News From Congresswoman
Nydia M. Velázquez
Representing New York's 12th Congressional District - Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens
Ranking Democratic Member, House Small Business Committee

For Immediate Release
September 7, 2004

CONTACT: Kate Davis, Allyson Ivins, 202-225-4038

MEDIA ADVISORY

House Small Business Committee Democrats to Release Small Business Index for 2nd Quarter of 2004
Report tracks economic environment facing small business

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-N.Y.), Ranking Member of the House Small Business Committee, will join her Democratic colleagues to release the Small Business Index (SBI) for the second quarter of 2004, a report measuring the current economic conditions facing the nation's 23 million small businesses.

This index tracks the economic environment for small business by measuring over 15 key indicators, including healthcare, energy, and retirement costs, among others. With the economy struggling to regain its strength, and job growth remaining below expectations, the SBI provides insight into several of the factors contributing to the slow recovery.

After reaching an all time high in 2000, last year's 2003 SBI represented a six-year low. The release of the 2004 SBI follows a brief period of increase in the index earlier this year.

Small businesses are the proven job creators - creating 3 out of every 4 new jobs, accounting for more than half of our GDP, and representing 99 percent of all employers. Given the vital role small firms play in the economy, the SBI allows small companies to assess the conditions and economic environment they currently face.

When and Where:

When: Thursday, September 9, 2004 at 10:00 a.m.

Where: House Radio and TV Gallery, the Capitol, H-321
**You must have valid press credentials to gain access**

Who: Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez, Ranking Democrat, House Small Business Committee
Democratic Members of the House Small Business Committee

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