Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

S.Res.71 - Authorizing expenditures by the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. (119th Congress)

Summary

Senate Resolution 71 authorizes expenditures by the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship from March 1, 2025, through February 28, 2027. It allows the committee to make expenditures from the Senate's contingent fund, employ personnel, and utilize services from other government departments or agencies. The resolution sets specific spending limits for different periods, including allocations for consultants and staff training.

Expected Effects

This resolution enables the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship to continue its operations. It ensures the committee has the necessary resources to conduct hearings, investigations, and other activities related to small businesses. The resolution also provides funding for staff training and expert consultants.

Potential Benefits

  • Supports oversight and investigation of issues affecting small businesses.
  • Provides resources for staff training, potentially improving the committee's effectiveness.
  • Allows for the hiring of consultants with specialized expertise.
  • Ensures the committee can fulfill its duties under the Standing Rules of the Senate.
  • Facilitates the committee's ability to contribute to informed policy-making related to small business.

Potential Disadvantages

  • The expenditures contribute to the overall federal budget, potentially increasing the national debt.
  • There is a risk of inefficient spending or misallocation of funds.
  • The use of consultants may lead to biased or politically motivated advice.
  • The resolution does not guarantee that the committee's activities will directly benefit all small businesses.
  • The authorized spending could be seen as excessive by some taxpayers.

Constitutional Alignment

The resolution aligns with Article I, Section 5 of the US Constitution, which grants each house of Congress the power to determine the rules of its proceedings. It also aligns with the implied powers necessary for Congress to carry out its legislative functions, as defined by Article I, Section 8. The resolution's focus on small business aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution's preamble.

Impact Assessment: Things You Care About

This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).