Nydia Velázquez

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield as much time as he may consume to the gentleman from Maine (Mr. Golden), the sponsor of the bill and chair of the Subcommittee on Contracting and Infrastructure.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the measure under consideration.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4406, the Small Business Development Centers Improvement Act of 2019. Mr. Speaker, as always, before we address the many benefits of the bill, I just want to thank the ranking member and his staff for all of their collaboration and hard work to bring this bipartisan package of bills to the floor. Our committee prides itself on our ability to put the noise aside and get meaningful work accomplished. These bills are especially critical because they strengthen the entrepreneurial network of small businesses contributing to our country every day. It is once again a reminder of the importance of working across the aisle and getting things done for America's 30 million small businesses. H.R. 4406 bolsters the Small Business Development Center, or SBDC, Network, which is the Small Business Administration's largest entrepreneurial resource partner. The network delivers free face-to-face counseling and at-cost training in all aspects of business management to new and existing small firms. The services include, but are in no way limited to, assisting small businesses with developing a business plan, accessing capital, marketing, regulatory compliance, technology development, and international trade. The benefits of the program are tangible to businessowners and the Federal taxpayer. For every Federal dollar spent on SBDCs, $2 is returned to the U.S. Treasury, nearly $3 to the States, and approximately $48 in new capital is generated. Unfortunately, over the years, Congress has asked them to take on additional responsibilities, ranging from cybersecurity to export promotion. Increasing the authorization level to $175 million each year, just as this bill does, will allow the program to grow and reach more American entrepreneurs. H.R. 4406 also requires regular reporting to Congress on new metrics to help us better assess the program and how improvements can be made in the future. Starting a business is not for the faint of heart, and strengthening the network will enable SBDCs to continue providing the in-depth business training for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Golden and Vice Ranking Member Radewagen for leading this effort to improve the program, measure its success, and increase awareness of the SBDC program and its many valuable services. Mr. Speaker, I urge Members to support this bipartisan piece of legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 4406) to amend the Small Business Act to improve the small business development centers program, and for other purposes, as amended.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 4407) to amend the Small Business Act to reauthorize the SCORE program, and for other purposes.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the bill before us, H.R. 4407, the SCORE for Small Business Act. There are nearly 30 million small businesses in the United States, representing more than 99 percent of all businesses. These small firms employ nearly 50 percent of all private-sector employees in the U.S. The SBA administers a portfolio of entrepreneurial development programs, which includes the SCORE program. Since its inception, the SBA has undertaken efforts to connect new entrepreneurs and small business owners with more experienced businessmen and -women. This expansive network consists of entrepreneurs, business leaders, and executives who volunteer as mentors to small firms, both in person and online. SCORE has grown to become one of the Federal Government's largest volunteer business adviser and mentoring programs. Yet, the SBA OIG found that improvements are needed to ensure SCORE minimizes risk of fraud or misuse of program funds and to strengthen SBA's oversight and the committee's ability to review the effectiveness of the program. On July 11, 2019, our Subcommittee on Investigations, Oversight and Regulations held a hearing to examine the agency's oversight of the SCORE program. This bill is a direct result of that hearing and much stakeholder engagement. H.R. 4407 not only reauthorizes this