Skip to Content

Press Releases

Alford Bill to Provide Flexibility for SBA 504 Lending Passes House Small Business Committee

Washington, September 16, 2026

Today, the House Small Business Committee passed Congressman Mark Alford’s (MO-04) bipartisan 504 Program Level Flexibility Act, introduced with Representative Lateefah Simon (CA-12). The legislation would give the Small Business Administration (SBA) additional flexibility to meet increased demand for 504 loans that help small businesses make long-term investments in facilities, equipment, and expansion.

Read the full text of the 504 Program Level Flexibility Act here.

The bill allows the SBA Administrator to increase 504 loan commitments up to 115 percent of the annual authorization level if the agency determines demand could exceed that limit. The authority may be used once per fiscal year, and SBA must notify Congress at least 30 days before exercising it.

Watch Congressman Alford’s remarks in support of his legislation here or by clicking the image above.

“The 504 loan is one of the most important tools we have to help small businesses make long-term investments in their future,” said Congressman Alford. “As we work to bring manufacturing back to the United States and strengthen our domestic supply chains, demand for 504 financing is rising. This bill gives the SBA limited flexibility to meet that demand while maintaining congressional oversight. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort with Representative Simon.”

The legislation is part of a broader effort to expand access to SBA financing for small businesses and manufacturers. Congressman Alford’s STRONG Act would increase maximum loan sizes in the SBA’s 7(a) and 504 programs, while the Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act would further increase lending limits for small manufacturers seeking to purchase equipment, expand facilities, reshore production, and create jobs in the United States.

The 504 Program Level Flexibility Act now advances from the House Small Business Committee.

###