Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com 617-875-6581 Executive order rolling back economic protections threatens small business growth and economic vitality SBAF Co-Chair Shaundell Newsome on Executive Order dismantling decades-old anti-discrimination protections will reduce competition in federal contracting and harm small business opportunities across the economy. WASHINGTON, D.C., Jan. 22, 2025 — “President Trump’s executive order rolling back provisions that for decades have provided underrepresented communities with opportunity to participate in the economy is a threat to the vitality of American small businesses and our country’s economic potential. This sweeping action goes far beyond addressing recent government and corporate initiatives — it dismantles fundamental protections dating back to the 1960s that have helped ensure fair competition in federal contracting. By eliminating these basic protections and terminating equity-focused grant programs, this order makes it substantially harder for many small businesses to compete for government contracts and access critical funding opportunities. “When we prevent communities from competing fairly in the marketplace, we harm our entire economy. The order’s elimination of longstanding equal opportunity requirements in federal contracting sends us back to a time when discrimination in government contracting was commonplace. This doesn’t just affect minority-owned businesses — it reduces competition and innovation across our entire small business ecosystem at a time when we should be fostering our historic wave of entrepreneurship. With over 20 million new small business applications filed during the previous administration, this is precisely the time to ensure all entrepreneurs have fair access to federal contracts and business opportunities. This order will have a chilling effect on anyone trying to make it as an entrepreneur.  “Small business owners must make their voices heard on this critical issue. Entrepreneurs should contact their representatives, share how this order impacts their businesses, and join efforts to preserve fair competition. While this executive order is a significant setback, Small Business for America’s Future will continue working to ensure all entrepreneurs have a fair chance to compete and succeed in the American economy.” To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Co-Chair Shaundell Newsome, contact Janel Knight Trulear at janel@emccommunications.com or 617-875-6581. About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future (SBAF) is a national coalition of business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize Main Street by advancing a just and equitable economic framework that works for small business owners, their employees and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. #SmallBizAF

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 STATEMENT: Small business group welcomes next cycle of Medicare prescription drug negotiations Statement by Small Business for America's Future Co-Chair Dr. Erika Gonzalez, CEO, President, & Co-Founder of South Texas Allergy and Asthma Medical Professionals (STAAMP) and STAAMP Clinical Research, on HHS and CMS's announcement of the next round of prescription drugs up for Medicare negotiations Jan. 17, 2025– "The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announcement of the 15 prescription drugs selected for the second cycle of price negotiations marks a needed step in addressing one of the top financial pressures facing small businesses today–the rising cost of health care. These negotiations are important for small business owners who face ever-increasing health insurance premiums driven by high prescription drug costs, which directly impact their ability to grow their businesses, hire workers, and stay competitive in the marketplace. "For too long, small business owners have struggled with the overwhelming burden of prescription drug costs that force difficult choices between providing healthcare coverage and investing in business growth. A SBAF survey showed bipartisan agreement that prescription drug prices are too high with 94% of small business owners saying it needs to be changed and more than half saying the marketplace needs an overhaul. "Medicare drug price negotiations are creating an avenue to drive transparency in drug pricing that can lead to more affordable healthcare for small businesses and their employees. As Medicare secures better prices for prescription drugs, it puts downward pressure on costs throughout the healthcare system. The first cycle of negotiations are expected to lower out-of-pocket costs by $1.5 billion in 2026. The selected drugs in the second cycle of negotiations account for $40.7 billion in prescription drug costs. This is exactly the kind of action small business owners have been asking for to address healthcare costs. "While this represents progress, the work to lower overall healthcare costs must continue. We encourage policymakers to build on this momentum and implement additional measures that will extend these cost-saving benefits throughout the healthcare system." To request an interview with Small Business for America's Future Co-Chair Dr. Erika Gonzalez, contact Janel Knight Trulear at (617) 875-6581 or janel@emccommunications.com. ### About Small Business for America's Future Small Business for America's Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We're committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation's 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. #SmallBizAF.