U.S. Reps. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Paul Cook (R-CA) last week introduced legislation to allow veteran-owned small businesses to apply for and receive government surplus or excess property.
Currently, the General Service Administration’s (GSA) excess federal property program is available to businesses owned by minorities and veterans service organizations.
H.R.2221, the Veterans Small Business Enhancement Act of 2015, would expand eligibility to small businesses owned by veterans.
"Our veterans deserve every opportunity to achieve the American Dream that they fought for," Duckworth said. "This legislation will help veteran-owned small businesses grow, and allow some of our country's most talented workers to succeed and create jobs. I look forward to working with members of Congress from both sides of the aisle to pass this important legislation for our veterans."
It is estimated that GSA’s excess federal property program saved the U.S. government $200 million in 2013. The legislation would create more savings for taxpayers.
“This bill will not only give veteran entrepreneurs an extra opportunity to succeed and grow their businesses, but will save taxpayers money,” Cook said. “When the federal government disposes of unclaimed excess property, this bill will allow it to go to veteran businesses where it can be put back to use. This commonsense bipartisan bill grows our economy, helps create jobs and gives a hand up to our nation’s heroes.”
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