Washington, D.C. - U.S. Reps. Kurt Schrader (D-OR) and Vern Buchanan (R-FL) have announced that they will be holding a Small Business Committee field hearing in Sarasota, FL on Monday April 19, 2010. The hearing represents one of many bi-partisan efforts by the Congressmen to help American small businesses.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy,” said Schrader. “Throughout history small businesses have generated tremendous amounts of wealth for our economy, created much needed jobs, have been the drivers of new and innovative technologies, and are key to market success. This hearing will provide us with the information we need to help small businesses and small business owners succeed in a tough economy. With the information we obtain from this hearing we can then work to provide small businesses with the tools they need to retain their staffs, hire new employees, and expand their businesses.”

“Small businesses play a vital role in creating jobs and growing the economy,” said Buchanan. “This hearing will provide them with information on how to access the capital they need to sustain and grow their businesses. Small businesses will also have an opportunity to give feedback on how the federal government can better serve the small business community.”

Mr. Eric R. Zarnikow, Associate Administrator for Capital Access, will represent the Small Business Administration (SBA) at the hearing. The event will also feature several panelists including U.S. Chamber of Commerce Sr. Vice President William C. Miller, Sabal Palm Bank CEO Brian Hall, small business owner J.P. Orr, and business consultant Herbert Brill.

The hearing will take place at the Selby Auditorium on the campus of the University of South Florida in Sarasota, FL from 10:30 to noon. The hearing is free to attend, but space will be limited. If you would like to attend please click here to RSVP online or call 941.951.6643.