Small businesses are the backbone of our communities. They're where innovation begins, where neighbors support neighbors, and where the American Dream lives. But too often, red tape, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and unfair competition get in the way of their success. That's why I was proud to support 10 bills on the floor of the House of Representatives this week-each one focused on empowering small business owners, cutting through federal red tape, and leveling the playing field.

Here's a breakdown of the legislation I voted YESon and why it matters:

H.R. 1642 - Connecting Small Businesses with Career and Technical Education Graduates Act

This bill helps small businesses tap into a skilled workforce by connecting them with graduates of career and technical education programs. It's a win-win-students get jobs, and small businesses get the talent they need.

H.R. 1816 - WOSB Accountability Act

Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSBs) deserve transparency and fairness when competing for federal contracts. This bill ensures agencies are held accountable for meeting WOSB contracting goals.

H.R. 787 - Plain Language in Contracting Act

Federal contracts shouldn't require a law degree to understand. This commonsense bill simplifies contract language so small business owners don't get left behind due to legalese and government jargon.

H.R. 789 - Transparency and Predictability in Small Business Opportunities Act

Small businesses need time to prepare and plan. This bill requires federal agencies to provide clearer timelines and to be more transparent in their operations-helping small businesses compete and succeed.

H.R. 1804 - 7(a) Loan Agent Oversight Act

The SBA's 7(a) loan program is vital for small business financing. This bill improves oversight of loan agents to ensure the program works efficiently, transparently, and in the best interests of small business borrowers.

H.R. 1634 - ThinkDIFFERENTLY About Disability Employment Act

This bill encourages federal programs to better support entrepreneurs with disabilities, helping them access training, capital, and contracting opportunities-because entrepreneurship should be open to everyone.

H.R. 1621 - Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Reporting Act

Data drives smart policy. This bill ensures the SBA reports how well it's serving entrepreneurs with disabilities, so Congress can identify gaps and improve support.

H.R. 2931 - Save SBA from Sanctuary Cities Act

American taxpayer dollars intended to support small businesses shouldn't be diverted to cities that refuse to comply with our federal immigration laws. This bill protects the integrity of SBA programs and the communities they serve.

H.R. 2987 - CEASE Act

This bill restores proper oversight capabilities of the SBA by reimplementing a limit on the number of Small Business Lending Company (SBLC) licenses. This ensures that the agency can perform its function as the primary regulator of SBLCs, while also making certain that local and regional financial institutions, like community banks, remain a fundamental pillar of 7(a) lending.

H.R. 2966 - American Entrepreneurs First Act

Would require proof of citizenship for the SBA assistance applications to ensure that only legal, eligible applicants can access SBA programs.

Let's get Washington working for our small businesses, not against them.