Congressman James Moylan made another push to reopen the US Small Business Administration Guam branch office. 

The delegate testified before the House Small Business Committee, saying the closure poses significant challenges for the island community. 

He says the SBA Office has been a cornerstone that provides disaster loans and grants and enables businesses to recover, rebuild and thrive.

“Transfer of responsibility to Hawaii SBA office, more than 3800 miles and five time zones away, poses many risks. The distance and time zone differences will lead to delays in service and limited accessibility for small businesses in Guam,” said Moylan. 

“I respectively urge this committee, Mr. Chairman, to ensure that every state and territory has the resources they need to thrive. Small businesses are the cornerstone of America. And we as Congress must take action to ensure that main street has the tools they need to succeed,” added Moylan. 

The SBA Guam branch office closed operations last month following plans to lay off 43% of its employees– a part of a larger move by the Trump administration to shrink the federal workforce.