
Committee heard testimony from a wide spectrum of industries, 
including the American Banking Association, the National Retail 
Federation, and the American Council of Engineering Companies. 
Each group spoke about specific policies, such as banking 
reform, rebate checks, and infrastructure spending, and how 
those proposals could benefit both small businesses and our 
national economy. The Committee also heard testimony from Mark 
Zandi, an economist, and founder of MoodysEconomy.com. Mr. 
Zandi emphasized the need for another round of stimulus 
targeted in the $50-100 billion range as a way to boost the 
sagging economy due to waning affects of the last stimulus 
package.
                              ----------                              

    On September 11, 2008, the Committee held a hearing to 
examine expiring tax incentives and the needs of small 
businesses. The Committee heard testimony from the National 
Biodiesel Board, The National Restaurant Association, the 
International Council of Shopping Centers, and the 
Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International.

           SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATION RESEARCH (SBIR) PROGRAM

    On January 29, 2008, the House Committee on Small Business 
convened a hearing entitled ``SBIR: America's Technology 
Development Incubator''. The Committee heard testimony from 
Douglas Doerfler, President & CEO, MaxCyte, Inc, Michael 
Borrus, General Partner, X/Seed Capital, Lawrence Farrell, 
President & CEO, National Defense Industrial Association, 
Robert J. Beall, President and CEO, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation 
and William Bean, Director, Technology and Business Center, 
College of William and Mary. The hearing examined the 
importance of the SBIR program to American competitiveness as 
well as changes to it that may strengthen the initiative.
                              ----------                              

    On March 13, 2008 the House Small Business Committee 
convened a legislative hearing to review a Committee Print of 
draft legislation reauthorizing and modernizing the Small 
Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The Committee 
heard testimony from the Honorable Steven Preston, 
Administrator, United States Small Business Administration, the 
Honorable James C. Greenwood, President and CEO, Biotechnology 
Industry Organization (BIO), Mark G. Heesen, President, 
National Venture Capital Association, Mark Leahey, Executive 
Director, Medical Device Manufactures Association, Mark 
Skinner, Vice President, State Science and Technology Institute 
and Charles Matthews Professor of Management, University of 
Cincinnati.

             IMPACT OF GEORGIA DROUGHT ON SMALL BUSINESSES

    On March 25, 2008 at 10:00 a.m., the Small Business 
Committee held a field hearing in LaGrange, GA examining the 
impact of local droughts on small businesses. The Committee 
heard testimony from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other 
affected parties on the impact of recent droughts on Georgia. 
The hearing examined the challenges the drought presented for 
individuals and businesses in the landscaping, tourism and 
other industries.

                 SMALL BUSINESS ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS

    On December 8, 2008, the Small Business Committee held a 
field hearing in Asheville, NC. The hearing examined the effect 
of industrial contamination on small businesses and their 
surrounding communities, as well as potential solutions. The 
Committee heard from small business owners and stakeholders on 
their concerns about the issue.

                         WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP

    On July 23, 2007, the Small Business Committee held a field 
hearing in Philadelphia, PA. This hearing examined the 
contributions of women entrepreneurs to Pennsylvania's economy 
and the challenges that they face. The panel was comprised of 
small business owners, lenders, and entrepreneurial assistance 
groups, as well as an SBA representative. The witnesses 
discussed their successes and the obstacles they have overcome 
to get their businesses off the ground. The women entrepreneurs 
on the panel further discussed the policies that have assisted 
them or that could help them expand in the future. The other 
representatives on the panel discussed the financial and 
technical assistance programs that are available to the women 
entrepreneur community.
                    Subcommittee on Finance and Tax

                          Oversight Activities

                    DATA SECURITY AND SMALL BUSINESS

    On June 6, 2007, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held a 
hearing entitled ``Data Security: Small Business 
Perspectives.'' The subcommittee discussed how the issue of 
data security is impacting small businesses. In addition, the 
subcommittee examined the efforts of small businesses to secure 
data from increasingly sophisticated threats. The hearing 
assessed proposals for a federal data security law and how they 
can be crafted to account for the unique needs of small 
businesses. Witnesses from the retail, credit card and 
information technology industries testified.

           PENSION PARITY BETWEEN SMALL AND LARGE BUSINESSES

    On October 24, 2007, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax 
held a hearing regarding the barriers small businesses face in 
offering pension benefits to their employees as compared to 
larger entities. The witnesses included Catherine Collinson, of 
Transamerica Retirement Services, Jim McCarthy, Managing 
Director of Morgan Stanley, Sal Tripodi, a retirement benefits 
specialist on behalf of the American Society of Pension 
Professionals and Actuaries and Paula Calimafde, the Chair of 
the Small Business Council of America. The hearing revealed 
that many small firms cannot afford to provide retirement 
benefits or lack the in-house expertise necessary to comply 
with complicated Employee Retirement Income Security Act 
(ERISA) guidelines. As a result, only 15 percent of micro 
businesses offer pensions to their employees. Witnesses 
discussed how changes in the tax code and modifications to 
existing retirement vehicles would encourage employees to save 
more for retirement while alleviating some of the burden on 
business owners.

  OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION'S ACCESS TO CAPITAL 
                                PROGRAMS

    On March 5, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held 
a hearing regarding the SBA's access to capital programs. This 
included testimony from the Eric Zarnikow, the Associate 
Administrator for Capital Access at SBA, the National 
Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders, the National 
Association of Development Companies, the National Association 
of Small Business Investment Companies, and the Association of 
Enterprise Opportunity. The Subcommittee heard about the 
challenges SBA program participants face in making capital more 
available for small firms.

                       THE SMALL BUSINESS ECONOMY

    On April 30, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held 
a hearing to examine the effect that prevailing economic 
conditions have had on small business access to capital. In 
particular, the Committee examined how small firms have been 
affected by a contraction in the national credit supply and 
explored how these conditions impacted national employment, 
gross domestic product, and trade. The subcommittee received 
testimony from the Independent Community Bankers of America, 
the Credit Union National Association, a small business owner 
testifying on behalf of the U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce, 
and a small business owner testifying on behalf of the Greater 
Sarasota Chamber of Commerce.

                             S-CORPORATIONS

    On June 18, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held 
a hearing to discuss the business classification known as the S 
corporation and what potential changes should be made to their 
operating rules. Over the past 50 years, S-corporations have 
become the favored entity classification for small businesses. 
However, many of the rules relating to the S-corporation regime 
date back nearly half a century. Additionally, in many ways, 
the tax code treats S corporations differently than other 
entity classifications, such as partnerships and C 
corporations, even though they may be similarly situated in 
terms of their business operations. Thus, the hearing gave 
Committee members the opportunity to examine which changes 
could be made to better help small businesses raise capital and 
improve impediments to growth. Members heard testimony from the 
banking industry along with those in the tax preparation 
community who explained the importance of S corporations to the 
family owned business and how the vitality of the S corporation 
contributes to small business growth, development, and 
expansion.
    On September 17, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax 
held a hearing on Disaster Savings Accounts and their 
protections for small businesses. Witnesses from the financial 
services, baking, and manufacturing sectors testified during 
the hearing.
               Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology

                          Oversight Activities

 FEDERAL GOVERNMENT EFFORTS IN CONTRACTING WITH WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES

    On March 21, 2007 the Subcommittee on Contracting and 
Technology held a hearing on the implementation of the Women's 
Procurement Program and federal government efforts in 
contracting with women-owned businesses. The first panel of 
agency representatives reviewed the status of their respective 
agencies' efforts to meet their goals with regard to 
contracting with women-owned businesses and individual 
successes within their programs. They went over their reports 
and data related to their accomplishments and their plans to 
support and include women-owned businesses in contract efforts 
in the future. SBA Deputy Administrator Carranza went through 
the current status of the implementation of the Women's 
Procurement Program. The report of under-represented industries 
has been completed and regulations are being prepared. The 
second panel comprised of the U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce 
as well as women entrepreneurs testified as to their challenges 
in accessing federal contracts.

                    RENEWABLE ENERGY WORKFORCE NEEDS

    On Wednesday, June 20, 2007, the Subcommittee on 
Contracting and Technology convened a hearing entitled: 
``Meeting the Workforce Demands of Small Bio-Energy 
Businesses''. The Subcommittee heard from two sets of 
panelists, which included: Panel 1--The Honorable Sen. Tom 
Harkin (D-IA), Chairman, Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and 
Forestry Committee. Panel 2--John Caupert, Director, National 
Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center; Ron Litterer, First Vice 
President, National Corn Growers Association (NCGA); Bruce 
Rastetter, CEO, Hawkeye Renewables; Dr. Patricia Keir, 
Chancellor, Eastern Iowa Community College District Office; Dr. 
Kelly J. Tiller, PhD, Assistant Professor, Agricultural Policy 
Analysis Center, The University of Tennessee; and Dr. Colin R. 
South, President, Mascoma Corporation. The subcommittee 
explored the potential for sustaining the renewable fuels 
sector for small businesses in rural America. Members heard 
from expert witnesses on issues dealing with industry growth 
and expansion, as well as the need for future investment in 
human capital in the renewable fuels industry and possible 
solutions to worker shortages.

                SMALL BUSINESS ENERGY TAX POSSIBILITIES

    On Wednesday, September 26, 2007 the Subcommittee on 
Contracting and Technology hearing entitled: ``Small Business 
Renewable Energy Tax Incentive Possibilities''. Considering 
energy tax policies will enhance the small business role in new 
alternative sources of energy by moving our country away from 
foreign sources of petroleum. The Subcommittee listened to 
testimony from expert witnesses on how more renewable energy 
investment can occur if changes are made to the Internal 
Revenue Code (IRC). The panelists discussed the importance of 
energy tax policy as a driving force behind renewable energy 
production and development, a field in which small businesses 
have been leading the way. The subcommittee heard how small 
businesses are suffering from high energy prices. The 
subcommittee listened to testimony from Mr. Quentin T. Kelly, 
Chairman & CEO, WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp.; Mr. 
Craig Breitbach, Director, Western Dubuque Biodiesel; Mr. Ed 
Woolsey, President, Green Prairie Wind Development; Mr. Kim 
Zuhlke, Vice President--New Generation, Alliant Energy 
Corporation; and Mr. John Hutchinson, Vice President--Finance, 
Powell Construction.

      PLAIN LANGUAGE IN PAPERWORK--THE BENEFITS TO SMALL BUSINESS

    On February 26, 2008, the Subcommittee on Contracting and 
Technology held a hearing entitled ``Plain Language in 
Paperwork--The Benefits to Small Business.'' The Chairman of 
the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Honorable 
Christopher Cox delivered testimony. The Subcommittee heard 
testimony from organizations representing small businesses, 
retired persons and a plain language expert. Witnesses 
discussed the complexities of government forms, notices and 
instructions. The Subcommittee examined how the use of plain 
language by the federal government can reduce the paperwork 
burden on small businesses.

                 THE DTV TRANSITION AND SMALL BUSINESS

    On May 7, 2008, the House Committee on Small Business 
Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology convened a hearing 
entitled ``The DTV Transition and Small Businesses: Small Firms 
Contributing to a Big Change.'' The Committee heard testimony 
from Mr. Greg Hephner, President, Hephner TV and Electronics 
Inc., Mr. Ed Pardini, Senior Vice President of Operations, 
Mediacom Communications, Mr. Keith Oliver, Senior Vice 
President of Corporate Operations, Home Telephone Company, and 
Mr. Jack Dempsey, General Manager of WJHL-TV in Johnson City, 
Tennessee. The hearing examined the impact of the DTV 
transition on small broadcasters, small cable and video service 
providers and small electronics retailers. The Subcommittee 
also considered whether there are appropriate measures Congress 
should take in order to minimize the burden of the DTV 
transition on small firms, particularly those small firms 
serving rural areas.

 OVERSIGHT OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION'S CONTRACTING PROGRAMS

    On April 16, 2008, the Subcommittee on Contracting and 
Technology held a hearing centered around SBA contracting 
programs. The Subcommittee considered the management and 
effectiveness of the 8(a), service-disabled veterans, and 
HUBZone programs, as well as the agency's proposal to implement 
the women's procurement program. The Committee heard testimony 
from Ms. Fay Ott, Associate Administrator for the Office of 
Government Contracting and Business Development, Small Business 
Administration; Ms. Margot Dorfman, CEO, U.S. Women's Chamber 
of Commerce; Mr. Chris Bates, President, National Office 
Products Alliance; Mr. Charles Day, Senior Member, Charles F. 
Day & Associates, LLC; and Ms. Aundrea Wilcox, Executive 
Director, Kingsport Office of Small Business Development & 
Entrepreneurship.

  ENSURING CONTINUITY OF CARE FOR VETERAN AMPUTEES: THE ROLE OF SMALL 
                          PROSTHETIC PRACTICES

    On Wednesday, July 16, 2008, the Subcommittee on 
Contracting and Technology held a hearing entitled ``Ensuring 
Continuity of Care for Veteran Amputees: The Role of Small 
Prosthetic Practices.'' Providing America's veterans with 
quality prosthetic care depends on the Veterans' Administration 
(VA) working closely with small prosthetic vendors to fill the 
service gaps in the VA's health care system. Despite the VA's 
efforts to ensure amputees have access to quality prosthetic 
care, prosthetic professionals claim the VA's procurement 
process does not reflect the rapidly changing face of the 
prosthetic's industry. Ultimately, practices contracting with 
the VA and veterans relying on them for care are being 
negatively impacted. Given these concerns, the hearing focused 
on the VA's relationship with independent prosthetic 
contractors and the VA's efforts to ensure continuity of care 
for amputees through the Veterans Integrated Service Network 
(VISN). Particular attention was given to identifying the 
future needs of amputee soldiers returning from Iraq and 
Afghanistan, and how the VA and independent prosthetic 
contractors can best work together to address their needs. 
Testimony was provided by 1) AAOP President James Roger on 
behalf of the American Academy of Orthotists & Prosthetists 
(AAOP); 2) Dennis Clark, President of Clark & Associates 
Prosthetics and Orthotics 3) Mr. Frederick Downs Jr., Chief 
Prosthetics and Clinical Logistics Officer, Veterans Health 
Administration; 4) NAAOP President Thomas Guth on behalf of the 
National Association for the Advancement of Orthotics and 
Prosthetics (NAAOP); 5) Christian Smith, President and Co-Owner 
of Victory Orthotics & Prosthetics, Inc.; and 6) Captain 
Matthew Bacik, Retired Army.

