CNNMoney; By: Sharon McLoone

An emergency loan program designed to shore up struggling-but-viable small businesses will open for applications in mid-June, the Small Business Administration announced Monday....

Senator Mary Landrieu, D-La., the chair of the Senate's small business committee, joined Mills in a small press conference after the public speech. Landrieu told reporters that it's a top priority for the committee and the agency to determine why 50% of the nation's banks aren't partnering with the SBA. The SBA itself does not directly loan money, but works with partner banks to offer government-backed loans.

"I would love to see any small business owner just walk around the corner to their local bank and say they're looking to expand their business," she said. "That bank should ask the SBA - would you be a partner with me?" Landrieu also said that finding a better health care solution for small businesses is a top priority for her.

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