Little Apple Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) has introduced the Fair Assistance and Impartial Treatment of Help (FAITH) in Small Business Act, a legislation aimed at ensuring that faith-based small businesses receive equal treatment and opportunities. The act seeks to allow these businesses to participate in U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans and programs, regardless of their religious status.

In a statement released on National Religious Freedom Day, Rep. Mann emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of faith-based businesses. He stated, "Excluding small businesses based on the owner’s religion is vehemently un-American and a violation of the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment." Rep. Mann continued, "Our nation was founded on the freedom to practice your religion without fear of persecution or exclusion. I'm proud to introduce the FAITH in Small Business Act, which will ensure that all small businesses are treated equally regardless of their religious beliefs. I will always fight to protect the religious liberties of Kansans and Americans."

The FAITH in Small Business Act aims to address the current exclusion of faith-based businesses from certain SBA lending and assistance programs. These programs currently deem businesses engaged in teaching, instructing, counseling, or indoctrinating religion or religious beliefs, whether in a religious or secular setting, as ineligible. The proposed legislation seeks to rectify this disparity and provide equal opportunities to all small businesses.

Rep. Mann, who serves on the House Small Business Committee, represents the First Congressional District of Kansas. In his district, there are over 200,000 small businesses, employing more than 80% of the district's workforce. The FAITH in Small Business Act aims to support and protect the interests of these businesses, ensuring their fair treatment and access to vital resources.

The introduction of this legislation reflects Rep. Mann's commitment to the economic growth and prosperity of small businesses in his district. By advocating for the inclusion of faith-based businesses in SBA programs, Rep. Mann ensures that all entrepreneurs have an equal chance to succeed, regardless of their religious beliefs.

For more details on the FAITH in Small Business Act, the full text of the legislation can be viewed [here](link). To learn more about Rep. Mann's dedication to the First Congressional District of Kansas, his Commitment to the Big First can be accessed [here](link). This legislation serves as a powerful step towards protecting the rights and liberties of faith-based small businesses, safeguarding the principles on which the United States was founded.