The U.S. Small Business Administration plays a vital role in enabling America’s entrepreneurs to start, grow and succeed. Through our wide array of services - loan guarantees, assistance for small businesses in federal contracting, and business counseling – the SBA has helped millions of individuals start and grow their small businesses.” This is a quote from the District Director of the SBA Santa Ana District Office, Adalberto Quijada.

While “fiscal cliff” negotiations continue, House Republicans are working to prevent tax increases for as many people as possible. We expect to be in session after Christmas to continue to structure responsible spending cuts that can prevent the fiscal cliff scenario. As 2012 comes to a close, all of us at the Small Business Committee wish you and yours happy holidays. Enjoy this time with family and friends. Here's to a healthy, prosperous 2013.

The threat of impending tax hikes is costing the U.S. economy already. A new survey by the National Federation of Independent Business revealed that small business confidence dropped sharply in November, and that most small firms have no plans to hire.