CEASE Act of 2025

# CEASE Act of 2025 Summary The CEASE Act would restrict the number of for-profit companies allowed to participate in the Small Business Administration's 7(a) lending program to a maximum of 16 at any time. The 7(a) program is one of the SBA's primary lending initiatives, where the federal government guarantees portions of loans that participating lenders make to small businesses. Currently, more companies participate in this program, so this bill would significantly reduce that number. The bill primarily affects small business lending companies and small business owners seeking loans.

Lenders would face stricter authorization requirements, while small business borrowers could potentially have fewer lending options available to them. Supporters of the bill likely argue that limiting participants would improve oversight and quality control, while critics might contend it could reduce competition and make it harder for small businesses to access affordable loans. **Current Status:** The bill has passed the House of Representatives and awaits action in the Senate.