Bipartisan Senate duo looks to help more small businesses sell goods overseas

June 18, 2026 - 19:37

A bipartisan pair of lawmakers is set to introduce legislation this week designed to make it easier for small businesses to sell their products in foreign markets. Senators Angela Alsobrooks, a Democrat from Maryland, and Dave McCormick, a Republican from Pennsylvania, are behind the new bill, which focuses on expanding access to export loans.

The proposal seeks to address a common hurdle for smaller companies: the difficulty of securing financing to ship goods overseas. Many small firms lack the collateral or credit history needed for traditional trade financing, leaving them unable to compete with larger corporations that already have global supply chains. The bill would adjust existing loan programs to reduce barriers and streamline the application process.

Supporters argue that boosting small business exports is a practical way to strengthen the U.S. economy without adding to the federal deficit. By helping more companies reach international customers, the legislation could create jobs and reduce the trade imbalance. The senators are expected to highlight how this approach benefits both rural and urban economies, from Maryland's port cities to Pennsylvania's manufacturing towns.

The bill has drawn early praise from business advocacy groups, though its path through a divided Congress remains uncertain. For now, the focus is on building bipartisan momentum. If passed, the measure could give thousands of small businesses a new tool to grow beyond domestic borders.