essential program, but it also takes steps to restore integrity, accounting, and performance to the program. Doing so ensures the program will continue to have the ability to meet the needs of entrepreneurs. With technology enhancements and streamlined service processes, SCORE mentoring will now be accessible to business owners no matter their location. I commend Congressman Hern and Congresswoman Craig for working together to make sure that the counseling and training programs are operating effectively, as well as holding SBA accountable as a good steward of taxpayer dollars. Mr. Speaker, I urge Members to support this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the measure under consideration.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 4405) to amend the Small Business Act to improve the women's business center program, and for other purposes.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the bill before us today, H.R. 4387, which establishes the Growth Accelerator Fund Competition within SBA. Accelerator programs provide founders of early-stage companies with education, mentorship, financing, cohort-based training, and technical assistance. There are many accelerator success stories. Among them are well-known companies like Airbnb, Dropbox, and Stripe. The SBA funds the Growth Accelerator Fund Competition for the Nation's most innovative, diverse, and promising small business accelerators and incubators. It was created in 2014 to support small business job creation by giving early-stage entrepreneurs opportunities to immerse themselves in an intense learning environment. Monetary prizes of $50,000 to each of the winners go a long way towards supporting the development of accelerators and incubators. Not only does the Growth Accelerator Fund Competition spur economic development and create jobs, but most importantly, it supports innovation in economic areas that are outside of what we have come to think of as traditional coastal tech hubs. It supports places like the industrial heartland, where barriers to capital access have hindered entrepreneurs. The program also has a proven track record of investing in women and minority entrepreneurs. The legislation will authorize $2 million in funds, annually, for 4 years, to carry out the Growth Accelerator Fund Competition. H.R. 4387 continues our commitment of investment in the next generation of American entrepreneurs by promoting innovation and growing jobs. Mr. Speaker, I urge Members to support this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I just want to take this opportunity also to congratulate Congressman Adriano Espaillat from New York and Mr. Balderson for their hard work and the contributions that they are making with this bill. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Espaillat), who is the sponsor of the bill.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Business accelerators help high-growth startup enterprises develop their products, identify promising customer segments, and secure resources, including vital capital and potential employees. It is clear that they serve an important role in innovation, and H.R. 4387 enhances the ability of the SBA's Growth Accelerator Fund Competition so it can continue to assist entrepreneurs. By opening the funding network for companies that may not otherwise have gained such exposure, the growth accelerator fund helps boost small business innovation and grow the economy. The SBA growth accelerator program supports underserved business owners and fills critical gaps in capital access. In 2019, 60 percent of the winners were either women owned, socially or economically disadvantaged, or located in areas with a lower number of SBIR and STTR awards. This bill reinforces our committee's pledge to entrepreneurship and job creation. Finally, I want to thank Mr. Espaillat and Mr. Balderson for their diligence on this bill, and I also want to take the opportunity to thank the ranking member, Mr. Chabot, his staff, and my staff. What we are showing today is that there is not a Republican or Democratic approach when it comes to small businesses. This is the way that we do right by the American people. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 90th Anniversary of Queens Public Library, Ridgewood Branch. I also rise to thank Friends of the Ridgewood Library and Principal Librarian Thomas Maxheimer for their contributions to this celebrated anniversary. Queens Public Library, Ridgewood Branch opened on October 15, 1929. Not only was Queens Public Library, Ridgewood Branch the first library to open in Queens, but also the first library to be publicly-funded by the City of New York. Over the last 90 years, Queens Public Library, Ridgewood Branch has served as a cornerstone of the Queens community. In one of the most diverse counties in New York State, the Library continues to invite individuals of all ages and ethnicities to learn, research and discover. In addition, Queens Public Library, Ridgewood Branch serves the community through unparalleled accessibility, providing resources for individuals with physical and/or visual impairments. From children's story time to genealogical research tools, the library offers a wide range of programming and learning opportunities. I ask my colleagues of the 116th Congress to join me in celebrating the 90th Anniversary of the Queens Public Library, Ridgewood Branch by recognizing its crucial contributions to the Queens community.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to salute the Chinese American Planning Council Brooklyn Community Services on its milestone 40th Anniversary Celebration. I thank them for their commitment to bettering Chinese-American Communities in Brooklyn and greater New York City. Since 1979, CPC Brooklyn Community Services has provided Chinese- American residents in Brooklyn with vital social services, such as child care, youth organizing, workforce development, adult literacy opportunities, senior services and housing support. Since inception, it has delivered culturally competent social services and has been instrumental in enriching and enhancing the quality of life of Chinese- American families in Brooklyn and beyond. The families it serves are grateful for their dedication and commitment to the community. Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating the Chinese American Planning Council Brooklyn Community Services on this special anniversary. These dedicated individuals exemplify outstanding leadership through their public service to the community. I am confident the Chinese American Planning Council Brooklyn Community Services will continue to build on its history of service. I wish them continued success and many years of service.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Enrique Fernandez Toledo, who sadly passed in late September. Those of us in the Puerto Rican community--on both the mainland and the Island--will remember Enrique as a tireless champion for the Puerto Rican people. He was also a loving husband, a father and, to me, personally, a dear friend. Enrique began working in Congress in 1993 as a staffer for my former colleague, Rep. Luis Gutierrez. During Enrique's two decades working for Congress, he fought for fairness and greater economic security for Puerto Rico's most vulnerable. His unwavering commitment to justice and thoughtful insight earned him the senior position of deputy chief of staff. Over the decades, I came to rely on Enrique's vision and wisdom on a range of issues and he provided invaluable guidance and perspective to many Members of Congress in all Puerto Rico-related discussions on Capitol Hill. Following Enrique's service on Capitol Hill, he continued amplifying the voice of millions of Puerto Ricans. In 2018, Enrique joined the Center for American Progress (CAP) as the director of relief and economic development policy for Puerto Rico. There, he was critical to Puerto Rico's ability to access relief and assistance after Hurricane Maria and recover from years of economic malaise. At this time, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Enrique Fernandez Toledo. May he always be remembered for his kindness, indefatigable spirit and the millions of lives he positively affected in Puerto Rico, Chicago and elsewhere. I pray his wife, Mayra; three children, Enrique Jr., Carlos, and Mayrita; and all who knew and loved him, draw strength and peace from his manifold contributions.