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Nazirah Ahmad nazirah@emccommunications.com (704)290-6869 Small business group urges Congress to develop tax policies that boost Main Street and bolster the economy Statement by Small Business for America’s Future Co-chair Anne Zimmerman, Owner of Zimmerman & Co CPAs Inc. Jan. 13, 2025– "We are deeply concerned about the U.S. Treasury's recent analysis of making the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) permanent. The analysis shows extending all TCJA tax cuts would add $4.2 trillion to the deficit over the next decade, with half going towards tax cuts for millionaires. This approach balloons the deficit unnecessarily and could lead to higher borrowing costs and reduced government investment in infrastructure and programs that small businesses rely on. “Small business owners need a responsible tax policy that both supports Main Street and maintains fiscal stability - not one that adds trillions to the deficit while primarily benefiting the ultra-wealthy.A Small Business for America’s Future survey shows that the majority of small business owners reported that the TCJA failed to support their growth, with 80% saying it did not help them hire new employees and 76% saying it did not help them raise salaries or purchase new equipment. “Our tax code must be revamped with Main Street's priorities at the center. As we approach the expiration of key provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, we urge Congress to consider implementing policies that unleash small business potential as catalysts for economic success.” To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Co-chair Anne Zimmerman contact Nazirah Ahmad at nazirah@emccommunications.com or 704-290-6869. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 Small business group welcomes Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship leadership, urges focus on policies that bolster Main Street and our economy Statement by Small Business for America’s Future Co-chair Anne Zimmerman, Owner of Zimmerman & Co CPAs Inc. Jan. 13, 2025– “We welcome incoming Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Joni Ernst who has a long tenure on the committee. As small business owners navigate increasingly complex challenges, we know her experience will provide valuable insight into developing effective solutions for Main Street's most pressing needs. “We also welcome Ranking Member Senator Edward J. Markey and are eager to hear their policy ideas to advance America’s 35 million small businesses, which are the backbone of the U.S. economy. “Main Street businesses are major drivers of the economy generating over 70% of the nation's net new jobs since 2019. They are valuable contributors to their communities, providing employment, goods and services, economic activity and civic support. Their needs must be met so we can all succeed. “That includes reforms to the tax code. With provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) set to expire this year, policies that genuinely support small business growth must be developed. According to our surveys of small business owners the TCJA did little for Main Street with 80% of small business owners reporting it did not help them hire new employees or invest in their businesses. “The work of this committee for the 119th Congress will shape how small businesses thrive and grow. We look forward to the progress and possibilities that lie ahead and working with the committee.” To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Co-chair Anne Zimmerman contact Janel Knight Trulear at janel@emccommunications.com or 617-875-6581. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Conan Knoll conan@emccommunications.com (831) 524-6764 New AP Data: Small Businesses Are Uniquely Trusted By The American People To Speak On Policy Issues WASHINGTON D.C., Dec. 30, 2024 – New data from the Associated Press , highlighted in Axios , finds that small businesses are uniquely trusted by Democrats, Independents, and Republicans to speak on policy issues. More Americans approve of small businesses taking a public stand on policy issues than any other institution tested. Axios: 🤐 We've heard enough Americans want to hear less about politics from public figures — and Republicans really don't want to hear it, according to a new poll by AP and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research at the University of Chicago. 🛍️ Small business is a huge exception: 43% of people are happy to hear from entrepreneurs. That breaks down to 49% of Dems, 41% of Republicans and 33% of independents. Read the full data from the AP here .

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 Small business group urges 119th Congress to focus on policies that boost Main Street and bolster the economy Statement by Small Business for America’s Future Co-chair Shaundell Newsome, Founder of Sumnu Marketing in Las Vegas, Nevada Jan. 7, 2025 – As the 119th Congress begins its work, America’s 35 million small businesses look forward to policies that recognize their crucial role in our economy. Having generated over 70% of the nation's net new jobs since 2019, and leading the way to post pandemic recovery, small businesses are the undisputed economic engine of local communities across the country. While large corporations often dominate policy discussions, the success of Main Street entrepreneurs — who drive innovation, create jobs, and strengthen neighborhoods in every state — is critical to building lasting economic prosperity for all Americans. To support this vital economic engine, Congress must prioritize policies that empower small business growth and innovation. Our key priorities include: Tax Reform That Truly Serves Main Street: With the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provisions expiring, Congress must craft targeted approaches that genuinely support small business growth. Previous reforms fell short – 80% of small business owners report the TCJA did not help them hire new employees or invest in their businesses, our survey showed . Healthcare Cost Solutions: Healthcare costs remain a top concern across the political spectrum. Small businesses face a competitive disadvantage against large corporations that can offer comprehensive benefits packages. Congress should strengthen the Affordable Care Act's foundation while implementing measures to reduce costs for small business owners and their employees. Economic Security Measures: Congress must address fundamental challenges that hinder small business competitiveness. This includes expanding tax credits for working families, creating portable benefits systems, and developing retirement options that reflect business realities. The childcare crisis demands particular attention, with solutions needed for both business owners and their workforce. Access to Capital: We need stronger financial protections, including transparency requirements for small business lending and targeted SBA loan programs for the smallest businesses. These protections would help ensure fair competition and support both new and established small businesses. The 119th Congress has an opportunity to empower Main Street by advancing policies that give small business owners a fair shot at success – not just for the benefit of these entrepreneurs, but for the millions of American workers and families who depend on a thriving small business economy. To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Shaundell Newsome or other small business owners, contact Janel Knight Trulear at janel@emccommunications.com or 617-875-6581. