U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall, D-WV, voted this week in favor of a package of legislation that will help to modernize several key Small Business Administration (SBA) programs to better serve entrepreneurs in West Virginia and across the Nation - a population that includes a growing number of veterans, women, and seniors.

"As a former small businessman myself, I know that small business is big business in West Virginia and throughout our country," Rahall said. "These entrepreneurs are the drivers of our economy - they represent 99 percent of all employers, account for half of our gross domestic product, and create three out of every four new jobs nationwide," said Rahall. "The bills passed Monday will help to ensure that small businesses have access to the services they need to achieve this continued success."

Legislation passed by the House of Representatives includes H.R. 2359, the Small Business Entrepreneurial Development Programs Act of 2007. This bill will expand the role of Small Business Development Centers, targeting the most pressing economic challenges facing entrepreneurs today by addressing the rising costs of healthcare and energy, as well as regulatory burdens. The legislation also expands the SCORE program, which includes free business counseling, to ensure that services provided by the program reach entrepreneurs across the country.

In addition, the House passed H.R. 2366, the SBA Veterans' Programs Act of 2007, which creates additional Veterans Business Outreach Centers and offers business development services targeted to our Nation's veterans.

"It is essential that we continue equipping America's soldiers with the tools they need to start and operate their own businesses once they leave military service," Rahall said. "These Veterans' business programs have proven to be invaluable resources for those men and women who wish to enter the world of entrepreneurship after having bravely served our Nation."

The House also passed H.R. 2397, the SBA Women's Business Programs Act of 2007, which expands the reach of Women's Business Centers across the U.S., and increases services in underserved communities. The legislation ensures that resources are dedicated for strengthening centers and ensuring the future stability of the program.

"As I have often said, small businesses are the grease that keeps the wheels of our economy turning smoothly," Rahall said. "They create good jobs for West Virginia workers and produce a host of West Virginia products. They truly represent the American dream, and through this legislation, we are helping to bring that dream a little closer to reality for many hardworking West Virginians."