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Congressman for All Alaska Don Young voted today in favor of the Small Business Fairness in Contracting Act (H.R. 1873).  This legislation seeks to reauthorize the programs and activities of the Small Business Administration.  The bill targets three main areas: contract bundling, contracting goals for small businesses, and the government’s database of small business concerns.  The legislation also safeguards taxpayers from waste and abuse.

“This is a good and responsible bill for small businesses,” said Congressman Young.  “It redefines and strengthens already existing language so that we may strengthen small businesses.  Alaska is home to many small businesses, and I want to make sure they are given every opportunity to thrive.  The bill calls for an increase in the government-wide small business funding goal from 23% to 25%. The bill also provides for an increase in the government-wide funding goal for small disadvantaged and woman-owned businesses from 5% to 8%. 

“My one concern with this bill was its seeming lack of support for our Alaska Native Corporation’s 8(a) program.  But I have been assured by House leadership that the 8(a) issue will be looked into and so I’m proud to stand behind a bill that will benefit the many small businesses that make Alaska strong.”  

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