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor National Dumpling Day. National Dumpling Day was inaugurated back in 2015 in Brooklyn, NY and is now celebrated across America every year on September 26. Dumplings made their humble beginnings in Ancient China, almost 1,800 years ago, where they were known as jiaozi. In America, dumplings were introduced in the mid-1800s by Chinese laborers building the transcontinental railroad. From Korean mandu and Chinese soup dumplings, to the Indian samosa and Tibetan momo, dumplings have become a world delicacy and bear tremendous cultural significance in our Asian Pacific American communities. Today, families come together across our country to the table to wrap, cook and enjoy this delightful treasure. In the 7th Congressional District of New York, we are proud to have CJ TMI Foods, a part of CJ America, as one of the country's largest dumpling manufacturers and the founder of National Dumpling Day. Since 1989, CJ TMI Foods has been a minority-owned business, creating fresh and tasty dumplings and noodles. The company has grown exponentially over the years by expanding into new facilities and employing over 400 people. I admire their trailblazing mission of connecting and inspiring individuals of all cultural identities through exposure to Asian food. Dumplings are more than just delicious comfort food, they are a bonding experience among many of our families. I ask my colleagues in the 116th Congress to join me in celebrating National Dumpling Day and recognizing the value these ubiquitous and delicious pockets of dough carry, unifying neighbors and sparking joy.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor National Dumpling Day. National Dumpling Day was inaugurated back in 2015 in Brooklyn, NY and is now celebrated across America every year on September 26. Dumplings made their humble beginnings in Ancient China, almost 1,800 years ago, where they were known as jiaozi. In America, dumplings were introduced in the mid-1800s by Chinese laborers building the transcontinental railroad. From Korean mandu and Chinese soup dumplings, to the Indian samosa and Tibetan momo, dumplings have become a world delicacy and bear tremendous cultural significance in our Asian Pacific American communities. Today, families come together across our country to the table to wrap, cook and enjoy this delightful treasure. In the 7th Congressional District of New York, we are proud to have CJ TMI Foods, a part of CJ America, as one of the country's largest dumpling manufacturers and the founder of National Dumpling Day. Since 1989, CJ TMI Foods has been a minority-owned business, creating fresh and tasty dumplings and noodles. The company has grown exponentially over the years by expanding into new facilities and employing over 400 people. I admire their trailblazing mission of connecting and inspiring individuals of all cultural identities through exposure to Asian food. Dumplings are more than just delicious comfort food, they are a bonding experience among many of our families. I ask my colleagues in the 116th Congress to join me in celebrating National Dumpling Day and recognizing the value these ubiquitous and delicious pockets of dough carry, unifying neighbors and sparking joy.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Hector Figueroa, a champion for workers, a New Yorker, and proud Puerto Rican, who, sadly, passed last week. While he was relentless in advocating for members of his union, SEIU 32BJ, he was also on the front lines helping taxi drivers, fast food employees, and workers in every sector. To him, anyone who was oppressed was an ally, and he was ready to join them in common cause. Most recently, he was central to building support for relief in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. His belief that everyone deserves respect extended beyond his work as a labor leader. Hector treated everyone, from the youngest organizers to the most powerful elected officials, with genuine kindness. Just last week, this House voted to raise the Federal minimum wage. I like to think, wherever he is, that this will bring a smile to Hector's face. We will honor his memory by advancing the causes that inspired him. Hector always said, ``We'll keep organizing.'' Yes, my friend, we will.