       SMALL BUSINESS RECOVERY FROM THE MIDWEST DISASTERS OF 2008

    On September 24, 2008, the Subcommittee on Contracting and 
Technology held a hearing entitled ``Small Business Recovery 
from the Midwest Disasters of 2008.'' Testimony was heard from 
the Small Business Administration official Jovita Carranza and 
affected business owners. Mr. Mike Tully, President and CEO of 
Aerial Services, Inc. in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Mr. David Wilke, 
owner of Wilke's Grocery Store in Elkader, Iowa. Mr. Don 
Bowers, the owner and operator of Tapken's Convenience Plus in 
Anamosa, Iowa. Mr. Don Karr, owner of Affordable Plumbing and 
Remodeling in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, a company that provides 
design, products, installation and repair for home improvement 
needs. Mr. Mike Monnahan, President of The Blue Strawberry 
Coffee Company, a popular coffee house located in downtown 
Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Mr. Randy Pilkington, who serves as 
Executive Director of Business and Community Services at the 
University of Northern Iowa in Waterloo, Iowa.
           Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade

                          Oversight Activities

       THE VALUE OF HEALTH IT TO SOLO AND SMALL MEDICAL PRACTICES

    On March 28, 2007, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health 
Care and Trade held a hearing ``The Value of Health IT to Solo 
and Small Medical Practices.'' The hearing focused on the 
importance of health IT to smaller health care practices, 
barriers to implementation, and what Congress can do to 
increase health IT adoption by solo and small group 
practitioners. Testimony was provided by Dr. Lynne M. Kirk, MD, 
FACP, the President of the American College of Physicians, Dr. 
Mark Leavitt, MD, PhD, Chairman, Certification Commission for 
Health Information Technology (CCHIT), Dr. Margaret Kelley, MD, 
a practicing OB/GYN in San Antonio, Texas, and Dr. David R. 
Shober, D.O, a family practice physician and Medical Staff 
President of Jameson Hospital in New Castle, Pennsylvania.

        ENSURING PROMPT PAYMENT FOR SMALL HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS

    On August 1, 2007, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health 
Care and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Ensuring Prompt 
Payment for Small Health Care Providers.'' The hearing focused 
on prompt payment of insurance claims by insurers to health 
care providers and how claim delays impact the operation of 
small health care practices. Testimony included an examination 
of state prompt payment laws as well as federal requirements 
under ERISA and government health care programs such as 
Medicare. Witnesses included Dr. Cecil B. Wilson, M.D., 
Immediate Past Chair of the Board of Trustees for the American 
Medical Association; Dr. Robert Merrill, D.D.S., M.S., Chairman 
of the Committee on Government Affairs for the American 
Association of Orthodontists; Dr. David Henkes, MD, Immediate 
Past President of the Bexar County Medical Society in San 
Antonio, Texas; Dr. Gordon T. Austin, D.M.D., P.C., President 
of the Northwest District of the Georgia Dental Association; 
and Dr. Frank B. Kelly, MD, Chair of the Communications Cabinet 
for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

                     MEDICARE'S REIMBURSEMENT CUTS

    On November 8th, 2007, the Subcommittee on Regulations, 
Health Care and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Medicare's 
Reimbursement Cuts: The Potential Impact on Solo and Small 
Group Practitioners and the Businesses they run.'' The hearing 
focused on the challenges faced by solo and small group 
practitioners; and how Medicare reimbursement cuts have 
impacted their practices. A primary focus of the hearing 
involved the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) that is used to 
determine the payment rates for physician reimbursements. 
Testimony was provided by Dr. Brad Fedderly, on behalf of the 
American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP); Dr. Jeffrey P. 
Harris, MD, FACP, on behalf of the American College of 
Physicians--American Society of Internal Medicine (ACP); Dr. 
Melinda Rother Allen, D.O., on behalf of the American 
Osteopathic Association (AOA); Dr. Kenneth L. Noller, MD, MS, 
on behalf of the Alliance of Specialty Medicine as well as the 
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; and Dr. 
John B. Whitlow, OD, on behalf of the American Optometric 
Association (AOA).

            MINORITY PARTICIPATION IN THE FEDERAL WORKFORCE

    On April 23, 2008, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health 
Care and Trade held an oversight hearing entitled ``Minority 
and Hispanic Participation in the Federal Workforce and Its 
Impact on the Small Business Community.'' The focus of this 
hearing was the federal government's efforts to address new 
challenges with their workforce, hiring and leadership 
succession. Five witnesses testified at the hearing: Ms. Nancy 
Kachik, the Associate Director for Strategic Human Resources 
Policy, Office of Personnel Management; Mr. Daryl Hairston, 
Deputy Associate Administrator, Office of Management and 
Administration; Mr. George H. Stalcup, Director, Strategic 
Issues, Government Accountability Office; Mr. Jose Osegueda, 
President and CEO of the National Association of Hispanic 
Federal Executives (NAHFE); and Mr. William Gil, Vice 
President, Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities 
(HACU).

              IMPACT OF ONLINE ADVERTISING ON SMALL FIRMS

    On June 25, 2008, at 10:00, the Subcommittee on 
Regulations, Health Care and Trade convened a hearing entitled 
``The Impact of Online Advertising on Small Firms.'' The 
Subcommittee heard testimony from Mr. Tim Carter, Founder, 
Askthebuilder.com, Mr. Paul Sanar, Founder & CEO, SkyFacet.com, 
Mr. Rob Snell, Co-owner of GunDogSupply.com, Mr. Randall 
Rothenberg, President and CEO of Interactive Advertising Bureau 
and Mr. Richard Lent, Founder and CEO of AgencyNet. The hearing 
examined the benefits of on-line advertising to smaller firms 
and the increasing importance of on-line marketing strategies 
to many successful small businesses. The hearing also 
considered concerns that some small companies have raised about 
the challenge of driving traffic to their websites.

            CMS REGULATIONS AND SMALL HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS

    On May 14, 2008, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health 
Care and Trade held a hearing entitled ``The Impact of CMS 
Regulations and Programs on Small Health Care Providers.'' Mr. 
Timothy Hill, the Chief Financial Officer of the Centers for 
Medicare and Medicaid Services delivered testimony. The 
Subcommittee heard testimony from organizations representing 
small health care providers including physicians, clinical labs 
and a home care provider. The pharmacy industry delivered 
testimony. Witnesses discussed how CMS regulations and programs 
are affecting small firms.

                   REGULATORY BURDENS ON SMALL FIRMS

    On July 30, 2008, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health 
Care and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Regulatory Burdens on 
Small Firms: What Rules Need Reforms?'' The Subcommittee heard 
testimony from the Administrator of the Office of Information 
and Regulatory Affairs at the Office of Management and Budget, 
Susan E. Dudley; the Chief Counsel for Advocacy, Small Business 
Administration, Thomas M. Sullivan; and the Deputy Commissioner 
of the Small Business/Self-Employed Division at the Internal 
Revenue Service, Chris Wagner. Organizations representing small 
businesses, architects and the self-employed also delivered 
testimony. Witnesses discussed the burdens of existing 
regulations on entrepreneurs, and how agencies are complying 
with the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The hearing examined the 
Office of Advocacy's regulatory reform initiative.
            Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship

                          Oversight Activities

            BROADBAND POLICY AND RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

    On May 9, 2007, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban 
Entrepreneurship convened a hearing entitled ``Maximizing the 
Value of Broadband in Rural Communities.'' The Subcommittee 
heard testimony from Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein, 
Commissioner, Federal Communications Commission, Mr. Brandon 
Stephens, Chairman of the Board, BalsamWest FiberNET, Mr. T. 
Russell Shields, Founder, Ygomi LLC, Mr. Russ Kremer, 
President, Missouri Farmers Union, Mr. Brent J. Christensen, 
Vice President and General Manager of Christensen 
Communications Company, Mr. Brian Mefford, President and CEO, 
ConnectKentucky, Mr. William Deere, Vice President, Government 
Affairs, US Telecom. The hearing examined the role broadband 
services can play in revitalizing rural economies.

  HOW CAN SMALL BUSINESSES BEST ADDRESS THE HEALTHCARE NEEDS OF THEIR 
                               EMPLOYEES?

    On August 30, 2007, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban 
Entrepreneurship held a field hearing in Asheville, NC, 
entitled ``How Can Small Businesses Best Address the Healthcare 
Needs of Their Employees?'' The hearing focused on barriers to 
offering insurance coverage faced by small business owners, 
factors which influence the decision of small businesses to 
offer coverage, and possible solutions to bringing down costs 
and increasing coverage. Witnesses included small business 
owners from the Asheville, North Carolina, community. Testimony 
addressed small business concerns about the structure of the 
small group health insurance market and the tax treatment of 
small firms.

                   USDA AND SBA PROGRAM HARMONIZATION

    Chairman Heath Shuler (D-NC) on Wednesday, November 14. 
2007, at 10:00 a.m., convened a Subcommittee on Rural and Urban 
Entrepreneurship hearing entitled: ``Program Harmonization in 
Rural America--How the Small Business Administration (SBA) and 
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Can Work Together to 
Better Serve Small Businesses''. The subcommittee considered 
and examined how Small Business Administration (SBA) and U.S. 
Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs have worked, and 
gained a better understanding and how the two agencies can work 
better together in the future through potential program 
harmonization and improved communications. The subcommittee 
gleaned knowledge from the small business community that 
included distinguished guests such as: Mr. William Shear, 
Director, Financial Markets and Community Investments, 
Government Accountability Office (GAO); Ms. Katy Ziegler, Vice 
President of Government Relations, National Farmers Union 
(NFU); Mr. Dale Carroll, President and Chief Executive Officer, 
Advantage West Economic Development Group; Michael Myhre, CPA, 
State Director, Minnesota Small Business Development Center 
Network, On Behalf of the Association of Small Business 
Development Centers; and Mr. Leon Milobar, Nebraska District 
Office, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

SBA ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS AND NATIONAL VETERANS BUSINESS 
                        DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

    On March 12, 2008, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban 
Entrepreneurship held a hearing entitled ``Oversight of the 
Entrepreneurial Development Programs Implemented by the Small 
Business Administration and National Veterans Business 
Development Corporation.'' Oversight was conducted for the 
Small Business Administration's (SBA) Entrepreneurial 
Development (ED) portfolio and to evaluate the effectiveness of 
the National Veterans Business Development Corporation's 
efforts to serve the needs of veteran small business owners. 
The purpose of the hearing was to consider the management 
approach and distribution of federal resources to implement 
these programs, particularly given the recent release of the 
administration's FY 2009 budget in combination with weakening 
economic conditions.
    The Committee received testimony from the SBA Associate 
Administrator for Entrepreneurial Development regarding the 
agency's upcoming budget and management plans for these 
programs. Entrepreneurial development program operators, 
including representatives of the Association of Small Business 
Development Centers and Women's Business Centers, as well as 
the Service Corps of Retired Executives, testified on the 
programs' capacities to meet the needs of small businesses and 
provided recommendations to improve the structure as well as 
delivery of the agency's ED programs. The Executive Director of 
the National Veterans Business Development Corporation (NVBDC) 
also testified on the effectiveness of the organization in 
assisting veterans to become successful entrepreneurs.

   SECOND GENERATION BIOFUELS--THE NEW FRONTIER FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

    On Wednesday June 11, 2008, at 10:00 a.m., the Subcommittee 
on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship convened a hearing 
entitled: ``Second Generation Biofuels--the New Frontier for 
Small Businesses.'' This forum provided a discussion of the 
current renewable fuels programs, and how they apply to the 
next generation fuels. It also enabled the subcommittee to 
consider future policies that will further develop the 
industry's future. To sustain the growth and development of 
this industry, the subcommittee looked forward to the next 
generation of renewable fuels derived from alternative inputs. 
This subcommittee heard testimony about growth opportunities 
newer technologies for renewable fuels production can provide 
in the future. Witnesses included: Dr. Robert J. Wooley, 
Director, Process Engineering, Abengoa Bioenergy New 
Technology; Mr. Scott Barnwell, General Manager, Blue Ridge 
Biofuels in Asheville, NC; Mr. Tom Todaro, CEO, Targeted Growth 
and Sustainable Oils; Mr. Jeffrey M. Trucksess, Executive Vice 
President, Green Earth Fuels, LLC; and Mr. Robert Byrnes, 
Nebraska Renewable Energy Systems.

           COMPETITIVE BIDDING FOR DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

    On Wednesday, May 21, 2008, the Subcommittee on Rural and 
Urban Entrepreneurship held a hearing entitled ``Competitive 
Bidding for Durable Medical Equipment.'' Small durable medical 
equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) 
suppliers have experienced difficulty with the competitive 
bidding program. Many claim the bidding program is fraught with 
procedural flaws and operational problems that call into 
question the fairness of the overall process. Given these 
concerns, the hearing focused on the bidding program's 
structure, operational problems, and the financial impact it 
could have on DMEPOS suppliers and manufacturers. Testimony was 
provided by Laurence Wilson, Director of DMEPOS Policy, Centers 
for Medicare and Medicaid Services; Julie Weidemann on behalf 
of the VGM Group; Dr. Bob Haralson M.D. on behalf of the 
American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons; Dr. Rebecca H. 
Wartman O.D. on behalf of American Optometric Association; 
Linwood Staub on behalf of the Advanced Medical Technology 
Association; Dr. Rebecca H. Wartman O.D. on behalf of the 
American Optometric Association; Casey Hite on behalf of the 
American Association for Homecare (AAHomecare) and the North 
Carolina Association of Medical Equipment Services; Heath 
Sutton on behalf of Mountaineer Oxygen Services; Jon Einfalt on 
behalf of the Association of Community Pharmacists; and Mr. 
Gary Gilberti on behalf of the National Coalition for Assistive 
and Rehab Technology.
              Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight

                          Oversight Activities

           COMPETITIVE BIDDING FOR DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

    On October 31, 2007, Subcommittee on Investigations and 
Oversight held a hearing entitled ``Competitive Bidding for 
Durable Medical Equipment: Will Small Suppliers Be Able to 
Compete?'' The hearing focused on how the competitive bidding 
program for certain durable medical equipment, prosthetics, 
orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) has been structured, the 
manner in which it will be implemented, and its impact on small 
business suppliers and manufacturers. Additional attention was 
also given to alternative approaches to the program. Testimony 
on the subject was provided by Laurence Wilson, Director of 
DMEPOS Policy, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; 
Georgetta Blackburn on behalf of the American Association for 
Home Care; Dr. Ross Taubman, President Elect of the American 
Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) will testify on behalf of 
the APMA; John Shirvinsky on behalf of Pennsylvania Association 
of Medical Suppliers; Carol Gilligan, on behalf of Health Aid 
of Ohio, Inc.; Richard Saxon, on Behalf of the Advanced Medical 
Technology Association (AdvaMed); and Jose Navarro, on behalf 
of the National Association of Chain Drug Stores.

       SBA'S RESPONSE TO THE JULY 5TH FLOODS IN BEAVER COUNTY, PA

    On August 23, 2007, the Subcommittee on Investigations and 
Oversight held a field hearing in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, 
entitled ``The SBA's Response to the July 5 Floods in Beaver 
County, Pennsylvania.'' That hearing focused on the SBA's 
response to flooding that occurred in Beaver County 
Pennsylvania on July 5, 2007. The Committee received testimony 
from the SBA's Associate Administrator for Disaster Assistance, 
as well as from the Chairman of the Beaver County Board of 
Commissioners, the Beaver County Chamber of Commerce, the 
Director of the local library, and a small business owner from 
Aliquippa. These individuals provided testimony on the effects 
of the flooding, the status of SBA assistance in the community, 
and progress that had been made in recovering from the flood.

