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Office of Rural Affairs Enhancement Act

12/4/2025, 3:38 AM

Summary of Bill HR 4549

The Office of Rural Affairs Enhancement Act, designated as H.R. 4549 in the 119th Congress, was introduced on July 21, 2025. The bill aims to enhance the functionality and effectiveness of rural affairs offices. Specific provisions and directives within the bill include measures to support rural development, address infrastructure needs in rural areas, and promote economic growth and sustainability in rural communities. Further details can be accessed through the official PDF version of the bill available at https://www.congress.gov/119/bills/hr4549/BILLS-119hr4549ih.pdf.

Congressional Summary of HR 4549

Office of Rural Affairs Enhancement Act

This bill requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) to use a competitive hiring process to select an assistant administrator for the Office of Rural Affairs. The assistant administrator must have experience (1) with rural affairs and issues relating to small businesses, and (2) providing development assistance to rural small businesses.

Additionally, the bill requires the office to host webinars and regional outreach events for rural small businesses.

The SBA must report annually about the office's activities.

Current Status of Bill HR 4549

Bill HR 4549 is currently in the status of Passed in House since December 1, 2025. Bill HR 4549 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on July 21, 2025.  Bill HR 4549's most recent activity was Received in the Senate. Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 282. as of December 2, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 4549

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
5
Democrat Cosponsors
2
Republican Cosponsors
3
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 4549

Primary Policy Focus

Commerce

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 4549

Office of Rural Affairs Enhancement Act
Office of Rural Affairs Enhancement Act
To amend the Small Business Act to clarify the responsibilities of the Office of Rural Affairs of the Small Business Administration, and for other purposes.

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