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HR 3556

To amend the Small Business Act to modify application deadlines and communication requirements for certain disaster assistance, and for other purposes.

119th Congress Introduced by Chuck Edwards and 1 co-sponsor

HR 3556 modifies disaster assistance for small businesses by extending application deadlines and improving communication with Congress, ensuring better access to relief funds.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 3556

Summary of HR 3556: Amendments to the Small Business Act

Bill Number: HR 3556
Title: To amend the Small Business Act to modify application deadlines and communication requirements for certain disaster assistance, and for other purposes.
Status: Introduced in House
Introduced Date: May 21, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 3556 is to amend the Small Business Act to enhance the process for small businesses seeking disaster assistance. This bill aims to provide more flexibility regarding application deadlines and improve communication between disaster-affected businesses and their congressional representatives.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant changes to the Small Business Act, specifically in Section 7(b):

  1. Modification of Application Deadlines:

    • The bill changes the language regarding application deadlines for disaster relief. It specifies that deadlines will now end 60 days after any application deadlines that are established.
    • It allows the Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) to accept late applications for disaster relief if the applicant can demonstrate good cause for the delay.

  2. Enhanced Communication Requirements:

    • The bill mandates that the SBA must communicate with each office of a Member of Congress representing a district affected by a major disaster. This is in addition to existing communication through web-based outlets.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Small Businesses: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are small businesses that have been impacted by major disasters. The amendments aim to provide them with greater access to disaster relief funds.
  • Members of Congress: Congressional offices representing disaster-affected areas will have improved communication regarding disaster assistance, allowing them to better support their constituents.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the House Committee on Small Business on May 21, 2025.
  • The primary sponsor of the bill is Joe Neguse, with Chuck Edwards serving as a cosponsor.

Conclusion

HR 3556 seeks to streamline the disaster assistance application process for small businesses and enhance communication with congressional representatives. By modifying deadlines and allowing for late applications under certain circumstances, the bill aims to ensure that more businesses can access the support they need in the aftermath of disasters.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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