The House Small Business Committee has unanimously passed the AI for Main Street Act, a bipartisan bill led by Oversight, Investigations, and Regulations Subcommittee Chairman Mark Alford. The legislation, also co-led by Rep. Hillary Scholten of Michigan’s 3rd District, aims to help small businesses evaluate and adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. It directs the Small Business Administration’s Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) to provide guidance, training, and outreach to support small businesses with AI adoption. The bill expands on programs like America’s SBDC AI U initiative to increase access to AI resources across the country.
Mark Alford has represented Missouri’s 4th District in Congress since 2023, succeeding Vicky Hartzler. He was born in Baytown, Texas in 1963 and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1988 with a BA. Alford currently lives in Lake Winnebago.
In remarks supporting the legislation, Congressman Alford said: “The AI revolution—with all of its potential benefits and risks—is here. The AI for Main Street Act ensures small businesses are not left behind by giving them the tools they need to evaluate and adopt artificial intelligence. This bill will provide Main Street with the resources, education, and training needed to be at the forefront of this wave of innovation. I’m proud to see it pass the House Small Business Committee and appreciate my colleagues for their support.”
Rep. Scholten added: “This legislation is about building an economy and a future that works for everyone, from Silicon Valley all the way to Main Street. I am thrilled that the AI for Main Street Act passed out of committee today and I look forward to getting it all the way across the finish line.”
House Small Business Committee Chairman Roger Williams commented: “Artificial intelligence has the power to make small businesses more efficient, competitive, and resilient, but only if they have the tools to use it. Representative Alford’s bill helps entrepreneurs harness that potential by providing the training and guidance they need to use these tools effectively. By empowering Main Street to embrace innovation, we’re keeping America’s small businesses strong, competitive, and ready for the future.”