           NATIONAL VETERANS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

    On May 2, 2007, the Subcommittee on Investigations and 
Oversight held a hearing entitled ``Is the Veterans Corporation 
Prepared to Provide Entrepreneurial Development Assistance to 
Service Men and Women Returning from Iraq & Afghanistan?'' The 
hearing focused on the National Veterans Business Development 
Corporation (Veterans Corporation), a public-private 
organization designed to provide entrepreneurial development 
assistance to veterans seeking to start and expand businesses. 
The focus of the hearing was considering the effectiveness of 
Veteran Corporation to assist recent veterans of the Iraq and 
Afghanistan wars. The Committee received testimony from 
administrators of the Veterans Corporation and the Small 
Business Administration's Veterans Affairs Office regarding 
ongoing assistance and new programs for former service members. 
Representatives of veteran service organization testified 
regarding the Veterans Corporation's limited outreach, service 
delivery, and performance accountability while suggesting 
modifications to the organization.

                      SBIR AND MEDICAL INNOVATIONS

    On February 13, 2008, the Subcommittee on Investigations 
and Oversight convened a hearing entitled ``SBIR: Advancing 
Medical Innovations.'' The hearing examined the impact of the 
SBIR program on the development of innovative medical 
technologies, therapies and products. The Subcommittee heard 
testimony from Jo Anne Goodnight SBIR/STTR Program Coordinator, 
National Institutes of Health, Amy Comstock Rick, Chief 
Executive Officer, Parkinson's Action Network, Mel Billingsley, 
President and CEO, Life Sciences Greenhouse, James D. 
Stefansic, Chief Technology Officer, Pathfinder Therapeutics, 
Inc., and Charles Matthews, Nicholas Franano, Chief Scientific 
Officer, Proteon Therapeutics, Inc.

        THE IMPACT OF INCREASING GAS PRICES ON SMALL BUSINESSES

    On April 9, 2008, the Subcommittee on Investigations and 
Oversight held a hearing entitled: ``The Impact of Increasing 
Gas Prices on Small Businesses.'' Rising prices and volatile 
supplies of gasoline and diesel fuel impacts small businesses' 
bottom line and ability to do business at a time when our 
economy is heavily reliant on transportation to move products 
to and from the marketplace.
    The subcommittee heard from experts from Mr. John 
Urbanchuk, Economist, LECG; Mr. Tim Williford, Chairman 
Government Affairs Committee, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling 
Contractors--National Association; Mr. Gary Gilberti, 
Chesapeake Rehab Equipment; Mr. Michael J. Graff, President & 
CEO, Graff Trucking, Inc.; and Mr. Vincent F. Orza, Jr., Dean, 
Meinders School of Business, Oklahoma City University.
    The witnesses presented testimony focusing on a wide range 
of issues including: plans for the future to deal with high 
energy costs; changes and modifications to their business plans 
in order to accommodate and absorb rising costs; dealing with 
the inability to invest in new capital due to the higher cost 
of gas; and the overall adverse impact prices at the pump have 
on their particular business sector.

                       NURSING HOME SAFETY ISSUES

    On Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at 10:00 am in Room 1539 of the 
Longworth House Office Building, the Subcommittee on 
Investigations and Oversight of the Committee on Small Business 
met for the purposes of examining the impact of criminals and 
sexual predators on the operations of small businesses that 
operate long-term care facilities, either intermediate care 
facilities (ICFs)\13\ or skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) 
collectively and colloquially referred to as nursing homes. The 
hearing assessed the regulatory problems associated with the 
placement of criminals and sexual predators in nursing homes by 
state officials and the industry's response to that problem. 
Witnesses from the nursing home industry, victim advocacy and 
other interested parties testified on the subject matter.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    \13\ICFs provide long-term care for residents who do not require 
the 24-hour nursing services available in SNFs. These institutions, 
along with definitions for SNFs, were made in 1967 amendments to the 
Medicare statute. National Academy of Science, Institute of Medicine, 
Improving the Quality of Care in Nursing Homes 242 (1986).
                 OVERSIGHT PLAN FOR THE 110TH CONGRESS

    Clause 2(d) of rule X of the Rules of the House of 
Representatives for the 110th Congress requires that each 
standing committee in the first session of a congress adopt an 
oversight plan for the two-year period of the Congress and 
submit the plan to the Committee on Government Reform and the 
Committee on House Administration.
    Clause 1(d)(1) of rule XI requires each committee to submit 
to the House not later than January 2 of each odd-numbered 
year, a report on the activities of that committee under rules 
X and XI during the Congress ending on January 3 of such year. 
Clause 1(d)(3) of rule XI also requires that the report include 
a summary of the oversight plans submitted pursuant to clause 
2(d) of rule X; a summary of the actions taken and 
recommendations made with respect to each such plan; and a 
summary of any additional oversight activities undertaken by 
the committee and any recommendations made or actions taken 
thereon.
    Part A of this section contains the Oversight Plan of the 
Committee on Small Business for the One Hundred Tenth Congress, 
which the Committee considered and adopted on January 31, 2007.
    Part B of this section contains a summary of the actions 
taken to implement that plan and the recommendations made with 
respect to the plan. Additional oversight activities undertaken 
by the Committee, and the recommendations made or actions taken 
thereon, are contained in the specific sections relating to the 
activities of the full Committee and each of the subcommittees.
                                 PART A

 OVERSIGHT PLAN OF THE COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS FOR THE ONE HUNDRED 
                             TENTH CONGRESS

                              ----------                              


January 31, 2007. Approved by the Committee on Small Business. Approved 
                   by the Committee on Small Business

                              ----------                              

    Ms. Velazquez, from the Committee on Small Business, 
submitted to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform 
and the Committee on House Administration the following

                                 REPORT

    Clause 2(d)(1) of rule X of the Rules of the House of 
Representatives for the 110th Congress requires each standing 
committee, no later than February 15 of the first session to 
adopt an oversight plan for the 110th Congress. The oversight 
plan must be submitted simultaneously to the Committee on 
Oversight and Government Reform and the Committee on House 
Administration.
    The following agenda constitutes the oversight plan of the 
Committee on Small Business for the 110th Congress. It includes 
areas in which the Committee and its subcommittees expect to 
conduct oversight during this Congress, but does not preclude 
oversight or investigation of additional matters or programs as 
they arise. The Committee will consult, as appropriate, with 
other committees of the House that may share jurisdiction on 
any of the subjects listed below.
I. Oversight of the Small Business Administration
    A. Agency Management. The Committee will review the 
management of the Agency's programs, personnel, and financial 
resources. The Committee will examine methods the SBA uses to 
manage risk in its loan portfolio and review the agency's 
policies and practices regarding its lending partners. The 
Committee will review the agency's outreach and public/private 
funding initiatives through cooperative agreements, 
partnerships and co-sponsorships. Further, the Committee will 
evaluate the status of the SBA's transformation plan, personnel 
training initiatives, and incentive programs. The Committee 
also will review the working relationship between the agency 
and its Inspector General to ensure that management 
recommendations and objectives are being actively considered. 
Finally, the Committee will continue to assess the agency's 
financial management and reporting goals.
    B. Lending Programs. The Committee will examine the SBA's 
lending programs to ensure that they meet the needs of small 
businesses. The Committee will examine ways to reduce the cost 
of the 7(a) loan program to both small businesses and lenders. 
In addition, the Committee will review proposals that would 
expand and broaden the program's reach, including those focused 
on low-income and rural areas. The Committee will conduct 
oversight hearings regarding the 504 Certified Development 
Company program to ensure that it is properly carrying out its 
mission of economic development and job creation. The Committee 
will also review the Microloan program with the intent of 
reducing barriers to its growth and expansion.
    C. Investment Programs. The Committee will study the impact 
of the recent termination of the Small Business Investment 
Company (SBIC) Participating Securities program on 
entrepreneurs. In particular, the Committee will seek to 
understand the effect of its termination on early stage firms 
as well as on investment companies. The Committee will examine 
proposals that would reopen the SBIC Participating Securities 
program, as well as alternative venture capital investment 
initiatives. Finally, the Committee will consider policy 
changes that would increase individual angel investment and 
foster small business growth.
    D. Disaster Programs. The Committee will evaluate the SBA's 
disaster programs to ensure that they can meet the needs of 
small businesses affected by disasters. This includes reviewing 
policy proposals that would make more effective use of private 
sector lenders, improve the agency's response times, better 
coordinate the agency's program with other federal efforts, and 
provide for improved system resiliency. The Committee will 
oversee any actions the agency has taken to modify the disaster 
program. Finally, the Committee will consider policy and 
organizational alternatives for providing disaster assistance 
to homeowners.
    E. Entrepreneurial Development Programs. The Committee will 
evaluate the SBA's Entrepreneurial Development programs and 
whether existing initiatives have the capacity to meet the 
needs of their growing and diverse constituencies. The 
Committee will ascertain whether the Small Business Development 
Centers network has the capacity and infrastructure to provide 
assistance to address the unique challenges facing small 
business, particularly with respect to energy, regulatory 
fairness, healthcare, and under-served entrepreneurs. The 
Committee will examine the Women Business Centers program to 
look for ways to meet the mutual goal of creating new Centers 
versus the sustainability of existing Centers. In carrying out 
this review, the Committee will study whether the 
sustainability funding formula needs modification to ensure 
that the original intent of the program's creators is met.
    F. Government Contracting and Business Development 
Programs. The Committee will oversee the SBA's efforts to 
maximize small business participation in the federal 
marketplace. In particular, SBA's role in mitigating bundled 
contracts will be assessed. Further, the Committee will review 
SBA's role in the miscoding of the size of businesses awarded 
federal government contracts. The Committee will examine the 
SBA's 8(a) program to ensure that its rules and regulations do 
not impede minority business growth and development. The 
Committee will review the HUBZone program to ensure that the 
program is being utilized properly by contracting officers and 
the program is meeting its objective of promoting economic 
development in poor regions of the United States. The Committee 
will assess the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Procurement 
Program to ensure that it is being properly carried out. 
Finally, the Committee will make certain that the Women's 
Procurement Program is implemented by the SBA.
    G. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small 
Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. As part of its 
efforts to reauthorize the SBIR program during the 110th 
Congress, the Committee will evaluate the effectiveness of the 
program and will endeavor to gather first-hand testimony from 
SBIR program administrators, SBIR program participants, and 
relevant experts. The Committee will investigate potential 
changes to the SBIR program that would advance critical 
national priorities including energy independence and economic 
development in urban and rural empowerment zones and enterprise 
communities. The Committee will also examine the STTR program's 
effectiveness as a means to help small businesses gain access 
to technologies developed at federal laboratories.
    H. Office of Advocacy. The Committee will assess the Office 
of Advocacy's Economic Research programs to determine if they 
meet the underlying mission of the Office.
    I. Veterans Corporation. The Committee will review the on-
going activities of the National Veterans Business Development 
Corporation to determine whether the Corporation is serving as 
an effective advocate for veteran-owned businesses. In 
particular, the Committee will evaluate the relationship 
between the SBA and the Corporation to identify whether the SBA 
is working cooperatively with the Corporation or whether work 
is being unnecessarily replicated. The Committee will identify 
whether the Corporation's efforts at expanding and enhancing 
private funding options have been successful. The Committee 
also will investigate whether additional federal investment is 
warranted and, if so, for what duration.
II. Agriculture
    A. Federal Agricultural Policy. The Committee will examine 
the impact of federal policies on family farms, ranchers, and 
rural small businesses. The Committee will conduct oversight 
hearings on Farm Bill reauthorization legislation to 
investigate the policies' effects on the income, production 
costs, and prices received by small producers.
    B. Financial Assistance. The Committee will examine federal 
resources, including loans and fee subsidies, which spur 
private enterprises in rural areas. The Committee will evaluate 
federal programs that provide training, information, and 
networking resources to enhance entrepreneurial activity in 
these regions.
    C. Biofuels. The Committee will examine the role that 
farmers and rural businesses can play in the development of 
biofuels. The Committee will examine the operational needs of 
small farmers working to shift production from food to energy 
crops and to build facilities to refine alternative resources.
    D. Value Added Products. The Committee will increase 
oversight of financing and technical assistance programs that 
assist small farmers' expansion into emerging niche 
agricultural markets, including organic products. The Committee 
will examine the operational needs of small farmers working to 
add value to outputs and maintain competitiveness in the 
changing marketplace.
    E. Rural Economic Development. The Committee will oversee 
federal activities to spur economic development in rural 
communities. The Committee will conduct hearings on the 
physical and financial infrastructure needed to maintain and 
grow small rural businesses.
III. Energy
    A. Energy Prices. The Committee will conduct hearings on 
the impacts of rising energy and petroleum prices on small 
businesses, particularly fuel intensive sectors, such as 
farming, transportation, and those that use petroleum products 
as feedstock.
    B. Relief Measures. The Committee will examine price relief 
measures in existing and upcoming energy legislation and their 
application to small businesses struggling under burdensome 
fuel costs.
    C. Energy Efficiency. The Committee will investigate 
methods to increase energy efficiency and resource conservation 
practices for small businesses. The Committee will increase 
oversight of federal initiatives to streamline business 
operations and reduce operational costs for small firms.
IV. Financial services
    A. Trends in Small Business Financing. To better understand 
the mechanisms that small firms are using to fund their 
business, the Committee will examine recent research, including 
the Federal Reserve's Survey of Small Business Finances.
    B. Access to Financial Services. The Committee will review 
federal laws that impede small businesses fair access to 
financial services such as their ability to receive interest on 
checking accounts or to have a variety of potential lending 
options.
    C. Role of Small Lenders. The Committee will endeavor to 
assess the impact of consolidation in the financial services 
industry on small lenders and small business borrowers. In 
addition, the Committee will review industry trends and 
regulatory developments that may reduce the availability of 
financing to small firms.
    D. Insurance. The Committee will evaluate the use of 
insurance products by small businesses, including property/
casualty lines. The Committee will assess the impact of federal 
insurance reforms on small insurance firms and small business 
insured. Finally, the Committee will examine the tort liability 
system and its impact on the cost of insurance, particularly 
for small businesses.
    E. Capital Formation. The Committee will examine challenges 
that small businesses face in raising capital. This will 
include a review of federal securities laws and regulations 
that affect small firms, such as Securities and Exchange 
regulation S-B.
V. Health care
    A. Access to Affordable Health Coverage and State Market 
Reforms. The Committee will evaluate a number of health care 
policies designed to expand access to affordable health 
insurance through small employers. The Committee will look at 
proposed federal changes to give small employers greater 
options for coverage. The Committee will examine current and 
proposed state initiatives to promote coverage and the impact 
of these reforms on small employers in those markets. The 
Committee will examine the impact of these changes on the small 
group health insurance market.
    B. Expanding Available Options for Small Employers to 
Purchase Health Insurance. The Committee will examine options 
for removing barriers to affordable small employer coverage. 
The Committee will conduct hearings to review new and emerging 
policies to increase access to affordable health care coverage. 
These possible changes include, but are not limited to, 
increasing pooling mechanisms for small businesses, reinsurance 
models, and ERISA reforms.
    C. Tax Credits. The Committee will examine the possibility 
of tax credits to promote coverage and their impact on small 
employers. In particular, the Committee seeks to understand 
whether tax credits are a viable vehicle for health care market 
reform and the budgetary effect of such changes. The Committee 
will hold hearings to explore tax credits and other approaches 
to encourage small employer purchase of coverage for their 
employees.
    D. Health IT Adoption. The Committee will conduct hearings 
to evaluate the economic benefits derived through the adoption 
of a uniform, secure, interoperable health information 
technology infrastructure (Health IT) by small health care 
groups--i.e., physicians, vendors and other providers. In 
particular, the Committee will consider the degree to which 
Health IT creates market efficiencies and whether those 
advantages will exist for small groups. The Committee will 
evaluate the challenges of Health IT adoption.
    E. Health Care Cost and Quality. The Committee will examine 
efforts to increase access to information on the cost and 
quality of health care. The Committee will conduct hearings to 
explore how access to cost and quality information can affect 
the purchase of insurance by small employers.
    F. Health Care Provider Compensation and Regulatory 
Structure. The Committee will examine federal reimbursement of 
health care providers and the effect that such reimbursement 
decisions have on non-Medicare/Medicaid insurer reimbursement 
to physicians and other healthcare providers. The Committee 
will evaluate state regulation, such as insurance laws that 
affect provider compensation and business organization. The 
Committee will hold hearings to consider how current practices 
within the health care market affect small health care 
providers.
VI. Immigration
    The Committee will review proposals to reform the nation's 
immigration system to ensure that small businesses will be able 
to readily access a high-quality workforce. The Committee will 
examine reform proposals to ensure that enforcement, security 
and economic needs are appropriately balanced.
VII. International trade
    A. International Agreements. The Committee will hold 
hearings on the impact of new and existing international 
commitments on the small business sector. The Committee will 
increase oversight of ongoing international negotiations to 
ensure trade regulations, standards, and facilitation measures 
serve the needs of small businesses.
    B. Trade Enforcement. The Committee will evaluate trade 
enforcement activities, particularly affecting intellectual 
property rights, and methods to protect small businesses from 
unfair trade practices. The Committee will investigate trade 
remedies for firms adjusting to pressures from low-cost 
overseas and corporate producers.
    C. Export Assistance. The Committee will examine efforts to 
increase small businesses' access to global markets, including 
initiatives to reduce excessively burdensome administrative and 
legal requirements. The Committee will conduct oversight of 
federal export assistance programs, including those conducted 
by the Export-Import Bank, the SBA, and the United States 
Departments of Commerce and Agriculture, which seek to reduce 
small firms' costs of expanding into international markets.

