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Congress·Reported·3 months ago

Opens federal microloans to Northern Mariana Islands small businesses

Also known as: Northern Mariana Islands Small Business Access Act

Legislative Progress

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Review
House
Senate
President

Key Points

  • Adds the Northern Mariana Islands to a federal microloan program so local small businesses can apply
  • Loans are small, often up to about $50,000, offered through local nonprofits that also give coaching
  • The funding pie is split among 56 places instead of 55, so others may see a tiny share change
  • Goal is to help island businesses grow and create local jobs, with no new taxes or fees
  • Also cleans up some wording in the law, with no big change for borrowers
Small BusinessEconomyLabor Employment

Milestones

5 milestones15 actions
Jan 26, 2026Senate

Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.

Jan 20, 2026House

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

Jan 20, 2026House

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H929)

Jan 20, 2026

Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H929)

Jan 20, 2026House

DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3496.

Source Information

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

Northern Mariana Islands Small Business Access Act

Bill NumberHR 3496
Congress119th Congress
ChamberHouse of Representatives
Latest ActionPlaced on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 350.

Sponsor

Cosponsors

(3)
D: 3

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