Extreme Disappointment
This press release just in: Heavy-hitting Democrats-- and one independent -- "express extreme disappointment at the Bush Administration's failure to help women-owned firms gain equal access to federal contracts under a law enacted seven years ago."
Those signing the letter include Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee Chairman John Kerry (D-Mass.); his colleague on the Armed Services Committee, Chairman Carl Levin (D-Mich.); and Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee Chairman Joseph Lieberman (I-Conn.).
The press release said that Sens. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Benjamin Cardin (D-Md.) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) joined them.
At issue is a proposed rule by officials at the Small Business Administration for the Women's Procurement Program, which was begun by Congress in 2000 to create set-asides to help women-owned businesses compete for federal contracts. Congressional critics said the rule far understates the breadth of need.
"Despite repeated bipartisan calls for action, the Bush Administration has failed to implement this program over the last seven years, costing women-owned businesses an estimated $6 billion in lost potential revenue," the press release said.
Assuming for a moment the Democrats' contention is correct, is it possible they're emphasizing the depth of their ire to help their party along in the coming election? It feels like I've been seeing both sides doing those sorts of things, but who knows?
Government Inc. will try to find out more. All help and thoughts welcome.
By Robert O'Harrow |
February 5, 2008; 7:00 AM ET
small business
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Posted by: cyclist11 | February 15, 2008 2:31 PM
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As time goes on I get more cynical. I don't believe any House, Senate or Executive Branch member/staffer ever speaks or writes the 'whole truth' about anything.
It seems there is finger pointing involving just about everything done in our nations capitol.
I really think all the members up there, be they Democrat, Republican or Indenpendent are not fit to be called representatives of the people. They watch out for their political hind ends first and the Americans lastly.
I'm sorry for, and didn't believe I would ever have this much animosity towards the leaders of this great nation. But, for the most part, they have broken their trust.