VIII. Pensions and retirement

    A. The Committee will examine the current state of pension 
coverage for small employers. The Committee will look at 
reforms to improve the plan options for small businesses and 
possible ways to defray administrative costs of operating the 
plan. The Committee will hold hearings to look at innovative 
ways to promote coverage for small businesses and their 
employees. This will include looking at modifications to 
defined benefit and defined contribution plans to encourage 
coverage.
    B. The Committee will assess the impact of recently passed 
pension legislation on small employer's ability to offer 
pension plans. This will include an examination of the impacts 
on promoting coverage and addressing any concerns over 
increased liabilities of offering a pension plan.

IX. Procurement

    A. Federal Procurement Practices. The Committee recognizes 
the increase in use of contracting methods such as interagency 
contracting and electronic procurement and will work to ensure 
that these procedures allow the full participation by small 
businesses. The Committee will work to make sure that the 
regulations are being followed in a manner that enables 
competition, increases small business procurement 
opportunities, and provides the government with the best value.
    B. Transparency. The Committee will work to increase 
transparency in federal procurement activities. Greater 
transparency will allow agencies to be evaluated fairly on 
their commitment to competition, integrity, and best value, as 
well as their support of small business and entrepreneurship.
    C. 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes. The Committee will continue 
to monitor the recovery efforts related to the 2005 Gulf Coast 
Hurricanes as well as investigate past contracting actions 
related to those events. The Committee will specifically look 
at emergency procurement practices, such as the use of no-bid 
contracts and increasing the micropurchase threshold, to 
enhance small business participation as prime contractors while 
ensuring maximum competition to the extent permitted by the 
necessities of the emergency.
    D. Iraqi Reconstruction. The Committee will monitor the 
contracts awarded for the reconstruction of Iraq, with an 
emphasis on ensuring that small businesses have received fair 
prime contracting and subcontracting opportunities. The 
Committee will hold accountable those agencies and contractors 
who fail to provide competition as required by law.
    E. Contract Bundling. The practice of contract bundling 
displaces small businesses from the federal marketplace. The 
Committee will continue to monitor the use of ``bundled'' 
contracts and ensure that regulations are being followed. The 
Committee will continue to work to ``unbundle'' contracts when 
appropriate.
    F. Federal Contracting Goal. The Committee will review 
federal agencies performance in meeting annual contracting 
goals. In order to foster greater small business participation 
in the federal marketplace, the Committee will seek to work 
with agencies that have historically underperformed in meeting 
their contracting goals.
    G. Sole Source Contracting. The Committee will continue to 
monitor the use of sole-source contracts, particularly with 
regard to Alaska Native Corporations. The Committee will work 
to ensure that all socio-economic contracting programs are 
operating as intended.
    H. Agency Miscounting of Contracts. As a follow-up to a 
hearing in which GAO found that agencies were counting 
contracts awarded to large corporations towards their small 
business procurement goals, the Committee will investigate the 
sufficiency of agencies' efforts to rectify the problem. The 
Committee also will investigate the adequacy of the Federal 
Procurement Data System and its capabilities to record accurate 
data on federal procurement by government agencies, especially 
as it relates to the size of the business awarded a contract.
    I. Inaccurate Reporting of Federal Contracting Awards. The 
Committee will evaluate the accuracy of procurement data used 
to determine the small business goal and whether agencies 
knowingly relied on inaccurate data to achieve these goals. The 
Committee will examine the causes for such inaccuracies, 
including, but not limited to, management oversight, 
appropriateness of procurement policies, and adequacy of funds.
    J. Contracting Certifications by Business. The Committee 
will investigate if any large businesses improperly certified 
themselves as small in order to receive contracts. Furthermore, 
the Committee will assess whether federal procurement officials 
took any actions to uncover these problems and implemented 
steps to prevent them. Should the Committee uncover 
questionable practices, it will report them to the appropriate 
enforcement authorities.

X. Regulations

    The Committee will examine federal agency rules and 
regulations, as well as legislation that proposes such rules 
and regulations, to ensure that small businesses are not 
subject to undue regulatory burdens. In doing so the Committee 
will focus on:
          A. Whether the regulation imposes unnecessary 
        barriers to competitive market entry by small 
        businesses and places small businesses at a competitive 
        disadvantage with respect to larger competitors, 
        including the impact that Section 404 of the Sarbanes 
        Oxley Act is having on the competitiveness of small 
        companies;
          B. Whether the regulation minimizes recordkeeping and 
        reporting requirements including the elimination of any 
        duplicative requirements as required by the Paperwork 
        Reduction Act;
          C. Whether the rules and regulations are in plain 
        English;
          D. Whether the rules and regulations are 
        indistinguishable of existing state and local 
        regulations; and
          E. Whether small businesses are provided sufficient 
        compliance assistance including small entity compliance 
        guides issued by agencies as mandated by the Small 
        Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act.
    In addition, the Committee will examine the agency process 
for promulgating rules and regulations to include:
          A. The adequacy of an agency's compliance with the 
        Regulatory Flexibility Act;
          B. Whether the agency minimized burdens and maximized 
        benefits for small businesses while achieving its 
        statutory and regulatory objectives; and
          C. Whether small businesses have been provided 
        sufficient opportunity to comment and provide input 
        into the development of regulations.

XI. Tax

    A. Tax Simplification and Relief. The Committee will hold 
hearings on the concerns over the growing complexity of the tax 
code for small employers. The Committee will work to identify 
ways to simplify the tax code and reduce the tax burden on 
small business owners. The Committee will focus on changes to 
the tax code that provide targeted tax relief and equity for 
small business owners. In addition, the Committee will examine 
any specific tax relief including, but not limited to, 
expensing and depreciation that will spur investment by small 
businesses.
    B. Alternative Minimum Tax. The Committee will examine ways 
to reform the alternative minimum tax to provide tax relief for 
small businesses. The Committee will review proposed changes 
and the budgetary costs of making such modifications.
    C. Tax Gap Efforts by the IRS. The Committee will examine 
recent efforts by the IRS to close the so-called ``Tax Gap'' 
and the impact of these measures on small businesses. The 
Committee shall review efforts by the agency that have a 
negative impact on small businesses. The Committee will examine 
measures to close the tax gap through legislative changes and 
the impact of these changes on small businesses.
    D. Investment in Small Business and New Markets Tax Credit. 
The Committee will review what is being done to encourage 
economic growth and investment in small businesses through the 
tax code. The Committee will look at ways to encourage equity 
investment in small businesses. The Committee will look at the 
current state of the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) program.
    E. Estate Tax. The Committee will examine the impact of the 
sunset of the estate tax repeal on business planning and the 
ability of small businesses to continue as going enterprises 
after the deaths of the founders.

XII. Technology and innovation

    A. Technology Workforce. The Committee will further 
investigate the regulations governing the annual cap on H-1B 
visas and the process by which such visas are issued, in light 
of the challenge small technology companies have in hiring and 
retaining scientists, researchers and engineers.
    B. Financing for Startups. The Committee will review the 
eligibility requirements of the Small Business Innovation 
Research (SBIR) program with respect to venture capital 
investment to ensure that small companies are afforded a wide 
array of financing options. In addition, the Committee will 
examine the eligibility requirements for the SBIR program to 
determine the extent that venture capital investment should be 
permitted in the program.
    C. Broadband. The Committee will assess the role that small 
companies can play in the development and expansion of wireless 
and wire line broadband technologies. The Committee also will 
review the impact on the planned spectrum auctions will have on 
small business. This review will examine the process by which 
the Federal Communications Commission complies with 3(a)(2) of 
the Small Business Act while meeting its obligations under 332 
of the Federal Communications Act of 1934 to provide 
opportunities for designated entities including small 
businesses.
    D. Development of Energy Efficient Technologies. The 
efforts of technology companies to create and promote energy 
efficient devices will be examined, as well as ways that the 
federal government could encourage more of America's small 
businesses to adopt ``green'' technologies. The Committee will 
look at the potential modifications to the Small Business 
Innovation Research (SBIR) program that could advance national 
energy independence. The Committee also will examine whether 
changes made by the Energy Policy Act of 2005 affect the 
viability of renewable energy generators.
    E. eWaste. The Committee will review the efforts that the 
technology industry, particularly small companies, is making to 
address the growing challenge of recycling computer equipment 
and peripherals.
                                 PART B

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OVERSIGHT PLAN OF THE COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS 
                   FOR THE ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS

