Stop Funding Rioters Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Van Duyne, Beth [R-TX-24]
- Committees
- Small Business Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jun 17, 2025
Bottom line
The bill restricts access to Small Business Administration programs for individuals with specific felony convictions related to assaulting law enforcement or destroying small businesses during riots.
What it actually does
This bill prohibits individuals convicted of certain offenses related to misdemeanor or felony assault of a law enforcement officer, or a felony for actions during a riot that resulted in the destruction of a small business concern, from receiving any assistance from or participating in any program administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA). This aims to prevent federal funds from supporting individuals deemed responsible for specific acts of violence or property damage.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that federal programs, especially those designed to support small businesses, should not benefit individuals who have engaged in criminal acts that directly harm law enforcement or small business concerns. They contend that this measure ensures accountability and protects taxpayer funds from being used by those who have contributed to civil unrest and economic damage.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that such a broad prohibition could disproportionately affect certain communities or individuals, potentially hindering rehabilitation and economic reintegration for those who have served their time. They might also raise concerns about the specific definitions of 'riot' or 'destruction' and the potential for subjective application, or argue that the SBA's mission should focus solely on economic development without adding punitive restrictions based on past criminal records unrelated to business fraud.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its core provisions quickly.
Section 2
Ineligibility for SBA Assistance
This section makes any person ineligible to receive assistance from or through, or participate in, any program administered by the Small Business Administration if they have been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony assault of a law enforcement officer. It also applies to individuals convicted of a felony for actions taken during or in connection with a riot that resulted in the destruction of a small business concern, as defined by the Small Business Act.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision ensures that federal resources intended for legitimate small business development are not diverted to individuals who have actively harmed law enforcement or caused significant damage to small businesses during civil unrest. They believe it upholds public order and fiscal responsibility.
Critics contend
Opponents might contend that this provision could hinder the rehabilitation and economic reintegration of individuals who have served their sentences, potentially leading to higher recidivism rates if avenues for legitimate economic activity are blocked. They may also argue that the SBA's role is not to enforce criminal justice outcomes but to foster economic growth.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for accountability for specific criminal acts with concerns about potential barriers to economic rehabilitation and reintegration for formerly incarcerated individuals. It also raises questions about the appropriate scope of the SBA's eligibility criteria.