ICYMI: Rep. Mejia Leads Five Bills to Strengthen Small Businesses, Cut Red Tape, and Improve Disaster Relief
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Analilia Mejia (NJ-11), a member of the House Small Business Committee, has led five bills in the 119th Congress to cut bureaucratic red tape, streamline disaster assistance, expand access to federal resources, and protect small-business owners and workers.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our local economies, yet too often they lack the support and resources they need to succeed. Whether recovering from a disaster, navigating federal programs, or protecting their rights, entrepreneurs deserve a government that invests in their success. From Belleville to Jefferson and everywhere in between, I'm fighting to ensure our small businesses have the tools, resources, and opportunities they need not just to survive, but to thrive,” said Congresswoman Mejia.
Disaster Loan Outreach Consistency Act (H.R. 10355)
Advanced unanimously out of the House Small Business Committee
Requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) to maintain consistent, accurate, and up-to-date disaster loan outreach materials, helping business owners navigate federal assistance programs when disaster strikes. The bipartisan bill advanced out of committee in September and awaits a vote on the House floor.
Fast Track Disaster Relief Act (H.R. 10344)
Cuts administrative barriers to disaster recovery by allowing the SBA to obtain necessary tax information directly from the IRS to determine eligibility for disaster loans. This would help streamline the application process and reduce unnecessary paperwork for businesses seeking assistance.
CLEAR Feedback Act (H.R. 10343)
Requires federal agencies to provide clearer, more detailed feedback to small businesses denied federal research and innovation funding. Businesses would receive explanations of why their applications were rejected, helping entrepreneurs improve future proposals, compete, and receive federal opportunities.
SCORE for Small Business Act of 2026 (H.R. 10785)
Reauthorizes the SCORE program, which provides free mentoring, business counseling, and educational resources to entrepreneurs nationwide. The legislation strengthens program oversight and supports online tools that help small-business owners access expert guidance.
Businessowner Immigration Rights and Responsibilities Information Act (BIRRIA) of 2026 (H.R. 9943)
Co-led by Reps. Nydia Velázquez, Gilbert Cisneros, and Analilia Mejia
Requires the SBA to provide accessible, multilingual “know-your-rights” resources to small-business owners and employees during immigration enforcement actions. The legislation would help businesses understand their constitutional protections, comply with federal law, and prepare for potential enforcement encounters.
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