I. Oversight of the Small Business Administration
            A. Agency management
    The Committee continued to oversee the management of the 
SBA through hearing on the agency's FY 2008 and FY 2009 budget 
proposals. These hearings, as well as associated meetings and 
interviews with agency personnel, informed the Committee of the 
SBA's managerial operations. On February 8, 2007 the Committee 
on Small Business held a hearing of the SBA's proposed budget 
for FY 2008. This hearing included a review of the 
administration's funding requests as well as agency management 
of key policy initiatives for the fiscal year. The Committee 
heard testimony from SBA Administrator Steven Preston. On 
February 7, 2008 the Committee on Small Business held a hearing 
of the SBA's proposed budget for FY 2009. This hearing included 
a review of the administration's funding requests as well as 
agency management of key policy initiatives for the fiscal 
year. The Committee heard testimony from SBA Administrator 
Steven Preston.
    In addition to the annual budget hearings, the Committee 
held several hearings on SBA's management of agency programs, 
including those related to disaster assistance, entrepreneurial 
development, lending, and contracting. Finally, the Committee 
requested a GAO investigation into the agency's management of 
the HUBZone program and also requested that the SBA examine 
irregularities in the award of contracts through the 7(j) 
program.
            B. Lending programs
    The Committee has conducted several hearings and briefings 
on the SBA's lending programs. The Committee held three 
hearings that focused exclusively on the SBA's 7(a), Certified 
Development Company, and Microloan programs, culminating in the 
introduction of two pieces of legislation, H.R. 1332 and H.R. 
3020, which were ultimately reported out of Committee and 
passed by the House. On March 1, 2007, the Committee on Small 
Business held an oversight hearing entitled, ``Increasing 
Access to Capital for Our Nation's Small Businesses.'' That 
hearing examined the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in 
securing affordable financing through the 7(a) and 504 loan 
programs. On March 8, 2007, the full Committee held a hearing 
entitled, ``Disaster Relief and Access to Capital 
Legislation.'' In that hearing, the Committee reviewed 
legislation affecting the SBA's Access to Capital programs. 
Specifically, this hearing focused on the H.R. 1332, the Small 
Business Lending Improvements Act, legislation to improve and 
expand the SBA's 7(a) and Certified Development Company loan 
programs.
    In passing H.R. 1332, the Committee satisfied several of 
its objectives concerning the SBA's Access to Capital programs. 
H.R. 1332 featured an initiative that will reduce the borrower 
and lender fees associated with the 7(a) loan program. 
Additionally, the bill contained provisions that would expand 
the reach of the 7(a) and 504 loan programs, particularly in 
rural areas and for socially and economically disadvantaged 
areas. Finally, H.R. 1332 will make an array of technical 
changes to the 504 loan program and enhances the ties between 
504 lenders and the communities that they serve by requiring 
lenders to include locals on the board of directors.
    On March 5, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held 
a hearing regarding the SBA's access to capital programs. This 
included testimony from Eric Zarnikow, the Associate 
Administrator for Capital Access at SBA, the National 
Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders, the National 
Association of Development Companies, the National Association 
of Small Business Investment Companies, and the Association of 
Enterprise Opportunity. The Subcommittee heard about the 
challenges SBA program participants face in making capital more 
available for small firms.
            C. Investment programs
    The Committee conducted two hearings on the SBA's 
investment programs, culminating in the introduction and 
passage of H.R. 3567, the Small Business Investment Expansion 
Act of 2007. On June 21, 2007, the Committee on Small Business 
held an oversight hearing entitled, ``Increasing Investment in 
Our Nation's Small Businesses.'' That hearing examined the 
challenges that small businesses face in seeking capital 
investment in the private markets. Of particular interest was 
witness testimony on the role of equitable investment for early 
stage and newly formed firms.
    On September 6, 2007, the full committee held a hearing 
entitled, ``A Hearing to Consider Legislation Updating and 
Improving the SBA's Investment and Surety Bond Programs.'' 
Specifically, that hearing examined draft legislation that 
would improve and expand the SBA's investment programs, 
including the Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) program 
and the New Markets Venture Capital (NMVC) program as well as 
the Surety Bond program.
    In passing H.R. 3567, the Committee satisfied several of 
its objectives concerning the SBA's Investment programs. 
Perhaps most notably, H.R. 3567 established an Angel Investment 
Program under the purview of the SBA. The bill also modernized 
and streamlined three programs in the Small Business Investment 
Act of 1958, the SBIC, NMVC and Surety Bond programs. Finally, 
the bill will revise SBA rules that inhibited the free flow of 
venture capital investment to small businesses.
            D. Disaster programs
    The Committee has conducted several hearings and briefings 
on the SBA's disaster program. These activities were largely 
driven by the problems encountered in the SBA's response to the 
2005 Gulf Coast hurricanes. The Committee held three hearings 
that focused on the SBA's disaster lending program and 
culminated its work on the SBA Disaster Program with passage of 
H.R. 1361, the RECOVER Act.
    On February 14, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``The Small Business Administration's Response to the 2005 Gulf 
Coast Hurricanes.'' That hearing explored deficiencies in the 
Small Business Administration's response to the 2005 Gulf Coast 
Hurricanes and the concurrent Government Accountability Office 
report that examined the root causes of those problems. William 
Shear, the Director of Financial Markets and Community 
Investment at the Government Accountability Office, who 
presented the results of a concurrently released GAO report 
entitled ``Response to the Gulf Coast Hurricanes Highlights 
Need for Enhanced Disaster Preparedness,'' which recommended 
that SBA take several steps to improve its disaster 
preparedness.
    On March 8, 2007, the full Committee held a hearing 
entitled, ``Disaster Relief and Access to Capital 
Legislation.'' The purpose of the hearing was to review 
legislation affecting the SBA's Disaster and Access to Capital 
programs. Specifically, this hearing focused on the H.R. 1361, 
the Relief for Entrepreneurs: Coordination of Objectives and 
Values for Effective Recovery Act of 2007 (RECOVER), 
legislation that would reform and improve the SBA's Disaster 
Assistance program. The Committee received testimony from the 
Associate Administrator for Disaster Relief. Additionally, the 
Committee received testimony from James Lee Witt, former 
director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
    On August 23, 2007, the Subcommittee on Investigations and 
Oversight held a field hearing in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, 
entitled ``The SBA's Response to the July 5 Floods in Beaver 
County, Pennsylvania.'' That hearing focused on the SBA's 
response to flooding that occurred in Beaver County 
Pennsylvania on July 5, 2007.
    In passing the RECOVER Act, the Committee successfully 
addressed numerous problems that were identified following 
deficiencies in the SBA's response to the 2005 Gulf Coast 
Hurricanes. Most notably, the bill will require the SBA to 
perform comprehensive, risk-based, disaster planning on an 
annual basis and that the agency has mechanisms in place to 
maintain its disaster readiness over the long term. The act 
also establishes several new disaster assistance tools to 
improve the disaster planning process, including the 
reorganization of the agency's Office of Disaster Assistance, a 
requirement that the agency engage in an annual disaster 
simulation exercise, and requirements that the agency formalize 
plans to address the need for additional space and employees in 
the event of a major disaster.
    The RECOVER act also enhances the SBA's disaster loan 
program by improving the manner in which disaster loans are 
processed, approved, and disbursed, and by providing the agency 
with additional financial assistance tools that are intended to 
better fit the various needs of small businesses following a 
disaster. H.R. 1361 established an Enhanced Lending Authority 
for Preferred Lenders Program that will enable the SBA to 
enlist the resources of private lenders to process, approve, 
disburse, and service loans during incidents of national 
significance. Finally, the bill creates a small grant program 
to assist small businesses damaged by Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, 
and Wilma with their continued recovery.
    Finally, in response to the severe flooding that occurred 
in the Midwest during 2008, the Committee requested that 
resources be expedited to the area and maximum flexibility be 
given to affected parties. The Committee requested and received 
daily updates regarding the disaster loan program.
            E. Entrepreneurial development programs
    The Committee continued to monitor and update SBA 
Entrepreneurial Development Programs to ensure the agency meets 
the current needs of small businesses. Programmatic and 
resource evaluations were executed in particular of the 
agency's Small Business Development Centers and Women's 
Business Center Programs.
    To evaluate the entrepreneurial development programs' 
service level and resource gaps, the Committee held a hearing 
on February 8, 2007 entitled ``SBA FY 2008 Budget Request.'' 
SBA Administrators testified on the status of current ED 
programs, reported on improvements to agency resources, 
including increased efficiencies and performance. 
Representatives of outreach programs, including the SBDCs and 
WBCs as well as a Native American business owner testified 
regarding the need for adequate and guaranteed funding for 
their centers.
    The Committee analyzed potential modifications to the 
agency's entrepreneurial programs in a hearing on May 16, 2007. 
Representatives of program service providers and agency 
administrators reviewed proposed legislation to reauthorize the 
Entrepreneurial Development Programs. On June 18, 2007, the 
House of Representatives voted 405-18 in favor of H.R. 2359, 
the ``SBA Entrepreneurial Development Programs Act of 2007,'' a 
bill sponsored by Vice Chair of the Small Business Committee, 
Representative Sestak, to enhance the agency's business 
development programs. The Committee held a hearing regarding 
resource gaps for the agency's programs on September 27, 2007. 
Administration officials and program service providers 
presented funding level requests in order to maintain and 
upgrade capacity levels.
    The Committee also explored the role of the SBA's 
Entrepreneurial Development programs through H.R. 4253, the 
Military Reservist and Veteran Small Business Reauthorization 
and Opportunity Act of 2007. This bill incorporated several of 
the initiatives contained in H.R. 2366, SBA Veterans' Programs 
Act of 2007. Most notably, H.R. 4253 increased funding for the 
SBA's Office of Veterans' Business Development and requires the 
SBA to increase the number of Veterans Business Outreach 
Centers throughout the U.S. The bill also establishes an 
interagency task force consisting of senior level 
representatives from the SBA as well as from several other 
Federal agencies and representatives from veteran service 
organizations to coordinate the efforts of Federal agencies to 
improve and expand access to veterans services and programs. 
The bill also establishes a National Reservist Enterprise 
Transition and Sustainability program through which the SBA 
will provide competitive grant awards to Small Business 
Development Centers, Women's Business Centers, Veterans 
Business Outreach Centers, and any other veterans business 
assistance program so that they may provide veteran-owned 
businesses with management, financing, procurement, technical, 
and regulatory assistance.
    On March 12, 2008, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban 
Entrepreneurship held a hearing entitled ``Oversight of the 
Entrepreneurial Development Programs Implemented by the Small 
Business Administration and National Veterans Business 
Development Corporation. Oversight was conducted for the SBA's 
entrepreneurial development portfolio and to evaluate the 
effectiveness of the National Veterans Business Development 
Corporation's efforts to serve the needs of veteran small 
business owners. The purpose of the hearing was to consider the 
management approach and distribution of federal resources to 
implement these programs, particularly given the recent release 
of the administration's FY 2009 budget in combination with 
weakening economic conditions.
            F. Government contracting and business development programs
    The Committee conducted regular oversight through hearings 
on SBA's contracting programs, which reviewed the challenges 
that small firms face in making use of these initiatives. The 
Committee also held hearings on the SBA's implementation of the 
Women's Procurement Program. The Committee and the House passed 
legislation making changes to the SBA's 8(a), Service-Disabled 
Veterans, HUBZone, and other contracting programs. The 
Committee requested a GAO examination of the HUBZone program 
and a hearing was held on July 17, 2008 on the GAO's findings. 
In addition, the Committee requested that the SBA investigate 
improprieties in the award of contracts under the 7(j) program.
    On September 19, 2007 the Committee conducted a hearing on 
the effectiveness of the SBA's contracting programs and the 
challenges they face. This was followed by an April 16, 2008 
hearing in the Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology. The 
Subcommittee considered the management and effectiveness of the 
8(a), service-disabled veterans, and HUBZone programs, as well 
as the agency's proposal to implement the women's procurement 
program.
    On March 21, 2007 the Subcommittee on Contracting and 
Technology held a hearing on the implementation of the Women's 
Procurement Program and federal government efforts in 
contracting with women-owned businesses. On January 16, 2008 
the Committee held a hearing to examine the SBA's 
implementation of the Women's Procurement Program. The SBA had 
issued a proposed regulation to administer the program and the 
Committee heard testimony on its adequacy and appropriateness 
given Congressional intent in creating the program. The first 
panel was comprised of the Administrator of the SBA and an 
official from the Department of Justice. The second panel was 
comprised of women-owned small businesses, a legal scholar, and 
a law practitioner.
            G. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small 
                    Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs
    The Committee on Small Business undertook a comprehensive 
reauthorization effort of the SBIR and STTR programs during the 
110th Congress. This included oversight and legislative 
hearings, meetings with key stakeholders, and consideration of 
reauthorization legislation in both the Committee and on the 
House floor.
    The Committee held three hearings on the reauthorization of 
the SBIR program. On January 29, 2008, the Committee held a 
hearing entitled ``SBIR: America's Technology Development 
Incubator.'' The hearing explored the numerous contributions 
that the SBIR program makes to national security priorities, 
economic development objectives and America's international 
economic competitiveness. On February 13, 2008 the House 
Committee on Small Business, Subcommittee on Investigations and 
Oversight convened a hearing entitled ``SBIR: Advancing Medical 
Innovations.'' The Subcommittee hearing examined the impact of 
the SBIR program on the development of innovative medical 
technologies, therapies and products. On March 13, 2008 the 
Committee on Small Business held a hearing to review a 
Committee Print of proposed legislation (H.R. 5819) that would 
reauthorize and modernize the SBIR program.
    H.R. 5819, the SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act extends for a 
period of two years both SBIR and STTR. The legislation 
modernizes the SBIR program, changing the legislative 
guidelines and policies in order to update the program in 
response to the unique challenges facing small research 
companies. The Committee and House passed the legislation 
during the 110th Congress.
            H. Office of Advocacy
    The Committee conducted oversight of the Office of Advocacy 
through the annual budget process, as well as through hearings 
on Advocacy's effort to reduce regulatory burden on small 
firms. On December 6, 2007, the Committee held a hearing on 
legislation to improve the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The 
Chief Counsel for Advocacy at the Small Business 
Administration, Thomas M. Sullivan delivered testimony. On July 
30, 2008, the Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and 
Trade held a hearing entitled ``Regulatory Burdens on Small 
Firms: What Rules Need Reforms?'' The Subcommittee heard 
testimony from, among other witnesses, the Chief Counsel for 
Advocacy, Small Business Administration, Thomas M. Sullivan. 
The hearing examined the Office of Advocacy's r3 regulatory 
reform initiative.
            I. Veterans Corporation
    The Committee continued to monitor the performance of the 
National Veterans Business Development Corporation (NVBDC) and 
the entity's ability to meet the needs of the current veteran 
population. The committee held meetings with NVBDC officials 
and Veteran Service Organization representatives to identify 
gaps in services by the organization as well as recommendations 
to improve its performance.
    To evaluate the NVBDC's performance, the Committee held a 
hearing on May 2, 2007. Agency officials and veterans service 
organizations presented analysis on the NVBDC and proposals to 
comprehensively modernize the Federal government's veteran 
entrepreneurship resources.
    The Committee also examined the role of the Veterans 
Corporation through H.R. 4253, the Military Reservist and 
Veteran Small Business Reauthorization and Opportunity Act of 
2007. This bill incorporated several of the initiatives 
contained in H.R. 2366, SBA Veterans' Programs Act of 2007. 
Most notably, H.R. 4253 contained a provision that removed the 
SBA Advisory Committee on Veterans Business Affairs from the 
purview of the Veterans Corporation and permanently extended 
the operational authority of the SBA Advisory Committee on 
Veterans Business Affairs.
II. Agriculture
            A. Federal agriculture policy
    The Committee conducted regular oversight of agricultural 
issues that affect small businesses and family farmers. On 
November 14, 2007, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban 
Entrepreneurship held a hearing entitled ``Program 
Harmonization in Rural America--How the Small Business 
Administration (SBA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 
Can Work Together to Better Serve Small Businesses''. The 
Subcommittee considered and examined how the SBA and USDA 
programs have worked, and gain a better understanding of how 
the two agencies can work better together in the future through 
potential program harmonization and improved communications.
    On June 7, 2007, the Committee held a hearing on small 
business priorities in the 2007 Farm Bill. The Committee 
examined policies that assist small farmers and businesses with 
successfully competing in the domestic and global agricultural 
markets. On May 1, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on the 
impact of rail transportation access on family farmers. The 
Committee held a hearing on April 17, 2008, entitled 
``Maintaining Public Lands for Hunting, Fishing, Ranching and 
Small Businesses.'' The Committee examined how the Department 
of the Interior is meeting the needs of ranchers dependent on 
the use of public lands for grazing.
            B. Financial assistance
    The Committee examined the role that the SBA's financial 
assistance programs play in providing federal resources to spur 
private enterprises in rural areas. At hearings held on March 
1, 2007 and March 8, 2007, the Committee received testimony 
from community banks and credit unions that stressed the need 
to increase rural lender participation in the SBA's 7(a) and 
504 loan programs so that they may provide access to these 
programs for entrepreneurs in rural areas. To address these 
concerns, the Committee established a Rural Lending Outreach 
program under the framework of the 7(a) loan program in H.R. 
1332. Additionally, the Committee directed the SBA to make 
improved nationwide distribution of investment program 
resources a priority of its New Markets Venture Capital program 
in H.R. 3567.
            C. Biofuels
    The Committee held several hearing on biofuels during the 
110th Congress. On May 3, 2007, the Committee held a hearing 
entitled ``The Impact of Renewable Energy Production in Rural 
America''. This hearing focused on the consumption and 
production of renewable fuels. On June 18, 2008, the 
Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship held a hearing 
on second generation biofuels. On June 20, 2007, the 
Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology convened a hearing 
on the workforce demands on small bio-energy businesses. The 
subcommittee explored the potential for sustaining the 
renewable fuels sector for small businesses in rural America.
    The Committee considered initiatives in H.R. 2389, the 
Small Energy Efficient Businesses Act (SEEBA) that ultimately 
passed the House in H.R. 3221 that were aimed at increasing 
small business development and use of biofuels. H.R. 2389 
adapts the SBA's investment programs to achieve increased 
investment in small businesses involved in the research, 
development, production, or marketing of energy efficient 
goods, products, or services, including biofuels, by permitting 
licensed debenture SBICs to issue special Energy Saving (ES) 
Debentures that provide substantial benefits over existing 
debentures.
    In addition to hearings, the Committee conducted oversight 
of biofuels issues through the legislative process. H.R. 2389 
also creates a new program within the Small Business Investment 
Act of 1958 called the ``Renewable Fuel Capital Investment 
Company'' (RFCIC) program. This program will authorize the 
creation of new Renewable Fuel Capital Investment Companies 
(RFCICs) that issue SBA guaranteed debentures to invest in 
small businesses engaged in researching, manufacturing, 
developing, and bringing to market renewable energy sources, 
with specific emphasis on investing in businesses that produce 
biofuels.
            D. Value added products
    Through hearings on agricultural matters, the Committee 
considered challenges that family farmers face in developing 
value-added products. On June 18, 2008, the Subcommittee on 
Rural and Entrepreneurship held a hearing on second generation 
biofuels, which considered the possibility of using biomass, 
such as corn stover, husks, and cobs, to produce biofuels. On 
May 15, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on rising food 
prices and their impact on small businesses, which included 
considerable examination of cellulosic ethanol from non-food 
sources. Finally, on July 10, 2008, the Committee held a 
hearing on the role of green technologies in spurring economic 
growth. This hearing reviewed farms' role in generating 
electricity through alternative sources for their own 
utilization or to sell it back to the grid. This is a major 
opportunity for them to increase their investments and 
diversify their on- and off-farm financial risks.
             E. Rural economic development
    On June 7, 2007, the Committee held a hearing regarding 
family farms and rural small businesses. The committee examined 
policies that assist small farmers and businesses with 
successfully competing in the domestic and global agricultural 
markets. On May 9, 2007, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban 
Entrepreneurship convened a hearing entitled ``Maximizing the 
Value of Broadband in Rural Communities.'' The hearing examined 
the role broadband services can play in revitalizing rural 
economies.

