Shutdown Deal Good for Short-Term, but Small Businesses, Economy Need Long-Term Solution

**Small business experts and small businesses across the country available for comment **

Lawmakers̢??‰? agreement today on a short-term bill to fund the government and avoid a default is a relief given the damage the shutdown has done to small businesses and the havoc a default could have wreaked on the economy. However, it̢??‰?s imperative lawmakers find a long-term solution to our budget woes and the ongoing debt ceiling debate, so small businesses and the economy don̢??‰?t continue bearing the brunt of this chaotic style of governing.

How many times can people think the government will shut down or the nation will default on its debt before they lose faith in the institutions of government that underpin the economy? A continual state of crisis is bad for consumer, investor and business confidence. Small businesses are starting to recover from the Great Recession, but they need economic stability and certainty if they're going to continue in that resurgence.

A scientific opinion poll Small Business Majority released found that by a 3:2 margin, the majority of entrepreneurs want a long-term solution to the recurring debt ceiling issue so the U.S. can pay its bills without it coming up for one political vote after another. A 55% majority agrees this short-term tactic allows politicians to hold the economy hostage to their spending priorities and threatens the nation̢??‰?s credit rating. A long-term solution will give small business owners the certainty they need to make long-term decisions regarding their businesses.

Congressional dysfunction has reached a new height that will start affecting the economy if it̢??‰?s not put in check. Small businesses and all Americans need Congress to put political differences aside and do what̢??‰?s right for the nation.