Ritchie Torres: “Formally authorizing the Department of Homeland Security's mentor-protege program will ensure the continued success of…”

“Formally authorizing the Department of Homeland Security's mentor-protege program will ensure the continued success of this important small business program. John Crosby, the famous conductor, once said, ``A mentor is a brain to pick, an ear to listen, and a push in the right direction.'' DHS is to be commended for recognizing that there are small businesses with novel technologies that want to help keep America secure, but may lack experience in the Federal marketplace and need a mentor to give them a push in the right direction. I thank the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. McEachin) for introducing this bill to help grow partnerships between small businesses and DHS. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 408. I yield back the balance of my time.”