Technical and procedural updates only. v4 reflects the bill's status after passing the House of Representatives and being received and placed on the calendar in the Senate. There are no substantive changes to the legislative text between v3 and v4.
Office of Rural Affairs Enhancement Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Goodlander, Maggie [D-NH-2]
- Committees
- Small Business Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Dec 2, 2025
Bottom line
The bill aims to strengthen the SBA's Office of Rural Affairs by enhancing its leadership qualifications, increasing direct outreach to rural small businesses, and improving transparency through regular reporting.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Small Business Act to clarify and expand the responsibilities of the Office of Rural Affairs within the Small Business Administration (SBA). It mandates specific qualifications for the Assistant Administrator, requires the Office to host webinars and outreach events for rural small businesses, and establishes annual reporting requirements to Congress and the public on the Office's activities and the SBA's lending programs in rural areas. It also updates language regarding the promotion of SBA policies and programs.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill will ensure the Office of Rural Affairs is led by individuals with relevant expertise, directly engage rural small businesses with vital information and resources, and provide crucial oversight through transparent reporting. This enhancement is seen as critical for fostering economic growth and ensuring equitable access to federal support for businesses in rural communities.
Opponents contend
No significant organized opposition has been identified for this bill, as its provisions are generally viewed as administrative improvements and beneficial enhancements to an existing office. Potential minor concerns might revolve around the administrative burden of new reporting and outreach requirements, but these are typically outweighed by the perceived benefits of increased transparency and service.
The bill is short and clearly written, making it accessible for a quick and comprehensive review by any interested reader.
Section 2(1) amending 15 U.S.C. 653(b)
Enhanced Qualifications for Assistant Administrator
This provision amends the Small Business Act to require that the Assistant Administrator of the Office of Rural Affairs possess specific education or professional experience related to rural affairs and small business concerns, including experience in providing development assistance to rural small businesses. This ensures that the head of the office has a direct background relevant to its mission.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue that requiring specialized qualifications for the Assistant Administrator ensures that the Office of Rural Affairs is led by someone deeply familiar with the unique challenges and opportunities facing rural small businesses, thereby improving the effectiveness of its programs and initiatives.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against this provision, as it is generally seen as a measure to improve governance and ensure relevant expertise. Some might argue it could limit the pool of potential candidates, but this is usually considered a minor tradeoff for specialized leadership.
Tradeoffs
The primary tradeoff is potentially limiting the pool of eligible candidates for the Assistant Administrator role versus ensuring that the selected individual possesses highly relevant expertise to effectively serve rural small businesses.
Section 2(2) and (3) amending 15 U.S.C. 653(c) and adding (d)
Expanded Mandate for Rural Outreach and Promotion
This section clarifies and expands the duties of the Office of Rural Affairs. It changes the office's role from merely 'providing information' to 'promoting' SBA policies and programs for rural small businesses. Crucially, it mandates that the Assistant Administrator host webinars and outreach events in various regions of the United States, inviting representatives from SBA district offices, resource partners, and other agencies to participate, thereby increasing direct engagement with rural communities.
Section 2(3) adding 15 U.S.C. 653(e)
Annual Report on Office Activities
This provision mandates that the Administrator of the SBA submit an annual report to the House and Senate Small Business Committees, and make it publicly available, detailing the activities of the Office of Rural Affairs. The report must include operational details (Assistant Administrator's name, budget, staff), a summary of activities, the number of outreach events conducted, an analysis of SBA lending programs for rural concerns, and information gathered from outreach events.