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember Hector Figueroa, a champion for workers' rights, an advocate for immigrants, a New Yorker, a passionate Puerto Rican and my dear friend. Above all, Hector was a fighter for the vulnerable, the downtrodden and those who were treated unfairly. Sadly, Hector passed last week. He will be honored at a public service on Wednesday in New York City. Hector Figueroa was known most notably for his leadership of 32BJ SEIU. Under his leadership, 32BJ SEIU grew by over 50,000 members and passed dozens of local and state-level policies. Hector previously worked as SEIU's Organizing Director for Puerto Rico, winning collective bargaining rights for teachers, as well as for SEIU's Justice for Janitors campaign and a researcher for Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers Union (Workers United). Most recently, Hector was central to building support for relief in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. Born in Ponce as the son of two educators, the Island was near and dear to his heart. In the dark months following Hurricane Maria, Hector was critical to mobilizing support among New York's Puerto Rican community, 32BJ members and non- members alike, to send aid to the Island and build political momentum for Washington to do better in channeling assistance to our fellow citizens as they struggled through a humanitarian crisis. Throughout his life, Hector made waves as a progressive fighter for justice for all people. He was relentless in advocating for the rights of the doormen and doorwomen, custodial workers, airport security guards and others who constituted 32BJ's membership. However, he was also on the frontlines helping taxicab drivers, fast food workers and laborers in every sector achieve fairer wages and improved conditions. To him, anyone who was oppressed was an ally and he was ready to join arms with them and march in common cause. His belief that all workers were deserving of respect and kindness extended beyond his work as a labor leader; it infused his very demeanor. Hector treated everyone, from the youngest organizers, to the most junior political aides, to the most powerful elected officials with the same kindness and warmth. Whether it was fighting to expand healthcare, protecting immigrant communities from ICE, strengthening voter rights or addressing the threats of climate change, Hector was on the frontlines of every battle related to economic and social justice. Just last week, this House voted to raise the federal minimum wage, a milestone achievement, years in the making. I like to think wherever he is, that victory would bring a smile to Hector's face. New York City and working people everywhere have lost a champion. I, personally, have lost a dear friend. From my earliest days in politics, I could always count on Hector for wise advice and kind counsel. I'll miss our days together and fighting alongside one another. While he was taken from us too young, we'll honor his memory by continuing to advance the causes that inspired him. As Hector always said, ``We'll keep organizing.'' Yes, my friend, we will.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, take it from the words of Rebecca Hamilton, CEO of Badger Balm, a small cosmetic company in New Hampshire. She said: ``Paying a living wage is a core part of our culture and has helped us hire and retain excellent staff even in a time when other businesses have struggled.'' We have heard businesses that started out small, such as the popular restaurant &pizza, that attribute their fast-growing success to their practice of paying fair wages while maintaining competitive prices. Small companies make up 99 percent of U.S. employers, and nearly 70 percent of our economic activity comes from consumer spending.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, by raising the minimum wage, we can help put money back into consumers' pockets, injecting new life into our Main Street and our economy. I ask everyone to support this important bill.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I am from New York, and I rise in support of the Raise the Wage Act of 2019 for workers in my district and workers everywhere, particularly rural America. The Raise the Wage Act is a long overdue minimum wage increase that will lift wages for millions of Americans and boost the small business economy. Today, under the current minimum wage of just $7.25 per hour, American workers and their families are living on the margins. They spend nights at the dinner table having to decide whether to pay for their child's school trip or groceries for the week. If we are to build a better economy for all Americans, we must ensure that our workers can make a good living and have a good life. Poll after poll shows that small business owners support raising the minimum wage. This is because doing so has been proven to help small firms better retain employees who, in turn, are more productive and higher performing. