H.R. 1644 would require the Small Business Administration (SBA) to report annually to the Congress on agents that help small businesses to secure loans of up to $5 million that are guaranteed by the SBA under the 7(a) loan program. Agents include attorneys, consultants, and accountants that assist small businesses during the 7(a) loan application process. The report would include the number of agents assisting 7(a) loan applicants, the dollar amount of fees paid to agents, and the risk created by agents.
The costs of the legislation, detailed in Table 1, fall within budget function 370 (commerce and housing credit).