(Boston, March 19) – Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee Ranking Member Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement condemning President Trump’s Executive Order, announced on March 14, 2025, that seeks to gut vital government agencies, including the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA):  

“Dismantling the bipartisan Minority Business Development Agency, which has fostered growth and competitiveness for more than 50 years, would not just be wrong—it would be illegal. The President’s executive orders do not supersede our nation’s laws.  

“Minority-owned businesses, even with the same credit history, are less likely to receive loans than other businesses. Eliminating the MBDA would mean fewer resources for minority-owned businesses across the country. Since 2021, the Boston MBDA center has assisted 550 businesses in Massachusetts representing 2,800 jobs. 

“This administration’s priorities are clear: Rather than supporting our small business owners and entrepreneurs, President Trump signs executive orders to further his far-right playbook and undermine decades of work combating discrimination.  The administration must comply with the law and ensure that the MBDA is adequately resourced to meet the needs of business owners across the country.”

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