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record a sign-on statement from Business for a Fair Minimum Wage. Business for a Fair Minimum Wage Federal $15 Sign On Statement As business owners and executives, we support gradually raising the federal minimum wage to $15 by 2024. It's good for business, good for customers and good for our economy. Workers are also customers. Today's $7.25 minimum wage-- just $15,080 a year for full-time workers--doesn't even cover the basics. Raising the minimum wage puts money in the pockets of people who most need to spend it, increasing sales at businesses and boosting the economy. Raising the minimum wage makes good business sense. Low pay typically means high turnover. Raising the minimum wage pays off in lower employee turnover, reduced hiring and training costs, lower error rates, increased productivity and better customer service. Employees often make the difference between repeat customers or lost customers. Raising the minimum wage is smart policy. It will reduce the strain on the safety net caused by wages that people can't live on. It will help level the playing field for businesses and strengthen the consumer spending businesses depend on to thrive. About 1,000 Signers and Counting as of July 17, 2019 Holly Sklar, CEO, Business for a Fair Minimum Wage; Jen Landry, Owner, Steller Botanical Health, Gustavus, AK; Phillip Austin, Owner, DJ Cabinetry Tuscaloosa, AL; Eddie Babies, Owner, Eddie B's Barber Shop Montgomery, AL; Varis Berry, Owner, New Beginning Barber & Style Montgomery, AL; Larry Bethune, Owner, Brenda's BBQ, Montgomery, AL; Joseph Bradley, Co-Owner, Sidekicks Sneaker Shop, Birmingham, AL; Tahera Broadnax, Owner, The Hair Day Birmingham, AL; David Brown, Owner, Manitou Supply, Birmingham, AL; Stephanie Brown, Owner, Hue Studio, Montgomery, AL; Dawn Cassizzi, Owner, Beacon Yoga, Birmingham, AL; Michael Crayton, Owner, MandE Suits, Montgomery, AL. Robert Dean, Owner, Momma Goldberg's Deli, Homewood, AL; Adriane Dunson, Owner, Cora Bella LLC, Tuscaloosa, AL; Newman Evans, Owner, Newman's Classic Cuts, Birmingham, AL; Dan Hall, Owner, Queen City Cycles, Tuscaloosa, AL; Benita Hall, Owner, Shaebreezy Beauty Bar, Montgomery, AL; Carla Hamilton, Owner, Four Comers Gallery, Birmingham, AL; James Harris, President, Harvest Midwest, Birmingham, AL; Tim Hicks, Owner, Veteran Cuts Barber Shop, Montgomery, AL; Ashraf Hijaz, Owner, Beauty & Beyond, Montgomery, AL; Justin Holt, Owner, Dotson's Burger Spot, Tuscaloosa, AL; Jose lzaguarre, Owner, TechniGO, Tuscaloosa, AL; Nate Johnson, Owner, Teamwork Barber Shop, Selma, AL; Walter L Johnson Sr., Owner, Village East Shoe Center, Montgomery, AL; Raymond Josof, Owner, Five Points Hotdogs, Birmingham, AL; Melissa Kendrick, CEO, Sojourns, Birmingham, AL; Uluybell Khorsanov, Owner, Prof Alterations, Tuscaloosa, AL; Dr. Jerry Kirby, Owner, Kirby Chiropractic Clinic, Montgomery, AL; LaKeitha Knox, Owner, The Head Doctor, Tuscaloosa, AL; Nicholas Lewis, Owner, Tha Cutting Zone, Tuscaloosa, AL; Brandon MacDonald, Owner, MacDonald Insurance Group, Birmingham, AL; Alexis Martin, Owner, Lex Couture Boutique, Selma, AL; Charli Matthews, CEO, Empowering Brands, Tuscaloosa, AL; Marisa Mitchell, Owner, Swaddle, Birmingham, AL; Kenya Mitchell, Owner, SKT Hair Salon, Selina, AL; Byong Hyon Moon, Owner, Tuny Custom T- shirts, Montgomery, AL. Naboo A. Obeird, Owner, Makano's Kabob Express, Birmingham, AL; Derrick Paoletto, Owner, The Record Stop, Montgomery, AL; Salisha Parker, Owner, This & That LLC, Selma, AL; Kirsten Perry, Owner, KD Bridal & Prom, Selma, AL; Brittney Powell, Owner, Kay Couture, Montgomery, AL; Jim Reed, Owner, Reed's Book Store, Birmingham, AL; Katie Rengers, Director and Vicar, The Abbey, Birmingham, AL; Juan Rivera, Owner, Rivera's Barber Shop, Northport, AL; Jim Robertson, Owner, Robertson's Health Food Center, Northport, AL; Betty Rollins, Owner, Cloverdale Laundry & Dry Cleaners, Montgomery, AL; Chris Roycroft, Owner, Olive Tree, Tuscaloosa, AL; Vanessa Sanders, Owner, Kut N Go, Montgomery, AL; Craig Shaw, Owner, True Story Brewing Co., Birmingham, AL. William Sheppard, Owner, Sheppard's Pet Supply, Birmingham, AL; Muhammad