WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) today spoke on the Senate floor about Idaho small businesses in honor of National Small Business Week.

“During this year’s National Small Business Week, I want to take this opportunity to recognize the resilience and courage of small businesses throughout the Gem State, and encourage Idahoans to continue to support the local shops, restaurants, and businesses that make our communities vibrant,” said Risch.

Referencing stalled negotiations over further COVID relief for small businesses, Risch said, “I firmly believe that small business relief is a shared bipartisan priority. Here in the Senate, we will continue to work to deliver relief to Idaho’s small businesses so that we can get back on the path to recapturing the unprecedented prosperity our economy provided before this crisis began.”

To watch Senator Risch's remarks, click the video below:

To watch on YouTube, click here.

To download the video file, click here.

Below are Risch’s full remarks, as prepared for delivery:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of National Small Business Week.

Idaho’s small businesses are the engine that powers our state’s economy. They not only provide us with goods and services, local jobs, and growth opportunities, but with immeasurable community value.

With the onset and spread of COVID-19, this year has presented Idaho’s business owners with challenges not seen in our lifetime.

Even under normal circumstances, business ownership takes remarkable courage and commitment. With the pandemic, the challenges associated with entrepreneurship have increased dramatically.

Throughout 2020, Idaho’s small businesses have shown tremendous determination as they’ve strived to serve their customers and keep their doors open to people in their communities.

During this year’s National Small Business Week, I want to take this opportunity to recognize the resilience and courage of small businesses throughout the Gem State, and encourage Idahoans to continue to support the local shops, restaurants, and businesses that make our communities vibrant.

I firmly believe that small business relief is a shared bipartisan priority. Here in the Senate, we will continue to work to deliver relief to Idaho’s small businesses so that we can get back on the path to recapturing the unprecedented prosperity our economy provided before this crisis began.

Idahoans are set apart by their grit, self-reliance, and their deep commitment to community. I am constantly reminded of this – and proud of it – when I see Idaho’s small businesses enduring and supporting one another through these uncertain times.

Thank you.

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