HR 522119th CongressIn Committee

FAITH in Small Business Act

Introduced: Jan 16, 2025

Standard Summary

Comprehensive overview in 1-2 paragraphs

H.R. 522, the FAITH in Small Business Act, would codify into law a Small Business Administration (SBA) rule from January 19, 2021 titled “Ensuring Equal Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations in SBA's Loan and Disaster Assistance Programs.” By giving that rule the force and effect of law, the bill would ensure that faith-based organizations have equal access and treatment in SBA loan and disaster assistance programs, effectively protecting them from discrimination and ensuring participation on the same basis as other eligible entities. The bill does not include new funding or create new SBA programs; its primary effect is to constitutionalize a specific policy approach to faith-based organizations within existing SBA authorities.

Key Points

1Codifies the SBA rule “Ensuring Equal Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations in SBA's Loan and Disaster Assistance Programs” into law.
2The rule applies to SBA loan programs and disaster assistance programs.
3Establishes non-discrimination and equal-access protections for faith-based organizations in SBA programs.
4Converts a proposed rule from 2021 into binding federal law, giving it enforceable status.
5Does not specify new funding or program design changes beyond codifying the rule.

Impact Areas

Primary group/area affected: Faith-based organizations seeking SBA loans or disaster assistance, who would be guaranteed equal access and treatment.Secondary group/area affected: SBA program administrators and private lenders participating in SBA loan programs, who would need to implement and comply with the codified rule.Additional impacts: Potential changes in how religious groups can participate in federal assistance without altering the overall structure of SBA programs; potential compliance and reporting requirements to ensure adherence to the rule.

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