Bill 118 s 1372, also known as the Preventing SBA Assistance from Going to China Act of 2023, aims to prohibit the Small Business Administration (SBA) from providing any financial assistance, including loans and grants, to businesses located in China. The bill was introduced in response to concerns about the economic and national security implications of providing SBA assistance to Chinese businesses.
If passed, the bill would require the SBA to conduct thorough background checks on all applicants for financial assistance to ensure that they are not based in China or owned by Chinese entities. Additionally, the SBA would be required to report to Congress on a regular basis regarding any attempts by Chinese businesses to fraudulently obtain SBA assistance.
Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect American businesses and taxpayers from potential risks associated with providing financial assistance to Chinese entities. They believe that by preventing SBA assistance from going to China, the United States can safeguard its economic interests and national security.
Opponents of the bill, however, argue that it could have negative consequences for American businesses that have legitimate ties to China or rely on Chinese suppliers. They also raise concerns about the potential for discrimination against Chinese-owned businesses and the impact on US-China relations.
Overall, Bill 118 s 1372 represents a significant effort to address the complex issues surrounding economic and national security concerns related to providing SBA assistance to Chinese businesses. It is currently under consideration in Congress, where lawmakers are debating its potential impact and implications for US-China relations.