July 20, 2010

Statement By:
Barney Bishop III, President & CEO, Associated Industries of Florida
Regarding Small Business Jobs Act

“Small businesses are the epitome of the American dream, the lifeblood of our state’s economy and the source of employment for millions of Floridians. Without this critical cog in our economic engine, we’d be in far worse financial shape than we already are. That’s why we must do all we can to bolster our small businesses and see that they make it through these difficult times.

For the last several years, Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) has been aggressively advocating – at both the state and federal level – for policies and programs that assist small business and lead to jobs, jobs and more jobs.

The Small Business Jobs Act moving through the U.S. Senate right now will do just that. Included in this comprehensive bill are measures that increase small and medium-sized businesses’ access to capital and small business loans, encourage investment, provide tax breaks and create incentives that will reinvigorate the entrepreneurial spirit that is so deeply engrained in our national identity. All of which are necessary to help maintain and create jobs through the establishment of new businesses and expansion of existing ones. The Small Business Jobs Act hits all the right points and has something that could positively impact nearly every small business in the country.

AIF commends Sen. LeMieux for his dedication to small business and his support of the Small Business Jobs Act. We strongly encourage his colleagues on Capitol Hill to join Sen. LeMieux in his support for the Small Business Jobs Act and pass this important piece of legislation.”

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