III. Energy

            A. Energy prices
    The Committee conducted regular oversight of the impact of 
energy prices on small businesses. On August 31, 2007, the 
Committee held a field hearing in Johnson City, Tennessee on 
the cost and availability of energy and the effect on small 
businesses. The Committee discussed the importance of energy to 
small businesses as energy consumers, and talk about how 
increasing costs are cutting into profit margins. On April 9, 
2008, the Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight held a 
hearing on the impact of increasing gas prices on small 
businesses. On May 15, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on 
rising food prices and their impact on small businesses. The 
hearing considered the role that energy prices are contributing 
to food price inflation. The Committee conducted a hearing on 
June 26, 2008, entitled ``Grounded: How the Air Transportation 
Crisis Is Hurting Entrepreneurs and the Economy.'' Witnesses 
discussed the effect of increasing energy prices on airlines 
and small firms in the travel and tourism industry.
            B. Relief measures
    On October 10, 2007, the Committee convened a hearing on 
small business energy policy, including an examination of 
policies that assist small businesses to successfully compete 
in the domestic and global marketplace. The Committee also 
included in H.R. 2389, the Small Energy Efficient Businesses 
Act (SEEBA) that ultimately passed the House in H.R. 3221 that 
were aimed at increasing small business energy efficiency 
through both conservation practices for small businesses and 
through the adaptation of existing SBA programs to fund energy 
efficient equipment and practices. H.R. 2389, the Small Energy 
Efficient Business Act (SEEBA) provides information, technical 
assistance, and access to capital to help small businesses 
implement, develop, and market energy efficient goods, 
products, and services. The bill also establishes a new lending 
program that would provide 7(a) loans that cost half the 
upfront guaranty and ongoing annual lender fees of regular 7(a) 
loans and a 90 percent guarantee if the proceeds of the loan 
are used to purchase or develop energy efficient technologies 
or reduce the borrower's energy consumption by 10 percent or 
more.
            C. Energy efficiency
    On July 11, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled: 
``Small Businesses at the Forefront of the Green Revolution: 
What More Needs To Be Done To Keep Them Here?'' The hearing 
examined how small firms are playing a vital role in developing 
materials, and building ``green'' facilities in an ever 
changing global setting. On July 10, 2008, the Committee held a 
hearing on the role of green technologies in spurring economic 
growth. The hearing reviewed the role that small businesses 
play in producing green products and providing green services.

IV. Financial services

    The Committee examined the most recent figures related to 
small business financing and held a hearing on November 7, 2007 
to explore the results of the Federal Reserve's most recent 
survey of small business finances. The hearing coincided with 
the release of the 2007 Report to Congress on the Availability 
of Credit to Small Businesses. On April 30, 2008, the 
Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held a hearing to examine the 
effect that prevailing economic conditions have had on small 
business access to capital. In particular, the Committee 
examined how small firms have been affected by a contraction in 
the national credit supply and explored how these conditions 
impacted national employment, gross domestic product, and 
trade. On April 3, 2008, the Committee held a hearing to 
explore the role that credit cards play in providing small 
businesses with access to capital. Specifically, the Committee 
explored trends surrounding recent growth in credit card 
lending to small businesses and examined the specific 
advantages and disadvantages that credit cards provide to 
entrepreneurs.
    The Committee explored the role of small lenders in small 
business access to capital at its March 1, 2007 and March 8, 
2007 hearings. At those hearings, the Committee received 
testimony from the Credit Union National Association and from 
the Independent Community Bankers of America on the role that 
small lenders play in making capital available to small 
businesses. Additionally, the Committee examined the trend of 
continued consolidation in the financial services industry 
during its November 7, 2007 hearing on the State of the Small 
Business Economy as the Federal Reserve released data on the 
continued trend of small business lending through small 
financial institutions.
    The Committee examined the process and challenges facing 
small businesses in capital formation through its June 21, 2007 
and September 6, 2007 hearings on increasing investment to 
small businesses. These hearings focused on a variety of 
investment strategies, including patient venture capital, angel 
investment, and SBA investment programs.

V. Health Care

            A. Access to affordable health coverage and state market 
                    reforms
    The Committee convened several hearings on access to 
affordable health coverage and state market reforms. On October 
25, 2007, the Committee held a hearing entitled ``Health 
Insurer Consolidation--The Impact on Small Business.'' The 
hearing examined the effects of consolidation on the cost of 
health insurance and the impact on physicians and other health 
care providers in terms of reimbursements and administrative 
burdens. On February 26, 2008, the Committee held a hearing 
entitled ``State Strategies To Expand Health Insurance Coverage 
for Small Businesses''--Featuring Testimony on Health Care 
Reform in Minnesota and Pennsylvania from Governors Pawlenty 
(R-MN) and Rendell (D-PA). The hearing examined the question of 
state health reform and how it may impact the small business 
community. The principal focus of the hearing was to assess 
whether state reform efforts will prove successful, and how the 
federal government can best assist states in their efforts to 
promote coverage.
            B. Expanding available options for small employers to 
                    purchase health insurance
    During the 110th Congress, the Committee reviewed policy 
options to expand health care coverage for small employers. On 
January 23, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Limited Options for Small Businesses in the Small Group 
Market.'' The hearing examined the challenges small businesses 
face providing health insurance coverage to their workers.
    On May 24, 2007, the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing entitled ``Expanding Small Business Health Insurance 
Coverage Using the Private Reinsurance Market.'' The hearing 
focused on how reinsurance has been used by businesses to 
manage their risk of financial loss. Witnesses testified on 
alternative reinsurance arrangements that have been used by 
employers to control high risk and catastrophic health care 
costs associated with medical benefit plans. Testimony was also 
provided describing the current landscape of the reinsurance 
market and barriers to the adoption of reinsurance by small 
business in the health care arena.
    On August 30, 2007, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban 
Entrepreneurship held a field hearing entitled ``How Can Small 
Businesses Best Address the Healthcare Needs of Their 
Employees?'' The hearing focused on barriers to offering 
insurance coverage faced by small business owners, factors 
which influence the decision of small businesses to offer 
coverage, and possible solutions to bringing down costs and 
increase coverage. Witnesses included small business owners 
from the Asheville, North Carolina community. Testimony 
addressed small business concerns about the structure of the 
small group health insurance market and the tax treatment of 
small firms.
            C. Tax credits
    In its effort to examine health care issues, the Committee 
held hearings that considered changes in tax policy to 
encourage greater coverage of small employers. Among them was 
the March 14, 2007 hearing entitled ``Challenges and Solutions 
to Health Insurance Coverage for Small Businesses.'' The 
hearing focused on barriers to coverage for small businesses 
ranging from their tax treatment under the Code to the 
structure of the health insurance market.
            D. Health IT adoption
    The Committee held two hearings that focused on Health IT 
issues. On March 28, 2007, the Subcommittee on Regulations, 
Health Care and Trade held a hearing ``The Value of Health IT 
to Solo and Small Medical Practices.'' The hearing focused on 
the importance of health IT to smaller health care practices, 
barriers to implementation, and what Congress can do to 
increase health IT adoption by solo and small group 
practitioners. On Thursday, July 31, 2008, the Committee on 
Small Business held a hearing entitled: ``Cost and 
Confidentiality: The Unforeseen Challenges of Electronic Health 
Records in Small Specialty Practices.'' In spite of findings 
about the many benefits of HIT, its dissemination has been 
slow, due in part to the high costs of Electronic Health 
Records (EHR) systems for smaller health care practices. Small 
health care practices have been reluctant to install systems 
because of concerns over the upfront capital investment, 
ongoing maintenance and short-term productivity loss.
    The Committee also addressed this issue during a hearing 
held on September 25, 2008, entitled ``Small Business 
Competition Policy: Are Markets Open for Entrepreneurs?'' The 
hearing examined how the FTC/DOJ Statements of Antitrust 
Enforcement Policy in Health Care have failed to keep up with 
changes in the health care marketplace and created barriers to 
the adoption of Health IT among providers.
            E. Health care cost and quality
    The Committee reviewed the cost and quality of health care 
through several hearings on agency procurement practices. On 
July 25, 2007, Committee on Small Business held a hearing 
entitled ``Competitive Bidding for Clinical Lab Services: 
Where's It Heading and What Small Businesses Can Expect?'' The 
hearing examined a competitive biding demonstration program 
developed by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services to 
reimburse clinical lab providers for Medicare services. In 
addition, on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, the Subcommittee on Rural 
and Urban Entrepreneurship held a hearing entitled 
``Competitive Bidding for Durable Medical Equipment.'' Small 
durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies 
(DMEPOS) suppliers have experienced difficulty with the 
competitive bidding program. Many claim the bidding program is 
fraught with procedural flaws and operational problems that 
call into question the fairness of the overall process. Given 
these concerns, the hearing focused on the bidding program's 
structure, operational problems, and the financial impact it 
could have on DMEPOS suppliers and manufacturers.
            F. Health care provider compensation and regulatory 
                    structure
    The Committee held a series of hearings on health care 
provider compensation issues. On August 1, 2007, the 
Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade held a 
hearing entitled ``Ensuring Prompt Payment for Small Health 
Care Providers.'' The hearing focused on prompt payment of 
insurance claims by insurers to health care providers and how 
claim delays impact the operation of small health care 
practices. Testimony included an examination of state prompt 
payment laws as well as federal requirements under ERISA and 
government health care programs such as Medicare.
    On November 8th, 2007, the Subcommittee on Regulations, 
Health Care and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Medicare's 
Reimbursement Cuts: The Potential Impact on Solo and Small 
Group Practitioners and the Businesses They Run.'' The hearing 
focused on the challenges faced by solo and small group 
practitioners; and how Medicare reimbursement cuts have 
impacted their practices. A primary focus of the hearing 
involved the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) that is used to 
determine the payment rates for physician reimbursements. On 
Thursday, May 8, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Medicare Physician Fee Cuts: Can Small Practices Survive.'' 
The hearing examined the business challenges faced by small 
medical practices and the impact Medicare physician fee cuts 
would have on the operation of health care practices.
    In addition to hearings, the Committee also included a 
provision in H.R. 1332, the Small Business Lending Improvements 
Act, to provide health professionals with a source of 
affordable capital when located in Health Professional Shortage 
Areas (HPSAs). This provision would establish a program to 
reduce borrower and lender fees by half and increase the 
guaranty to 90 percent for loans made to doctors and dentists 
located in Federally designated Health Professional Shortage 
Areas (HPSAs). The Committee believes that this program, in 
combination with existing federal assistance programs, will 
help mitigate the risk associated with opening a new practice 
and encourage more health professionals to establish their 
small businesses in HPSAs.

VI. Immigration

    The Committee held a hearing on May 10, 2007 on immigration 
policies and their impact on small firms. The committee heard 
testimony from small businesses regarding the role that 
immigration plays in their industry as well as their associated 
concerns about labor shortages, federal verification 
requirements, and the current visa system.

VII. International trade

            A. International trade agreements
    The Committee continued to evaluate the effectiveness of 
policies and resources that promote the competitiveness of 
small businesses as the economy becomes integrated with foreign 
countries through trade liberalization efforts. To evaluate the 
impact upon small businesses from U.S. commitments to open 
markets with partner countries, the Committee held a hearing on 
November 1, 2007. The hearing examined the likely result of 
agreements signed by the Administration and pending 
ratification by Congress with countries in Latin America and 
Asia. It also considered additional federal resources necessary 
for entrepreneurs to access newly opened markets and protect 
against unfair trade practices in the globalized economy.
    To ensure small businesses have adequate tools to benefit 
from the opening of countries' borders, the Committee analyzed 
the SBA's international trade programs on February 8, 2007. The 
purpose of the hearing was to determine the agency's current 
level of service based on revenues and future demands for 
assistance to small U.S. businesses, including those engaged in 
exporting and in industries facing significant foreign 
competition.
            B. Trade enforcement
    The Committee continued to conduct extensive oversight of 
Federal and foreign enforcement of international trade rules 
and standards. Discussions were held with business groups and 
entrepreneurs to highlight the impacts from unfair trade 
practices. The Committee also monitored resources available for 
small businesses to ensure their continued viability as markets 
are opened to foreign competition.
    To evaluate the impacts from the liberalization of trade 
rules, the Committee held a hearing on June 13, 2007 which 
highlighted small businesses' need for tools to protect against 
unfair trade practices. Business groups, particularly 
manufacturing representatives, presented the case for enhanced 
access to trade remedy and dispute assistance at the federal 
level.
            C. Export assistance
    On June 19, 2008, the Committee on Small Business held a 
hearing entitled ``Small Business Exports in the Current 
Economic Climate.'' The purpose of the hearing was to examine 
trends in small businesses export activities during the 
country's economic downturn and consider policies to assist 
small U.S. exporters.

VIII. Pensions and retirement

    On October 24, 2007, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax 
held a hearing regarding the barriers small businesses face in 
offering pension benefits to their employees as compared to 
larger entities. The hearing revealed that many small firms 
cannot afford to provide retirement benefits or lack the in-
house expertise necessary to comply with Employee Retirement 
Income Security Act (ERISA) guidelines.

IX. Procurement

    The Committee has conducted oversight of federal 
procurement policy through both hearings and the legislative 
process. On March 6, 2008, the Committee held a hearing 
entitled ``Are New Procurement Methods Beneficial to Small 
Business Contractors?'' The Committee examined the impact of 
the decreasing acquisition workforce and the new, automated 
methods that agencies are turning to, including schedule 
contracting and reverse auctions.
    The Committee also conducted an extensive review of small 
business participation in Hurricane Katrina contracts. On April 
12, 2007, the Committee held a field hearing in New Orleans, 
Louisiana, entitled ``Participation of Small Businesses in 
Hurricane Katrina Recovery.'' The hearing focused on the 
contracting records of the most relevant government agencies. A 
follow-up hearing was held on August 2, 2008 to revisit these 
issues. Following this hearing, the Committee continued to 
review the agencies' performance.
    The Committee considered several procurement matters 
through the legislative process, including contract bundling 
and raising the federal small business contracting goal. H.R. 
1873, the Small Business Fairness in Contracting Act, expanded 
the definition of contract bundling, primarily closing a 
loophole that excluded construction and other new work from 
bundling analyses. The legislation also raised the federal 
small business contracting goal from 23 percent to 30 percent 
and required overseas contracts to be counted when calculating 
this figure.

