Senate Bill 166 Summary

• Establishes the small business assistance team consisting of representatives from the lieutenant governor's office, secretary of state, and seven state departments (workforce development, labor, state revenue, local government finance, environmental management, transportation) plus the small business ombudsman and Purdue University technology assistance program.

• Team must meet at least twice yearly and shall coordinate state efforts to assist small businesses, serve as a one-stop point of contact, help access capital and financing, identify tax incentives and grants, streamline permitting processes, and maintain a website with state resources.

• State agencies must designate employees to assist the team and serve as liaisons upon request from the small business assistance team.

• Team cannot refuse assistance or information based on an individual's income, credit history, credit score, employment history, or criminal history.

• Team must submit an annual report by November 1 to the legislative council detailing activities and recommending legislation to improve state support for small business growth.