H.R. 2968: Business over Ballots Act

The bill titled the Business over Ballots Act aims to restrict the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) activities related to voter registration. Here are the primary components of the bill:

Purpose and Scope

The bill expresses the sense of Congress that:

• The SBA should concentrate on supporting small businesses.
• Facilitating access to voter registration is seen as outside the SBA's mission and authority under federal law.
• No executive order issued by the President should conflict with this bill or require the SBA to help with voter registration.

Prohibitions and Limitations

The bill outlines specific limitations on the SBA's authority:

• Prohibition on Voter Registration Facilitation: The SBA Administrator cannot engage in activities to assist with voter registration except as allowed under existing federal law.
• Contract Terms: Any contracts or agreements made by the SBA must include clauses stating that the assistance provided cannot be used for voter registration facilitation.
• Restrictions for Existing Recipients: Current recipients of assistance from the SBA are also prohibited from using that assistance to help with voter registration unless it is explicitly allowed in their agreements.
• Restrictions on Covered Entities: The SBA cannot direct or request covered entities to assist with voter registration unless authorized by Congress.

Definitions

The bill includes definitions important to its interpretation:

• Administrator: Refers to the head of the Small Business Administration.
• Covered Entity: Refers to any entity, state, or local government that receives funding or assistance from the SBA to carry out programs, but does not include individuals who receive loans or loan guarantees under the Small Business Act.

Overall Impact

The bill effectively aims to ensure that the SBA's resources and efforts remain focused on supporting small business concerns, rather than facilitating voter registration activities. This aligns with a broader interpretation of the SBA’s mission and intentions under federal law.

Relevant Companies

None found