X. Regulations

    The Committee held hearings and intervened on several 
regulations that place small businesses at a competitive 
disadvantage. On November 15, 2007, the Committee held a 
hearing entitled ``Reducing the Regulatory Burden on Small 
Business.'' The Committee heard testimony from small business 
representatives of the transportation, health care and other 
industries as well as from an administrative law expert. 
Witnesses discussed the federal regulatory burden on small 
businesses and how Congress can act to reduce it. Witnesses 
delivered testimony regarding the regulatory burdens imposed by 
the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the National 
Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Department of 
Homeland Security and the Federal Aviation Administration. The 
Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade held a 
hearing on July 30, 2008, entitled ``Regulatory Burdens on 
Small Firms: What Rules Need Reforms?'' The hearing examined 
the adequacy of agency compliance with Section 610 of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    Hearings were also held on individual regulations and their 
impact on small firms. This included a hearing on July 18, 
2007, entitled ``Medicaid Drug Reimbursements: Are Cuts Bad 
Medicine for Small Businesses and Beneficiaries?'' The 
Committee met to discuss the final rule promulgated by the 
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services which sets the 
average manufacturer price as the basis for certain 
prescription drug reimbursements to pharmacies. The hearing 
examined the impacts of the rule on small business retail 
pharmacies and Medicaid beneficiaries and whether the agency 
adequately complied with the Regulatory Flexibility Act in 
promulgating the rule.
    The Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade held 
a hearing on May 14, 2008, entitled ``The Impact of CMS 
Regulations and Programs on Small Health Care Providers.'' The 
Subcommittee examined how CMS regulations and programs are 
affecting small firms. Witnesses discussed the Recovery Audit 
Contractor program and provider compensation issues. On May 22, 
2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled ``RESPA and Its 
Impact on Small Business.'' The Committee examined the proposed 
rule issued by the Department of Housing and Urban Development 
pursuant to the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act and its 
potential burdens on small businesses in the real estate 
industry.
    The Committee held two hearings about the impact of 
Sarbanes-Oxley regulations on small firms. On June 5, 2007, the 
Committee convened a hearing entitled ``Sarbanes-Oxley Section 
404: Will the SEC and PCAOB's New Standards Lower Compliance 
Costs for Small Companies?'' The hearing examined the new 
regulations issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission 
(SEC) and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) 
in light of the committee's ongoing concern that Section 404 of 
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (SOX 404) places an undue 
regulatory burden on small firms. On December 12, 2007, the 
House Committee on Small Business convened a hearing entitled 
``Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404: New Evidence on the Costs for 
Small Businesses''. The hearing examined recently released data 
on SOX 404 compliance costs being incurred by small companies 
and assessed the appropriateness of the SEC's compliance 
timeline for small businesses.
    The Committee also considered whether regulations were in 
plain English. The Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology 
held a hearing on February 26, 2008, entitled ``Plain Language 
in Paperwork--The Benefits to Small Business.'' The 
Subcommittee examined how the use of plain language by the 
federal government can reduce the paperwork burden on small 
businesses.
    The Committee held a hearing regarding the recordkeeping 
and reporting requirements on small firms. On February 28, 2008 
the Committee convened a hearing entitled ``Improving the 
Paperwork Reduction Act for Small Businesses.'' The Committee 
examined whether the Paperwork Reduction Act is serving to 
minimize recordkeeping and reporting requirements on small 
businesses. The Committee discussed ways to improve the 
Paperwork Reduction Act to make it more effective in reducing 
paperwork burdens on small firms.
    The Committee, in its role as a monitor, held a series of 
staff meetings with Federal agencies to discuss their 
obligations to small firms pursuant to the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act. The Committee examined the agencies' 
regulatory agendas, focusing on rules with disparate impacts on 
small businesses. Further, to ensure that agencies were 
considering small businesses in their rulemakings, the 
Committee issued several letters. On August 20, 2007, the 
Chairwoman submitted comments to Secretary of Agriculture 
Michael Johanns regarding mandatory country of origin labeling 
and minimizing recordkeeping burdens for small businesses. On 
February 23, 2007, the Chairwoman submitted comments to the 
Acting Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid 
Services, Leslie Norwalk, on the agency's lack of compliance 
with the Regulatory Flexibility Act on the proposed rule 
implementing the provisions of the Deficit Reduction Act of 
2005 pertaining to prescription drugs under the Medicaid 
program (71 Fed. Reg. 77174).
    On September 25, 2007, the Chairwoman sent a letter to 
Secretary of Homeland Security Chertoff on the agency's lack of 
compliance with RegFlex in promulgating the ``No-Match'' letter 
rule (72 Fed. Reg. 45611). On May 9, 2007, the Chairwoman sent 
a letter to Dennis Deziel of the Chemical Security Task Force 
at the Department of Homeland Security to request an extension 
of the time period for public comment on Appendix A to part 27 
(Appendix A) of the interim final rule on chemical facilities 
(72 Fed. Reg. 17689). On August 3, 2007, the Chairwoman sent a 
letter to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection 
Agency, Stephen Johnson, expressing the concerns of small 
businesses regarding a lack of consideration of their views in 
the rulemaking process on the proposed rule regarding control 
of emissions of nonroad spark-ignition engines (72 Fed. Reg. 
28098). On May 1, 2008, the Chairwoman sent a letter to the 
Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration, 
Edmund S. Hawley, regarding the Certified Cargo Screening 
Program pilot and the fact small firms were not eligible to 
participate.

XI. Tax

    The Committee held a wide range of hearings on tax 
simplification and relief proposals. This included a March 22, 
2007 hearing on the 3 percent government withholding 
requirement. In an effort to close the tax gap, Sec. 511 of the 
2005 TIPRA requires the government to withhold 3 percent on 
nearly all of its payments for goods or services. The hearing 
examined the impact of this provision on small businesses. On 
Wednesday, September 26, 2007 the Subcommittee on Contracting 
and Technology hearing entitled: ``Small Business Renewable 
Energy Tax Incentive Possibilities''. The Subcommittee heard 
testimony from witnesses on how to encourage increased 
renewable energy investment through changes in the Internal 
Revenue Code. On October 3, 2007, the Committee held a hearing 
on the Internet Tax Moratorium, which currently bans taxes on 
Internet access, and prevented taxes on Internet transactions 
and was set to expire on November 1, 2007.
    On February 14, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on 
Business Activity Taxes (BATs) and their impact on small 
businesses. BATs are taxes imposed by states on out of state 
businesses in the form of income taxes, royalty fees, or 
licensing fees for conducting business within a particular 
state's borders. The hearing highlighted the many problems 
small businesses face when attempting to conduct interstate 
sales. As a follow up to the hearing, the Committee sent a 
comment letter to the Judiciary Committee that detailed the 
substance of the hearing. The letter, signed by Chairwoman 
Velazquez and Ranking Member Chabot, indicated the concerns 
regarding BATs from the small business perspective while also 
stating that the Committee is willing to work with Judiciary on 
a matter of great importance to the small business community. 
On June 12, 2008, the Committee held a hearing entitled 
``Electronic Payments Tax Reporting--Another Tax Burden for 
Small Businesses.'' The hearing examined recent efforts to 
require information tax reporting on all credit card receipts 
of small businesses. Specifically, this hearing focused on the 
potential administrative and financial burdens that new 
reporting requirements could create for small businesses and 
financial institutions.
    On April 10, 2008, the Committee held a hearing on how 
certain updates could be made to the Internal Revenue Code that 
could help small businesses stimulate the economy. The 
witnesses explained to the Committee that in many respects, the 
tax code has not adequately responded to the economy that 
exists in the 21st century, and this hinders their ability to 
grow and expand their business. Along with the hearing, the 
Committee released a report, which detailed seven ways the 
Internal Revenue Code should be immediately updated. Finally, 
the Committee introduced legislation, H.R. 6601, which will 
attempt to incorporate those recommendations into law.
    On June 18, 2008, the Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held 
a hearing to discuss the business classification known as the S 
corporation and what potential changes should be made to their 
operating rules. The hearing reviewed which changes could be 
made to better help small businesses raise capital and improve 
impediments to growth. On July 24, 2008, the Committee held a 
hearing on the stimulus package enacted in February of 2008 and 
its impact on small businesses and the economy in general. The 
hearing also examined the current state of the economy, and 
whether another round of stimulus is needed, what form that 
should take, and small business' role in getting our nation 
back on track.
    During the 110th Congress, the Committee also considered 
the issues pertaining to the tax gap. On April 26, 2007, the 
Committee held a hearing that examined the difference between 
the amount of taxes paid voluntarily and timely for a given 
year and the amount of taxes due. The hearing examined how 
efforts to close the tax gap could impact small businesses.

XII. Technology and Innovation

    The Committee conducted oversight of technology policy 
issues and their impact on small firms. On March 7, 2007, the 
House Committee on Small Business convened a hearing entitled 
``Advancing the Innovation Agenda: The Perspective of the 
Technology and Telecommunications Industry.'' The hearing 
examined the technology and telecommunication industries' 
policy priorities for the 110th Congress and considered how the 
industries' policy priorities might impact small innovative 
companies. This included major technology policy issues as well 
as related workforce and education issues.
    On May 9, 2007, the Subcommittee on Rural and Urban 
Entrepreneurship convened a hearing entitled ``Maximizing the 
Value of Broadband in Rural Communities.'' The hearing examined 
the role broadband services can play in revitalizing rural 
economies. On June 25, 2008 at 10:00 the Subcommittee on 
Regulations, Health Care and Trade convened a hearing entitled 
``The Impact of Online Advertising on Small Firms.'' The 
hearing considered the benefits of on-line advertising to 
smaller firms and the increasing importance of on-line 
marketing strategies to many successful small businesses. The 
hearing also examined concerns that some small companies have 
raised about the challenge of driving traffic to their website.
    On May 7, 2008, the Subcommittee on Contracting and 
Technology convened a hearing entitled ``The DTV Transition and 
Small Businesses: Small Firms Contributing to a Big Change.'' 
The hearing reviewed the impact of the DTV transition on small 
broadcasters, small cable and video service providers and small 
electronics retailers. The Subcommittee also considered whether 
there are appropriate measures Congress should take in order to 
minimize the burden of the DTV transition on small firms, 
particularly those small firms serving rural areas. On March 
29, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business convened a 
hearing entitled ``The Impact of Proposed Patent Reform 
Legislation on Small Businesses.'' The hearing examined the 
cost and benefits of reforming the U.S. patent system and the 
potential impact on small businesses.
    On June 28, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business 
convened a hearing entitled the ``Assessing the Impact of the 
Copyright Royalty Board Decision to Increase Royalty Rates on 
Recording Artists and Webcasters.'' The hearing examined a 
recent decision by the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) that 
increased substantially the royalty rates that Internet 
broadcasters or ``webcasters'' pay to compensate copyright 
owners for digital transmissions of their sound recordings. On 
October 10, 2007, the House Committee on Small Business 
convened a hearing entitled ``The Impact of the 700 Megahertz 
Wireless Spectrum Auction on Small Business.'' The hearing 
examined the potential impact of the upcoming wireless spectrum 
auction's rules on entrepreneurs, small wireless communications 
providers and small businesses that are without access to 
reliable and affordable access to broadband services.
    The Committee also considered the role of technology in 
increasing energy efficiency. On Wednesday, July 11, 2007, at 
10:00 a.m., the Committee held a hearing entitled: ``Small 
Businesses at the Forefront of the Green Revolution: What More 
Needs to Be Done to Keep Them Here?'' The hearing examined how 
small firms are playing a vital role in developing materials, 
and building ``green'' facilities in an ever changing global 
setting. These facilities and initiatives are designed to 
improve energy efficiency and use environmentally friendly 
production processes during building construction.
    Finally, the Committee reviewed the role of financing to 
startups. This includes hearings and the consideration of 
legislation. The Committee on Small Business held a hearing on 
September 6, 2007, on H.R. 3567, which established an Angel 
Financing program for startup companies, as well as modernized 
the SBA's investment programs. In addition, the Committee held 
several hearings on the SBIR program, which is a vital source 
of funding for early stage firms. This included a hearing on 
January 29, 2008, that examined the importance of the SBIR 
program to American competitiveness as well as changes to it 
that may strengthen the initiative. On March 13, 2008, the 
Committee convened a legislative hearing to review legislation 
reauthorizing and modernizing the Small Business Innovation 
Research (SBIR) program.
                   APPENDIX I--COMMITTEE LEGISLATION

                       PART A--COMMITTEE REPORTS

    Reports filed by the Committee on Small Business with the 
House
    110-104--Report to accompany H.R. 1332, a bill to amend the 
Small Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act to 
improve the access to capital programs of the Small Business 
Administration, and for other purposes, having considered the 
same, report favorably thereon with an amendment and recommend 
that the bill as amended do pass. April 20, 2007
    110-82--A report to accompany H.R. 1361, the Relief for 
Entrepreneurs: Coordination of objective and Values for 
Effective Recovery ``Act of 2007 (The Recover Act) to amend the 
Small Business Act and improve the disaster relief programs of 
the Small Business Administration and for other purposes. March 
30, 2007
    110-111--(parts 1, 2, and 3) A report to accompany H.R. 
1873 a bill to amend the Small Business Act to reauthorize 
programs and activities of the Small Business Administration 
relating to procurement and for other purposes. April 26, 2007
    110-192--A report to accompany H.R. 2284 a bill that would 
amend the Small Business Act to expand and improve the 
assistance provided by Small Business Development Centers to 
Indian Tribal members, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians. 
June 15, 2007
    110-193--A report to Accompany H.R. 2359 a bill to amend 
the Small Business Act and reauthorize programs to assist small 
business concerns and for other purposes. June 15, 2007
    110-194--A report to accompany H.R. 2366 the SBA Veteran's 
Programs Act of 2007, a bill to reauthorize the veterans 
entrepreneurial development programs of the Small Business 
Administration and for other purposes. June 15, 2007
    110-195--A report to accompany H.R. 2397, the Small 
Business Women's Programs Act of 2007, a bill to reauthorize 
the women's entrepreneurial development programs of the Small 
Business Administration, and for other purposes. June 15, 2007
    110-312--A report to accompany H.R. 2992, the SBA Trade 
Programs Act of 2007, a bill to improve trade programs, and for 
other purposes. September 4, 2007
    110-313--A report to accompany H.R. 3020, the Microloan 
Amendments and Modernization Act, to amend the Small Business 
Act to improve the Microloan program and for other purposes. 
September 4, 2007
    110-347--A report to accompany H.R. 3567, the Small 
Business Investment Expansion Act of 2007 which amends the 
Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to expand opportunities 
for investments in small businesses, and for other purposes. 
September 25, 2007
    110-400--A report to accompany H.R. 3867, the Small 
Business Contracting Program Improvements Act, to update and 
expand the procurement programs of the Small Business 
Administration and for other purposes. October 22, 2007
    110-595 Part 1--A report to accompany H.R. 5819 the SBIR/
STTR Reauthorization Act, a bill to amend the Small Business 
Act to improve the Small Business Innovation Research program 
and the Small Business Technology Transfer program and for 
other purposes. April 18, 2008
                          PART B--PUBLIC LAWS