Sikander, Owner, Shoe Times, Montgomery, AL; Mellissa Smith, Owner, Island Delight, Montgomery, AL; Jarrell Smith, Owner, Cutz & Budz, Montgomery, AL; Gregory Smitherman, Owner, Anatomy of Pi, Dora, AL; Justin Snipes, Owner, The Comic Strip, Tuscaloosa, AL; Casey Snipes, Owner, Trxi Vintage, Birmingham, AL; Mark Snyder, Owner, Mark's Joint Restaurant, Homewood, AL; Robby Spaeth, Owner, Capital City Tire & Auto Sales, Montgomery, AL; Curtis Starks, Co- owner, Train & Burn, Birmingham, AL; Cheri Stewart, Owner, Trim Tab Brewing, Birmingham, AL; Deon Trone, Owner, Deon's Style & Barber Shop, Tuscaloosa, AL; Deon Trone, Owner, Deon's Automotive, Tuscaloosa, AL; Teresa Vickrey, Owner, Natural Healing, Montgomery, AL; Johnny Weatherspoon, Owner, Style Connection Barber Shop, Tuscaloosa, AL; LaTesha Wells, Owner, Salon Ambience, Tuscaloosa, AL; Christie White, Owner, Arcadia Salon, Birmingham, AL; Tim Williamson, Owner, Carter Drug, Selma, AL; Kandice Wright, Owner, Hair by Kandice, Tuscaloosa, AL; Bradley Wyatt, Owner, Copper Top, Tuscaloosa, AL; Blake Ralston, Owner, Ralston Agency, Fort Smith, AR; Steve Svendson, Owner, Svendson Agency, Rogers, AR; Daniel Aguilera, Owner, 480 Barber Shop, Chandler, AZ; Janice Brian, Owner, Alley Cats Haircutting Salon, Flagstaff, AZ; Malcolm Bates, Owner, Rogue Antiques Retro and Vintage, Flagstaff, AZ. Paula Beltran, Owner, V.I. Alterations & Tailoring, Mesa, AZ; Rita Burnette, Owner, Make-U-Mobile, Mesa, AZ; Eric Cady, Co-Owner, Chupacabra Taproom, Mesa, AZ; Francisco Carlos, Owner, Cabinets by Design, Phoenix, AZ; Cartiye Carter, Owner, 24K Hair Spa, Phoenix, AZ; Jorge Castillo, Co-Owner, The Gaming Zone, Tempe, AZ; Alison Chandler, Co-Owner, Noble Beast Pet Market, Phoenix, AZ; Abel Chavez, Owner, Chavez Barber Shop, Tempe, AZ; Shang Syun Chiu, Owner, Dealer Electronics, Mesa, AZ; Natalie Clark, Owner, AZ Lash Lady, Chandler, AZ; Kimberly Clarke, Owner, Solstice Intimates, Tempe, AZ; Mark Cosmas, Owner, iRun, Phoenix, AZ. Phil Costa, Owner, Unique Pianos, Phoenix, AZ; Lauren Danuser, Owner, Local Nomad, Phoenix, AZ; Daniel DeHoyos, Owner, Fritz's Barbershop, Mesa, AZ; Eileen Fisher, Founder, EILEEN FISHER, Scottsdale, AZ; Alfredo Flores, Owner, Watch & Jewelry Repair, Tempe, AZ; Farrell Friedland, President, Professional Alternatives of Arizona, LLC, Scottsdale, AZ; Justin Fultz, Owner, Let Us Floor You, Inc, Chandler, AZ; Gina Galaviz, Co-Owner, Flag T Factory, Flagstaff, AZ; Kristin Garcia, Owner, Purge Love Peace Rage Room, Chandler, AZ; Brenda Hackman, Co-Owner, EmbroidMe, Phoenix, AZ; Tim Hackman, Co-Owner, EmbroidMe, Phoenix, AZ; Billy Halton, Co- Owner, Casa Grande Dry Cleaning, Casa Grande, AZ. Eddie Hantas, Owner, Hummus Express, Tempe, AZ; Lamar Harris, Co-Owner, Get Sassy Beauty Supply, Chandler, AZ; Nicholas Harron, Owner, 1UPGames, Mesa, AZ; Fahima Hassan, Owner, Khyber Halal, Phoenix, AZ; Dionne Hauke, Owner, Ziggie's Music, Phoenix, AZ; Jason Hemann, Owner, Kitchen AZ, Chandler, AZ; Gabrielle Hopkins, Owner, Food Diva AZ, Chandler, AZ; Gabrielle Hopkins, Owner, Wild Elk Den, Chandler, AZ; Jeannette Housner, Owner, Dion's Le Wig Shoppe, Scottsdale, AZ; Skip Jones, Owner, Caveman Printing & Apparel, Mesa, AZ; Brad Keeling, Owner, Maroney's Cleaners & Laundry, Phoenix, AZ. Brad Keeling, President, OrganiCare, Phoenix, AZ; Danyelle Kimbell, Owner, Just In Time Hair Design, Chandler, AZ; Anthony Kyhn, Owner, Salon Red Arcadia, Phoenix, AZ; Adele LaVoie, Owner, French Method Salon, Phoenix, AZ; Cenobio Lopez, Owner, Nancy's Jewelry and Clothing, Chandler, AZ; Alison Lueders, CEO, Great Green Content, Phoenix, AZ; David Luna, Owner, Luna's Hair & Barbershop, Mesa, AZ; Treasure Mandley, Owner, HairADize, Chandler, AZ; Nancy J. McCulla, Owner, Simply Delicious Catering & Cafe Daily Fare, Flagstaff, AZ; Edmundo Meraz, Co-Owner, Republica Empanada, Mesa, AZ; Scott Miner D.C., Owner, OMNI Chiropractic, Tempe, AZ; Kim Natori, Founder, Let's Begin Again, Phoenix, AZ; Maria Ortiz, Owner, La Nortenita, Flagstaff, AZ; Heather Phalan, Owner, All Awards Studio, Flagstaff, AZ; Meir Pinhkasov, Owner, Brooklyn'z Barbershop LLC, Phoenix, AZ; Turney Postlewait, Owner, Biff's Bagels' Flagstaff, AZ; Urban Quintero, Co-Owner, Quintero Jewelry, Chandler, AZ; Leo Ramirez, Co-Owner, Sa Morz Bakery, Casa Grande, AZ;Alma Reyes, Owner, Isela's Beauty Salon, Chandler, AZ; Dianne Ripplinger, Owner, Di's Hair & Nail Salon, Mesa, AZ; Laurel