Mid City Times

U.S. Representatives Beth Van Duyne (R-TX-24) and Michael Cloud (R-TX-27) have introduced the American Entrepreneurs First Act, aiming to ensure only qualified individuals can access programs from the Small Business Administration (SBA). This legislation mandates verification of citizenship status and age for applicants seeking SBA loans.

The proposal follows a directive from the Trump Administration for SBA reform to prioritize American citizens and prevent funds from being accessed by unqualified or undocumented individuals.

"The American Entrepreneurs First Act is a common-sense measure to protect precious Small Business Administration funds by ensuring they are directed to American citizens and not accessible by individuals or businesses with foreign or undocumented ownership," stated Rep. Van Duyne. She emphasized the importance of verification processes to prevent fraud and secure federally funded programs.

Chairman Roger Williams endorsed the measure, saying, “The American Entrepreneurs First Act puts America’s small business owners first by ensuring only U.S. Citizens can receive SBA loans.” He highlighted concerns of loan abuse by foreign nationals and supported the efforts of Reps. Van Duyne and Cloud to address these issues.

Rep. Cloud noted, "It’s up to Congress to codify this requirement into law by passing the The American Entrepreneurs First Act." He stressed the necessity of ensuring SBA loan funds support businesses owned by legal residents.

Key provisions of the act include mandatory documentation, certification of applicant citizenship or lawful permanent residency, and verification that no ineligible persons have ownership of applying businesses. Ineligible persons include asylees, refugees, temporary visa holders, and undocumented individuals.