    This table lists measures that contained matters within the 
jurisdiction of the Committee on Small Business, which were 
enacted into law during the 110th Congress.
    1. [110th] H.R. 434: An act to provide for an additional 
temporary extension of programs under the Small Business Act 
and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 through July 31, 
2007, and for other purposes.
    Sponsor: Rep Chabot, Steve [OH-1] (introduced 1/12/2007) 
Cosponsors (1)
    Committees: House Small Business; Senate Small Business and 
Entrepreneurship
    Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 110-4
    2. [110th] H.R. 3206: To provide for an additional 
temporary extension of programs under the Small Business Act 
and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 through December 
15, 2007, and for other purposes.
    Sponsor: Rep Velazquez, Nydia M. [NY-12] (introduced 7/27/
2007) Cosponsors (1)
    Committees: House Small Business
    Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 110-57
    3. [110th] H.R. 3221: A bill to provide needed housing 
reform and for other purposes.
    Sponsor: Rep Pelosi, Nancy [CA-8] (introduced 7/30/2007) 
Cosponsors (18)
    Committees: House Energy and Commerce; House Education and 
Labor; House Foreign Affairs; House Small Business; House 
Science and Technology; House Agriculture; House Oversight and 
Government Reform; House Natural Resources; House 
Transportation and Infrastructure; House Armed Services
    Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 110-289 [GPO: 
Text, PDF]
    Note: Previously H.R. 3221 was the New Direction for Energy 
Independence, National Security, and Consumer Protection Act. 
Omnibus energy legislation was enacted in H.R. 6, which became 
Public Law 110-140 on 12/19/2007.
    4. [110th] H.R. 4252: To provide for an additional 
temporary extension of programs under the Small Business Act 
and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 through May 23, 
2008, and for other purposes.
    Sponsor: Rep Chabot, Steve [OH-1] (introduced 12/4/2007) 
Cosponsors (None)
    Committees: House Small Business
    Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 110-136
    5. [110th] H.R. 4253: To improve and expand small business 
assistance programs for veterans of the armed forces and 
military reservists, and for other purposes.
    Sponsor: Rep Altmire, Jason [PA-4] (introduced 12/4/2007) 
Cosponsors (3)
    Committees: House Small Business
    Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 110-186
    6. H.R.2419
    Title: To provide for the continuation of agricultural 
programs through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes.
    Sponsor: Rep Peterson, Collin C. [MN-7] (introduced 5/22/
2007) Cosponsors (None)
    Related Bills: H. Res. 574, H. Res. 1189, H.J. Res. 88, 
H.R. 5957, H.R. 6124, S. 163, S. 2302
    Latest Major Action: Became Public Law No: 110-234
    House Reports: 110-256 Part 1; Latest Conference Report: 
110-627 (in Congressional Record H3409-3700)
    Note: The House and Senate passed H.R. 2419 over veto, 
enacting 14 of 15 farm bill titles into law. The trade title 
(title III) was inadvertently excluded from the enrolled bill. 
To remedy the situation, both chambers re-passed the farm bill 
conference agreement (including the trade title) as H.R. 6124, 
again over veto. Upon its enactment H.R. 6124, in section 4, 
repealed Public Law 110-234.
                  APPENDIX II--COMMITTEE PUBLICATIONS

                       PART A--COMMITTEE HEARINGS

                                HEARINGS

January 2007
    January 31, 2007
    Full Committee Organizational Meeting
February 2007
    February 8, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The Small Business 
Administration's Budget for Fiscal Year 2008.''
    February 14, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The Small Business 
Administration's Response to the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes.''
March 2007
    March 1, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Increasing Access to Capital 
for Our Nation's Small Businesses.''
    March 7, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Advancing the Innovation 
Agenda: The Perspective of the Technology and 
Telecommunications Industry.''
    March 8, 2007
    Full Committee Legislative Hearing on: ``Disaster Relief 
and Access to Capital.''
    March 14, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Challenges and Solutions to 
Health Insurance Coverage for Small Businesses.''
    March 21, 2007
    Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology Hearing on: 
``Implementation of the Women's Procurement Program and Federal 
Government Efforts in Contracting with Women-Owned 
Businesses.''
    March 22, 2007
    Full Committee hearing on: ``The New Hidden Tax on Small 
Business, on 3% Tax Withholding.''
    March 28, 2007
    Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care & Trade hearing 
on: ``The Value of Health IT to Solo and Small Medical 
Practices.''
    March 29, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The Impact of Proposed Patent 
Reform Legislation on Small Businesses.''
April 2007
    April 11, 2007
    Full Committee Field Hearing on: ``The Impact of New Market 
Tax Credits, the Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) 
Program, and 504 Program on Urban Communities.'' Cincinnati, OH
    April 12, 2007
    Full Committee Field Hearing: ``Participation of Small 
Businesses in Hurricane Katrina Recovery.'' New Orleans, LA
    April 19, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Expanding Small Businesses' 
Access to Federal Contracts.''
    April 26, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Closing the Tax Gap Without 
Creating Burdens for Small Businesses.''
May 2007
    May 2, 2007
    Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight, Hearing on: 
``Is the Veterans Corporation Prepared to Provide 
Entrepreneurial Development Assistance to Service Men and Women 
Returning From Iraq & Afghanistan?''
    May 3, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The Impacts of Renewable 
Energy Production on Small Businesses in Rural America.''
    May 9, 2007
    Subcommittee on Rural & Urban Entrepreneurship Hearing on: 
``Maximizing the Value of Broadband Services to Rural 
Communities.''
    May 10, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Immigration Policies and Their 
Impact on Small Business.''
    May 16, 2007
    Full Committee Legislative Hearing on: ``Energy, Women's 
Business Centers, Veterans' Business, and Entrepreneurial 
Development.''
    May 17, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Liability Reform and Small 
Business.''
    May 24, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Expanding Small Business 
Health Insurance Coverage Using the Private Reinsurance 
Market.''
June 2007
    June 5, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404: 
Will the SEC's and PCAOB's New Standards Lower Compliance Costs 
for Small Companies?''
    June 6, 2007
    Subcommittee on Finance and Tax Hearing on: ``Data 
Security: Small Business Perspectives.''
    June 7, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Family Farmer and Rural Small 
Business Priorities for the 2007 Farm Bill.''
    June 13, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``U.S. Trade Policy and Small 
Business.''
    June 14, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The SBA's Microloan Program.''
    June 20, 2007
    Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology Hearing on: 
``Meeting the Workforce Demands of Small Bio-Energy 
Businesses.''
    June 21, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The SBA's Investment 
Programs.''
    June 28, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Assessing the Impact of the 
Copyright Royalty Board Decision to Increase Royalty Rates on 
Recording Artists and Webcasters.''
July 2007
    July 11
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Small Businesses at the 
Forefront of the Green Revolution: What More Needs to Be Done 
to Keep Them Here?''
    July 12
    Full Committee Legislative Hearing to: ``Improve the SBA's 
Microloan and Trade Programs.''
    July 18
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Medicaid Drug Reimbursements: 
Are Cuts Bad Medicine for Small Businesses and Beneficiaries?''
    July 23
    Full Committee Field Hearing on: ``Challenges Facing Women 
Small Business Owners.'' Philadelphia, PA.
    July 25
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Competitive Bidding for 
Clinical Lab Services: Where's It Heading and What Small 
Businesses Can Expect.''
August 2007
    August 1
    Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade Hearing 
on: ``Ensuring Prompt Payment for Small Health Care 
Providers.''
    August 2
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Disaster Planning and 
Recovery: Are We Ready for Another Katrina?''
    August 23
    Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight Field Hearing 
on: ``The SBA's Response to the July 5 Floods in Beaver County, 
Pennsylvania.'' Aliquippa, PA
    August 30
    Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship Field 
Hearing on: ``How Can Small Businesses Best Address the 
Healthcare Needs of Their Employees?'' Asheville, NC
    August 31
    Full Committee Field Hearing on: ``The Cost and 
Availability of Energy and the Effect on Small Business.'' 
Johnson City, TN

September 2007

    September 6, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The Small Business 
Administration's Investment and Surety Bond Programs.''
    September 19, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The Small Business 
Administration's Contracting Programs.''
    September 26, 2007
    Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology Hearing on: 
``Small Business Renewable Energy Tax Incentive 
Possibilities.''
    September 27, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Legislation to Provide Funding 
Levels.''

October 2007

    October 3, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The Internet Tax Moratorium: 
The Potential Negative Impacts on Small Businesses of Allowing 
Moratorium to Expire.''
    October 4, 2007
    Full Committee Legislative Hearing on: ``The Small Business 
Administration's Contracting Programs.''
    October 10, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The Impact of the 700 
Megahertz Wireless Spectrum Auction on Small Business.''
    October 17, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Small Business Energy 
Priorities.''
    October 24, 2007
    Subcommittee on Finance and Tax Hearing on: ``Pension 
Parity: Addressing the Inequities between Retirement Plan 
Options for Small and Large Businesses.''
    October 25, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Health Insurer Consolidation--
The Impact on Small Business.''
    October 31, 2007
    Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight Hearing on: 
``Competitive Bidding for Durable Medical Equipment: Will Small 
Suppliers Be Able to Compete?''

November 2007

    November 1, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Evaluating the Impact of 
Pending Free Trade Agreements Upon U.S. Small Businesses.''
    November 7, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The State of the Small 
Business Economy.''
    November 8, 2007
    Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade Hearing 
on: ``Medicare's Reimbursement Cuts: The Potential Impact on 
Solo and Small Group Practitioners and the Businesses they 
Run.''
    November 14, 2007
    Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship Hearing 
on: ``Program Harmonization in Rural America--How the Small 
Business Administration (SBA) and U.S. Department of 
Agriculture (USDA) Can Work Together to Better Serve Small 
Businesses.''
    November 15, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Reducing the Regulatory Burden 
on Small Business: Improving the Regulatory Flexibility Act.''

December 2007

    December 6, 2007
    Full Committee Legislative Hearing to: ``Improve the 
RegFlex Act.''
    December 12, 2007
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404: 
New Evidence on the Costs for Small Businesses.''

January 2008

    January 16, 2008
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The SBA's Progress in 
Implementing the Women's Procurement Program.''
    January 17, 2008
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Oversight of the U.S. Export-
Import Bank's Implementation of its Small Business Mandate.''
    January 23, 2008
    Full Committee Hearing on: Health Care: ``Limited Health 
Care Options for Small Businesses in the Small Group Market.''
    January 29, 2008
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``SBIR: America's National 
Technology Development Incubator.''

February 2008

    February 7, 2008
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``The Small Business 
Administration's Budget for Fiscal Year 2009.''
    February 14, 2008
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Business Activity Taxes and 
Their Impact on Small Businesses.''
    February 13, 2008:
    Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight hearing on: 
``SBIR: Advancing Medical Breakthroughs.''
    February 26, 2008:
    Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology hearing on: 
``Plain Language in Paperwork--The Benefits to Small 
Business.''
    February 26, 2008:
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``State Strategies to Expand 
Health Insurance Coverage for Small Businesses.''
    February 28, 2008:
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Improving the Paperwork 
Reduction Act For Small Businesses.''

March 2008

    March 5, 2008
    Subcommittee on Finance and Tax Hearing on: ``Improving the 
SBA's Access to Capital Programs for Our Nation's Small 
Businesses.''
    March 6, 2008
    Full Committee Hearing on: ``Are New Procurement Methods 
Beneficial to Small Business Contractors?''
    March 12, 2008
    Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship Hearing 
on: ``Oversight of the Entrepreneurial Development Programs 
Implemented By the Small Business Administration and National 
Veterans Business Development Corporation.''
    March 13, 2008
    Full Committee Legislative Hearing to: ``Reauthorize the 
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program.''
    March 25, 2008
    Full Committee Field Hearing on: ``The Impact Of The 2006-
2007 Drought on Georgia's Economy.''

April 2008

    April 3, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``The Role of Credit Cards in 
Small Business Financing.''
    April 9, 2008
    Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight hearing on: 
``The Impact of Increasing Gas Prices on Small Businesses.''
    April 10, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Modernizing the Tax Code: 
Updating the Internal Revenue Code to Help Small Businesses 
Stimulate the Economy.''
    April 16, 2008
    Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology hearing on: 
``Ensuring Small Businesses Have Fair Access to Federal 
Contracts.''
    April 17, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Maintaining Public Lands for 
Hunting, Fishing, Ranching and Small Businesses.''
    April 23, 2008
    Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade hearing 
on: ``Minority and Hispanic Participation in the Federal 
Workforce and the Impact on the Small Business Community.''
    April 24, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``The Role of Small Businesses 
in Stimulating the Economy.''
    April 30, 2008
    Subcommittee on Finance and Tax hearing on: ``The Effect of 
the Credit Crunch on Small Business Access to Capital.''

May 2008

    May 1, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Rail Transportation Access for 
Small Businesses and Family Farmers.''
    May 7, 2008
    Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology hearing on: 
``The DTV Transition and Small Businesses: Small Firms 
Contributing to a Big Change.''
    May 8, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Medicare Physician Fee Cuts: 
Can Small Practices Survive.''
    May 14, 2008
    Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade hearing 
on: ``The Impact of CMS Regulations and Programs on Small 
Health Care Providers.''
    May 15, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Food Prices and Small 
Businesses.''
    May 21, 2008
    Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship hearing 
on: ``Competitive Bidding for Durable Medical Equipment.''
    May 22, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``RESPA and Its Impact on Small 
Business.''

June 2008

    June 5, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``The Housing Crisis Identifying 
Tax Incentives to Stimulate the Economy.''
    June 11, 2008
    Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship hearing 
on: ``Second Generation Biofuels: The New Frontier for Small 
Businesses.''
    June 12, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Electronic Payments Tax 
Reporting: Another Tax Burden for Small Businesses.''
    June 18, 2008
    Subcommittee on Finance and Tax hearing on: ``S-Corps: 
Recommended Reforms That Promote Parity, Growth and Development 
for Small Businesses.''
    June 19, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Small Business Exports in the 
Current Economic Climate.''
    June 25, 2008
    Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade hearing 
on: ``The Impact of Online Advertising on Small Firms.''
    June 26, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Grounded: How the Air 
Transportation Crisis Is Hurting Entrepreneurs and the 
Economy.''

July 2008

    July 10, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``The Role of Green Technologies 
in Spurring Economic Growth.''
    July 16, 2008
    Subcommittee on Contracting & Technology hearing on: 
``Ensuring Continuity of Care for Veteran Amputees: The Role of 
Small Prosthetic Practices.''
    July 17, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Small Business 
Administration's (SBA) Contracting Programs and Recent GAO 
Examination of Programs.''
    July 23, 2008
    Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight hearing on: 
``The Impact of Predators in Long-Term Care on Small Business 
Operators.''
    July 24, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Economic Stimulus for Small 
Business: A Look Back and Assessing Need for Additional 
Relief.''
    July 30, 2008
    Subcommittee on Regulations, Health Care and Trade hearing 
on: ``Regulatory Burdens on Small Firms: What Rules Need 
Reform?''
    July 31, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Cost and Confidentiality: The 
Unforeseen Challenges of Electronic Health Records in Small 
Specialty Practices.''

September 2008

    September 11, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Examining Expiring Tax 
Incentives and the Needs of Small Businesses.''
    September 17, 2008
    Subcommittee on Finance and Tax hearing on: ``Disaster 
Savings Accounts: Protections for Small Businesses during a 
Disaster.''
    September 18, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Making Health Care Reform Work 
for Small Business.''
    September 24, 2008
    Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology hearing on: 
``Small Business Recovery from the Midwest Disasters of 2008.''
    September 25, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Small Business Competition 
Policy: Are Markets Open for Entrepreneurs?''

October 2008

    October 28, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Creating Opportunities for 
Small Businesses in an Economic Recovery.''

November 2008

    November 20, 2008
    Full Committee hearing on: ``Review of Recent Federal 
Efforts to Improve Credit Conditions for Small Businesses.''

December 2008

    December 8, 2008
    Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship, North 
Carolina Field hearing on: ``Examining the Effect of Industrial 
Contamination on Small Businesses and Their Surrounding 
Communities, as Well as Potential Solutions.''
    Total: 116
    Full Committee: 66
    Subcommittee: 33
    Field Hearings: 8
                        PART B--COMMITTEE PRINTS

    There are no committee prints in this Congress.

                                  
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