Small Business Impact During the Government Shutdown                          

Dear Texans,

As you are likely aware, a government shutdown began at 12:00 AM on Wednesday, October 1^st, after funding for the federal government expired. I voted for a clean funding extension to keep the government open for the American people. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats voted against the measure, causing it to fail and forcing critical federal operations to lapse.

While many essential services will continue, several federal programs directly supporting America’s job creators have been affected. I want to ensure you are aware of what this means for our small business community and how my office can assist you during this time.

Programs and Services Currently Suspended:

• New SBA Loans: The SBA has paused approval of new 7(a) and 504 loans, cutting off access to critical capital for small businesses seeking to expand or purchase equipment. 
• SBA Support Centers: Most district offices, small business development centers, and partner programs operate at limited capacity or are temporarily closed. 
• Federal Contracting: Processing new small business contracts and certifications is on hold until government funding is restored. 
• Trade and Export Assistance: Export counseling and international trade support through SBA’s partner networks are paused. 

These disruptions come right after the SBA closed Fiscal Year 2025, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration, with record-high lending—84,400 loans totaling $44.8 billion—reflecting strong small business confidence across the country. Each day the shutdown continues, roughly 320 small businesses lose access to $170 million in SBA-guaranteed funding, creating uncertainty for employers, workers, and communities.

Services Remaining Operational:

• Disaster Loan Assistance: The SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience will continue processing and servicing disaster loans for businesses, homeowners, and renters impacted by declared disasters.

My office remains open and available to assist you throughout the shutdown. We can help connect you with local resources and provide updates as federal agencies resume operations.

Sincerely,

Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25)

Chairman, House Committee on Small Business