SCORE for Small Business Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Mejia, Analilia [D-NJ-11]
- Committees
- Small Business Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 9, 2026
Bottom line
This bill aims to enhance the accountability, transparency, and operational effectiveness of the SCORE program, ensuring its continued support for small businesses through mentorship and training.
What it actually does
This bill reauthorizes the SCORE program, establishing detailed requirements for its operation, administration oversight, financial management, volunteer duties, and reporting. It mandates the expansion of online counseling services and authorizes appropriations of $17,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 and 2028.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue the bill strengthens a vital program for small business development by formalizing oversight, ensuring financial accountability, and modernizing service delivery, thereby maximizing taxpayer investment and improving outcomes for entrepreneurs nationwide.
Opponents contend
Critics might contend that while the intent is good, the increased administrative burden and detailed requirements could stifle the flexibility and volunteer-driven nature of SCORE, potentially diverting resources from direct small business assistance to compliance activities.
The bill is concise and can be read and understood quickly, allowing ample time for evaluation.
Section 2, amending Section 8 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637)
Reauthorization and Enhanced Program Requirements for SCORE
This section formally reauthorizes the SCORE program and mandates a cooperative agreement between the Small Business Administration (SBA) and SCORE. It outlines specific duties for both the Administrator (e.g., biennial financial examinations, contract review) and SCORE (e.g., managing chapters, annual training, fund separation, volunteer requirements). It also establishes joint duties for the Administrator and SCORE to ensure inclusive service delivery and volunteer recruitment.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue these provisions ensure greater accountability and transparency in the use of federal funds, improve the quality and reach of SCORE services, and strengthen the partnership between SCORE and the SBA, ultimately benefiting small businesses.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that the extensive new requirements, particularly around financial examinations and contract approvals, could create an undue administrative burden on SCORE, potentially diverting resources and staff time away from direct service delivery to small businesses.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies between ensuring robust federal oversight and accountability for taxpayer funds versus maintaining the operational flexibility and volunteer-driven efficiency that characterize the SCORE program.
Section 2, amending Section 8(c)(3) and (4) of the Small Business Act
Mandating Online Services and Centralized Accounting for SCORE
This section requires SCORE to maintain and expand its online counseling services, including webinars and electronic mentoring. It also mandates that SCORE establish a centralized accounting and financing system for all its chapters, uniform policies for managing federal funds, and appoint a compliance officer to ensure expenditure adherence.
Section 2, amending Section 8(c)(5)-(8) of the Small Business Act
Employee Compensation Limits, Whistleblower Protections, and Client Privacy
This section caps SCORE employee salaries at the maximum rate for a career Senior Executive Service individual at the SBA and limits performance awards. It also mandates annual updates to manuals and training for whistleblower protections, encouraging the use of the SBA OIG hotline. Furthermore, it establishes strict privacy requirements for client information, prohibiting disclosure without consent, except for court orders or financial audits, and requires the Administrator to set standards for such disclosures and client surveys.
Section 2, amending Section 8(c)(9) and Section 3, amending Section 20(i) of the Small Business Act
Comprehensive Annual Reporting and Funding Reauthorization
This section requires the SBA Administrator to submit an annual report to Congress on SCORE's performance and effectiveness, including metrics like client numbers, counseling hours, workshop attendance, demographics, job creation, and financial assistance referrals. It also reauthorizes appropriations for the SCORE program at $17,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 and 2028.
Mandates that the cooperative agreement provide for federal funds to be paid to SCORE in lump sum or installments, in advance or by reimbursement, and requires the Administrator to issue a notice of award and begin disbursement within 30 days of funds being made available.
Section 2, amending Section 8(c)(8)(B)(iii) of the Small Business Act
Why it matters:Likely standard legislative drafting practice to group related administrative details, even if loosely, rather than an attempt to hide it.
Case for: Supporters would argue this ensures timely and predictable funding for SCORE, allowing the organization to plan and execute its programs without cash flow disruptions, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
Case against: No strong case against, as it's an administrative detail aimed at efficiency. Some might argue that advance payments could reduce immediate federal oversight on expenditure, but the bill includes other oversight mechanisms.
Estimated impact: Ensures consistent and timely financial support for SCORE's operations, impacting its ability to deliver services without interruption.