Thank you, Chair Landrieu, for holding this hearing today to discuss the barriers that continue to exist for our nation's underserved small businesses.

I think we need to have an accounting for each and every one of those.

Well, is that all relative? So, obviously, we have got to do a lot on all these programs.

We have an obligation here in the oversight capacity of this committee.

I think that is actually really important as kind of a long-term strategy here.

According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, minority-owned firms generate $1 trillion in economic output to the U.S. economy and create 9.5 million jobs.

So that probably should be adjusted and a different standard.

Even more astounding, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in January unemployment of African Americans was 15.7 percent, and 11.9 percent among Hispanics.

to exact responsibility on the part of the agencies, as well, not make it so optional

we have to aggressively pursue this, not only in this agency, in every agency with respect to how we deal with individuals and companies inappropriately using taxpayers' dollars.

the fact is that there were 14 ineligible firms that were determined by the GAO to be fraudulent

I think the committee deserves a response to the report, to the specific disposition of each and every firm or individual that was cited in the GAO report or any individual or firm that has been reported to SBA.

it is essential we make sure that all of the taxpayers' dollars are being spent efficiently and legally

Yes. Thank you all. Thank you both very, very much.

the bottom line is that those who are legitimate firms that should be eligible for these funds are not able to get them because somebody else is using them illegally.

I rise today, along with Senator Kerry, to re-introduce comprehensive spectrum reform legislation to modernize our nation's radio spectrum planning, management, and coordination activities. Taking this corrective action will allow us to…

I think the committee needs to have a response from the SBA on these issues.

What would you think about the average minority entrepreneur--and I would ask others, as well--on behalf of your constituencies, about how they view the SBA's lending track record?

we have to create an environment to make sure that we do not create any disincentives

Are these annual reviews required by law?

If you inappropriately use Federal dollars or access Federal programs illegally, then we obviously have to make sure that we take appropriate action.

Clearly, action is warranted and we have to reverse that culture, any inhibition that exists in taking proactive action, frankly.

We cannot relent on that.

We need to save this industry. They can be competitive, but they are facing enormous disadvantages, as we well know, from abroad and in particular China.

The industry has already assessed it is going to be a $2.1 billion effect on their industry.