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Export Support for Small Businesses: Streamlining the STEP Program

This act improves a program that helps small businesses export, by setting clear deadlines for applications and results. It ensures better communication with businesses and allows for flexible budget management. This means more small businesses can get help entering foreign markets, potentially leading to new jobs and economic growth.
Key points
Easier Grant Applications: Clear deadlines for application information (by March 31), submission (by May 31), and grant announcements (by August 31).
Improved Communication and Support: Unsuccessful applicants will receive recommendations to improve future applications. Successful applicants will get explanations for the awarded amount if different from requested.
Flexible Budget Management: States receiving grants can revise their budget plans after funds are disbursed, allowing for better adaptation to needs.
Increased Transparency and Oversight: The program will collect more detailed data on assisted businesses, including those owned by women, minorities, and in rural areas, to better assess effectiveness.
Program Reauthorization: The export support program for small businesses is extended through fiscal year 2026, ensuring continued long-term support for entrepreneurs.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_5221
Sponsor: Sen. Shaheen, Jeanne [D-NH]
Process start date: 2022-12-08
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

STEP Improvement Act of 2022

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_5221.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2022-12-08.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Easier Grant Applications: Clear deadlines for application information (by March 31), submission (by May 31), and grant announcements (by August 31).
  • Improved Communication and Support: Unsuccessful applicants will receive recommendations to improve future applications. Successful applicants will get explanations for the awarded amount if different from requested.
  • Flexible Budget Management: States receiving grants can revise their budget plans after funds are disbursed, allowing for better adaptation to needs.
  • Increased Transparency and Oversight: The program will collect more detailed data on assisted businesses, including those owned by women, minorities, and in rural areas, to better assess effectiveness.
  • Program Reauthorization: The export support program for small businesses is extended through fiscal year 2026, ensuring continued long-term support for entrepreneurs.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Shaheen, Jeanne [D-NH].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Economy