Joni Ernst: “Ranking Member Markey, I continue to want to work with you to find common ground and pass the SBIR reauthorization with…”

“Ranking Member Markey, I continue to want to work with you to find common ground and pass the SBIR reauthorization with bipartisan reforms, but the status quo will not work. I will not continue to allow China to win and let our warfighters lose. My INNOVATE Act will stand up to Beijing, invest in the best and the brightest, and ensure that America maintains our technological advantage. It is irresponsible to put this program on autopilot through a permanent reauthorization, especially without sufficient safeguards to protect taxpayer funds from abuse. Make no mistake, Beijing is clinking their glasses at the thought of the status quo continuing. After all, we are talking about America's national security. I am willing to work with the Senator on any of the reforms on the table in both my bill and in the Senator's to find a commonsense solution and one that will work for both sides. However, as the proposal stands, on behalf of our warfighters and our Nation's security, I object.”