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com 617-875-6581 Small business group applauds release of House Working Group bipartisan paid leave legislative text Statement by Small Business for America's Future Co-Chair Walt Rowen, CEO of Susquehanna Glass Company in Columbia, Pa. on the House Working Group's paid leave legislative text COLUMBIA, Pa., Dec. 18, 2024— “In today’s competitive labor market, small businesses need every tool available to attract and retain talented employees. That's why I welcome the release of two discussion drafts from the House Paid Family Leave Working Group. I particularly commend Rep. Chrissy Houlahan and Rep. Stephanie Bice for their leadership in co-chairing this effort. As a Pennsylvania small business owner, I appreciate Rep. Houlahan's dedication to understanding the challenges faced by both businesses and workers in our state and beyond. “The financial challenges that small businesses face in offering paid leave benefits can put them at a disadvantage when competing with large corporations for workers. The discussion drafts work to address this through two promising approaches: a competitive grant program to help states establish public-private partnership paid leave programs, and the Interstate Paid Leave Action Network (I-PLAN) to improve coordination between state programs. These measures are an important step toward helping to level the playing field and strengthen our position as job creators in our communities. “Recent research shows the clear business benefits of paid leave policies. In states with existing paid leave laws, 55% of businesses report improved employee retention, and 62% note increased employee morale. Nearly half of small business owners in these states find that paid leave programs generate business savings. “Paid leave will help create stronger, more resilient small businesses while ensuring our employees can care for themselves and their families when they need it most. We look forward to providing feedback on these discussion drafts and working with Congress to develop solutions that will strengthen small businesses while ensuring our employees can care for themselves and their families when they need it most. To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Co-chair Walt Rowen contact Janel Knight Trulear at (617) 875-6581 or janel@emccommunications.com. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com 617-875-6581 Small business group comments on FTC price discrimination case, calls for level playing field for small businesses Statement by Small Business for America’s Future Co-Chair Anne Zimmerman responds to FTC legal action against Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits Dec. 12, 2024. – “ The allegations revealed in the FTC's lawsuit against Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits are deeply troubling. The pattern of price discrimination described in the complaint puts countless Main Street businesses at a severe competitive disadvantage, creating an uneven playing field that is hard to overcome. “When large distributors provide preferential pricing to national chains while charging independent stores significantly higher prices for the exact same products, they're hurting small businesses by giving these big businesses a competitive unfair advantage. Our local wine shops, neighborhood grocery stores, and independent retailers create jobs, support local causes, and stimulate their local economies but unfair pricing practices threaten their survival and the affordability of Main Streets across the country. “It’s clear a level playing field is needed and we need more action that will ensure all small businesses regardless of size, have fair access to products at competitive prices. Practices alleged in this complaint must end. Our economy and communities deserve it.” To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Co-chair Anne Zimmerman contact Janel Knight Trulear at (617) 875-6581 or janel@emccommunications.com. ###  About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact Nazirah Ahmad nazirah@emccommunications.com 704-290-6869 STATEMENT: Small business group urges focus on the issues that truly matter to Main Street small businesses, institutional stability following Loeffler SBA nomination Statement by Walt Rowen, Co-chair of Small Business for America’s Future and President of Susquehanna Glass Co. in Columbia, P.A. , on President elect Trump’s nomination of former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler as Small Business Administration Administrator Washington, D.C., Dec. 5, 2024– “As the Senate considers Kelly Loeffler's nomination to lead the Small Business Administration, we urge senators and Ms. Loeffler to prioritize the pressing issues affecting small business owners across the country, including the need for a fair tax code that supports small business growth, solutions to persistently high healthcare costs, and continued support for the unprecedented surge in new business formation we've seen in recent years. The SBA plays a vital role in supporting America's 30 million small businesses, and its leadership must remain focused on addressing the critical challenges facing Main Street small business and entrepreneurs. “Small business owners need a committed advocate at the helm of the SBA who will strengthen the institution's ability to serve Main Street, not diminish it. We hope Ms. Loeffler, who has a business background, will be that advocate, committing herself to working constructively with the small business community, continuing to build the SBA’s crucial role in supporting America's small businesses, and encouraging continued growth in entrepreneurship.” To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Co-chair Walt Rowen contact Nazirah Ahmad at nazirah@emccommunications.com or 704-290-6869. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.