I started today's video blog by mentioning the famous “Join or Die” cartoon Ben Franklin used to rally the American colonies together during the Revolutionary War. Even though the phrase might be a little severe, I think it's a good jumping-off point in explaining the CREED Act, and asking for your support in getting Congress to pass this much-needed bill. Read my blog as it appeared on the 504 Blog and take a look at my video below to find out how you can help us (no oath-swearing involved, I promise).
Okay, so the phrase “JOIN, or DIE” may be a little severe, but I want to use it as a jumping-off point to talk about some small business legislation that needs our support. In a blog post from last month, I explained that the CREED Act is working its way through Congress and will reinstate the SBA 504 refinance program if it becomes law. Whether or not you’re familiar with the 504 refi program or the CREED Act, supporting its passage on Capitol Hill is a no-brainer for several very strong reasons.
Watch the video below to hear me explain why this bill deserves your support and how it will benefit small business owners (the primary job creators in our economy)…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AJ2wRn6GMY
If you agree that my reasoning makes sense and the CREED Act needs our support, here are a few next steps:
[ONE] There’s a frequently-asked-questions section on our website about the CREED Act, so you can get a little more acquainted with it. Go here to read more.
[TWO] If you can spare 60 seconds or so, you can send an email (and even an actual letter) to your representatives in Congress. Here’s a message I drafted you can use:
RE: Please Support the CREED Act (S.289/H.R.1240)
I’m writing to kindly ask for your support of the CREED Act that has been introduced by Senators Mary Landrieu (D) and Johnny Isakson (R), as well as Representatives Judy Chu (D) and Tom Petri (R). This legislation will reinstate a debt refinance program for small businesses that was allowed to expire last September, just as it was gaining momentum. It’s a budget-neutral program that will allow small business owners to create and retain jobs. Before its expiration last year, over 2,700 small business owners availed themselves of this opportunity, but only about $2.5 billion of the $15 billion authorized for the program were used.
Given the fiscal challenges and high unemployment our nation is still facing, the CREED Act is a sensible, budget-neutral (no-cost) measure that every member of Congress should support. It’s imperative that Congress enact this legislation to help small businesses continue providing jobs to grow our economy.
Please copy the above text and then go here to send an email to your elected official(s). After you type your zip code in the box, you’ll be able to paste your text and then preview the email before sending. For even greater impact, there’s an option to send an actual letter for a small fee, if you’re so inclined.
[THREE] Share this with others who will also see the value and necessity in supporting and passing this legislation. Email them the link, post this blog to your social media feeds, use word-of-mouth — whatever you see fit to do will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for reading, watching, sharing, and joining us in support of the CREED Act. I’m thankful for the continued support of folks like you, and I’d love to hear more about what you’re seeing on the small business front these days. Leave a comment below or email me at ChrisHurn@MercantileCC.com.
Dedicated to Your Continued Success,
-Chris
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