Washington, Jul 15 - The House Committee on Small Business’ Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology today held a hearing entitled “Improving Contracting Opportunities and Preventing Fraud for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses.”

During the hearing, the Subcommittee Members discussed U.S. government agencies’ veteran procurement programs and heard testimony on the steps that could be taken to ensure service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses are awarded federal contracts.  Veteran-owned businesses play an integral role in both the small business community and our national economy.  House Small Business Committee Republicans are committed to ensuring that our nation’s veterans have sufficient access to the capital and resources they need to take advantage of entrepreneurship opportunities. 

Congressman Aaron Schock (R-IL), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee, has condemned federal agencies’ failure to meet the Congressionally-established goal that three percent of all federal prime dollars go toward service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses. He also expressed his disappointment that reports of fraud continue to plague the Small Business Administration’s Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Program.

Congressman Schock stated, “Quite frankly, I am frustrated that Congress and federal agencies continue to talk in circles and make promises to eliminate fraud and abuse within this program while failing to meet the established goal of three percent. This Committee and this Congress have a responsibility to ensure that these programs and goals benefit their intended recipients.”

For video from today’s hearing, click here.