SC New York News

U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19) introduced the Rural Innovation and Small Business Expansion (RISE) Act today in Binghamton, NY, aiming to expand opportunities for rural entrepreneurship across Upstate New York. The bill was introduced alongside Bennie Thompson (D-MS-2).

Reports indicate that many rural businesses face challenges such as limited access to capital, ongoing labor shortages, and difficulties in accessing new markets and customers. The bipartisan bill proposes a partnership between the Small Business Administration, the Appalachian Regional Commission, and the Delta Regional Authority to address these issues by promoting and expanding critical rural entrepreneurship opportunities and providing tailored solutions for rural small business owners.

"Small businesses are the backbone of our economy," said Rep. Molinaro. "But with today’s economic conditions, they’re in trouble. As a member on the House Small Business Committee, I’ve worked to raise the voices of Upstate New York small businesses in Washington and now I’m introducing legislation that directly responds to issues they’re facing. Rural small business owners need tailored solutions, and my bipartisan bill delivers the specialized assistance they need to thrive."