Congressional Budget Includes Small Business Wins

“The fact that Congress has dedicated more than $1.3 billion in total funding for direct small business support programs and is working to negotiate critically needed reforms to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations are wins for small businesses. Small Business Majority’s research has found that small business owners overwhelmingly oppose cuts to federal small business support programs, and also found that almost half of small business owners say that increased immigration enforcement has had a negative impact on their business. 

Going forward, lawmakers must also pass legislation that provides pathways to legal status for qualifying undocumented immigrants to bolster an essential small business workforce. This includes passing bipartisan legislation like the Dignity Act (H.R. 4393), which would strengthen immigration laws in the United States while providing certain undocumented, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients and Dreamer status holders with temporary status to support our economy on Main Street. The Dignity Act would also raise outdated immigration caps and increase availability of high-skilled visas, expanding access to talented workers for small businesses in high-skill, manufacturing and agricultural fields.

In the meantime, it’s encouraging that lawmakers are seeking to fund vital small business programs at levels above previous budgetary requests, while keeping level funding for critical programs that faced substantial cuts at one time. We urge President Trump to approve Congress’ proposals to ensure continued funding for essential small business support services and programs. Furthermore, we urge lawmakers to work together to end the chaotic, violent immigration enforcement tactics that are disrupting our economy, and instead develop immigration policies that foster small businesses growth.”