Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Joni Ernst announced on Mar. 11 that she is urging Congress to support small businesses in the pet sector by passing her bipartisan Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act.
The proposed legislation aims to help small manufacturers, such as Blue-9 Pet Products in Maquoketa, Iowa, by doubling the loan limits under the Small Business Administration’s 7(a) and 504 programs from $5 million to $10 million. Ernst said this would allow these businesses to modernize, expand, and train new workers.
"Today folks, we are talking about our beloved pets and the entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports the ever-growing pet industry," Ernst said during her remarks. She highlighted that "pets are abundant in Americans’ lives, with around 57% of households owning at least one. In rural areas, this number is even higher: 71% of households have pets, and 47% report owning more than one animal." She also noted that spending on pets reached an estimated $157 billion in 2025—a record high and a 75% increase since 2018.
Ernst addressed challenges faced by small business owners in the pet economy, including access to capital, regulatory hurdles, and workforce recruitment. She said, "We can start by passing my Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act... I am grateful to my colleagues... for their bi-paw-tisan support. This bill has already passed the House, and I will continue to work to pass it through our Senate chamber." The senator also referenced recent tax changes benefiting small business employees and owners.
The Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee plays a key role in supporting informed decision-making on national fiscal priorities according to its official website. The committee offers Congress comprehensive policy options on federal budget components according to its official website, features Lindsey Graham as chairman and Jeff Merkley as ranking member according to its official website, contributes to the congressional budget process via resolutions and reconciliation instructions according to its official website, was established through the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 according to its official website, and provides nonpartisan budgetary analysis through oversight of the Congressional Budget Office according to its official website.
Ernst concluded her remarks by thanking witnesses for their participation: "We look forward to your testimony and hearing about your important work and the valuable services you provide to our communities."
