ADMINISTRATION'S ECONOMIC PLAN ALLOWS SMALL BUSINESS TO PLAY BIG

	WASHINGTON - President Bush has unveiled an Economic Growth Package with an emphasis on small businesses and their importance to the American economy. In doing so, the President has delivered on his promise to aid small businesses, which create 70% of all jobs in America.  Over 25 million entrepreneurs and countless small business employees stand to benefit from this plan.  

	Assistance to small business will come mostly in the form of tax relief.  For example, current tax laws permit small businesses to write off up to $25,000 worth of equipment purchases as expenses.  President Bush's plan would increase this limit to $75,000 to encourage small business owners to buy increased amounts of technology, machinery, and other equipment needed to expand their business.  

	SBA Administrator Hector V. Barreto praises the Administration's pro-active approach in its efforts to support small business. "The President and his administration recognize the tremendous contributions of small business men and women to our overall economy," said Administrator Barreto. "This administration is working to ensure that entrepreneurs remain a vital part of the engine that drives our national economy."

	The Bush economic plan also provides relief for small businesses by proposing a repeal of the onerous death tax.  This action will provide assurance that a family-owned business will not suffer an overbearing tax burden or be forced to sell the family business, instead allowing it appropriately to be handed down within the family from one generation to the next.

	Overall, this economic package lowers the capital expenses and eases the tax burdens that thwart the daily productivity of the small business owner.  More money in the expense accounts of the small business owner means more leverage to create jobs, increase output and bolster a growing economy.

	For more information about all of the SBA's programs for small businesses, call the SBA Answer Desk at 1-800 U ASK SBA or TDD 704-344-6640, or visit the SBA's extensive Web site at http://www.sba.gov.