Roach, Owner, Trifit Wellness, Phoenix, AZ; John Rooney, Co- Owner, Adventures in Stained Glass, Casa Grande, AZ; Michael Roviello, Owner, Andromeda LLC, Phoenix, AZ; Sergio Sanchez, Owner, Crates Records, Phoenix, AZ; Michael Spangenberg, Owner, State Forty Eight, Chandler, AZ; Wayne B. Taylor, President, Taylor's Flooring, Mesa, AZ. Bob Thomas, Owner, Bob's Tropical Inc., Phoenix, AZ; Chris Thomas, Owner, Universal Cuts & Design, Mesa, AZ; Paul Torok, CEO, PS YES LLC, Phoenix, AZ; Harold Torres, President, Hair 2 Day, Tempe, AZ; Pete Turner, Owner, Illegal Pete's Restaurants, Tucson, AZ; Alvaro Valentin, Owner, Fresh As Can ``V'', Chandler, AZ; Dan Vasquez, Owner, Dapper Dan's Barber Shop, Scottsdale, AZ; Dustin Venekamp, Owner, Altig-Venekamp Agency, Phoenix, AZ; Marie Verdugo, Owner, NuYou Life Center, Phoenix, AZ; Jamie Warner, Co-Owner, Yellow Jacket Comics LLC, Tempe, AZ; Brittany Weir, Owner, The Mad Bird, Phoenix, AZ; Paul Williams, Owner/Chef, Smoke Dem Bones BBQ, Phoenix,

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Chairman, there are nearly 30 million small businesses in the United States representing more than 99 percent of all businesses. They spur the American economy by taking great risks to launch new ventures, develop new products, and, ultimately spur job growth, and the SBA is a vital part of their support system. The SBA administers a portfolio of entrepreneurial development programs which includes growth accelerators. They help high-growth startups develop their products, identify promising customer segments, and secure resources like vital capital and employees. My amendment aims to restore funding to prior levels, so they have the resources they need to help aspiring entrepreneurs. Growth accelerators have long been a powerful tool for helping innovators grow. Each year since they were formed in 2005 they have gained in popularity. In fact, their numbers nearly doubled each year between 2008 and 2014 with growth remaining steady since then. They serve as an all-inclusive creative hub that provides technical assistance for growing businesses and a central location for investors to find vetted businesses. The success of these companies is real. The average valuation of firms graduating from an accelerator is $90 million. But beyond promoting business expansion, growth accelerators also bring economic development and job opportunities to the communities in which they are located. The SBA Office of Advocacy found that startups working with their local accelerator hire an average of 8.5 more employees. Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, and we should provide our entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed, and that is what this amendment does. I am seeking to bring growth accelerators up to a reasonable funding level by providing a $1 million increase. Doing so brings the funding in line with previously enacted levels and gives them the ability to continue helping our Nation's innovative startups and spurring job creation. Clearly, Mr. Chairman, accelerators are a vital part of our Nation's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Therefore, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. VELAZQUEZ

Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember Benny Wong, a community member, local leader, media visionary and fearless immigrant from Hong Kong, China. For decades, Benny gave a voice to New York's Chinese-American community through his broadcasting company, Chung Wah Chinese Broadcasting (CWCB). Benny founded CWCB in 1968 as a non-profit media platform spanning three states and 50 square miles. Ever since, CWCB's airwaves have offered a sanctuary space for thousands of Chinese speaking immigrants and reigns the oldest Chinese language radio station in the NYC area. CWCB was also a catalyst for information accessibility and public engagement. Frequently featuring representatives from the Social Services Administration, as well as members from the City Council and State Senate, CWCB provided our communities with the opportunity for dialogue concerning social services, health and government. At this time, I would like to express my profound appreciation to Benny Wong for his contributions to our New York community. As long as CWCB continues serving our community, Benny's legacy will continue. Our city would not be the same without him.