House Small Business Committee Chairman Roger Williams (R-TX) this morning released 1-year extension of of the SBIR/STTR programs.  This bill includes no programmatic changes to the programs, and would simply push the expiration date from 2025 to 2026.

This new legislation comes as negotiations continue between the “6 corners” (Majority & Minority in each of the House and Senate Small Business Committees, and the House Science Committee) to come to an agreement  on a long-term SBIR/STTR extension.  The Democrats and Republicans have each released competing bills and are far apart.  Since it appears unlikely they will come to an agreement before September 30, a continuing resolution to keep the program going while talks continue would be a welcome relief to small businesses who participate in the program.

The bill has bipartisan in the House, with House Small Business Committee Ranking Member Velazquez (D-NY), House Science Committee Chair Babin (R-TX), and House Small Business Committee Ranking Member Lofgren (D-CA) all cosponsoring.  In order to pass, it will also need to be taken up by the Senate. We hope that both chambers quickly pass this common-sense measure to extend the programs, and give Congress the time it needs to come to an agreement on a long-term bill.

SBTC applauds Chair Williams, Ranking Member Velazquez, Chair Babin, and Ranking Member Lofgren taking the initiative in moving forward to ensure these vital innovation programs do not lapse while negotiations continue.

Follow the links below to read Chairman Williams’ press release and bill text: