Roger Williams: “I thank our ranking member and our chairwoman for their leadership. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the…”

“I thank our ranking member and our chairwoman for their leadership. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Veteran Entrepreneurship Training Act of 2021, which equips transitioning servicemembers with resources to become entrepreneurs. In Congress, it is my greatest privilege to represent our military servicemembers and veterans in the 25th District of Texas, and I am honored to fight on their behalf in Washington. I am proud to have led this bipartisan bill with my Democratic colleague and my friend, Mr. Schneider. Our bill codifies the Boots to Business Program for 5 years. The Boots to Business Program is a 2-day, in-person entrepreneurship program offered by the Small Business Administration that provides transitioning servicemembers and military spouses information about business ownership and self-employment. While serving in the military, our servicemembers learned how to make sound decisions in chaotic environments. Research has shown that servicemembers' unique skill sets prepare them to own and operate their own business. Every year more than 200,000 servicemembers make the transition from military to civilian life, and it is critical that we assist their transition and provide them with the tools they need to be successful in whatever they endeavor next. This week is National Veterans Small Business Week, making it the perfect time for Congress to pass this bill and empower our veteran entrepreneurs.…”