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Washington, D.C. – Big news for family-owned businesses across America! The bipartisan Congressional Family Business Caucus has announced its new Co-Chairs: Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA) and Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY). This dynamic duo is set to lead the caucus in its mission to champion the vital role of family enterprises in the U.S. economy, kicking off with their first 2026 meeting on March 17, focusing on critical affordability strategies.
Why Family Businesses Are the Heartbeat of America
Often unseen in the headlines, family-owned businesses are the true engines of prosperity, job creation, and community stability. According to research, these enterprises contribute a staggering $7.7 trillion annually to the U.S. gross domestic product, providing 83.3 million jobs – that’s a massive 59 percent of the country’s private workforce! The Congressional Family Business Caucus, first established in 2023 with the support of Family Enterprise USA (FEUSA), serves as a crucial platform to educate legislators on the immense value these businesses bring.
Meet the New Co-Chairs
Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA): A Champion for Main Street Dreams
Representing California’s 46th congressional district since 2017, Rep. Correa brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the entrepreneurial spirit. Before his political career, he was an investment banker, real estate broker, and college instructor – hands-on roles that give him unique insight into the challenges and opportunities facing business owners. A past member of the Caucus, Rep. Correa is passionate about supporting the pathway to the middle class that family businesses provide.
“Our economy is driven by family businesses whose owners and employees are usually our neighbors,” said Rep. Correa. “My parents worked hard to give me the opportunity to reach the middle class and starting a family business provides the same possibility to millions of Americans. We need to make sure that family businesses continue to flourish across different industries, and the Family Business Caucus will work to help Main Street entrepreneurs achieve their American Dream.”
Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY): From Family Business to Capitol Hill
Rep. Tenney, who has represented upstate New York districts since 2016, also returns to the Caucus with a significant personal connection. She previously served as a co-chair and comes from a family business background, having been the co-owner and legal counsel to Mid-York Press, Inc., a commercial printing and manufacturing firm started by her grandfather in 1946. Her experience as an attorney and publisher of Tenney Media Group further solidifies her understanding of the business landscape.
“Family-owned businesses are the backbone of communities across the country, creating jobs, supporting local economies, and carrying on traditions that span generations,” stated Congresswoman Tenney. “As someone who helped run my family’s business, I understand the unique challenges these businesses face, from rising costs and workforce pressures to complex regulations and tax policy. I look forward to working with Congressman Correa and our colleagues in the Caucus to ensure family businesses have a strong voice in Congress and the policies they need to grow, compete, and continue supporting millions of American workers.”
Focusing on Affordability: The First 2026 Meeting
The Congressional Family Business Caucus is wasting no time. Their first meeting of 2026, themed “Pricing and Profits: Affordability Strategies for Family-Owned Businesses,” is scheduled for March 17 on Capitol Hill. Organized by Family Enterprise USA and Family Enterprise USA Action, this crucial gathering will feature:
- A panel of family business owners sharing real-world experiences.
- Discussions led by Pat Soldano (President, Family Enterprise USA) and John Gugliada (Director of Engagement, FEUSA).
- Highlights from the annual FEUSA survey.
- Legislative and political updates from the law and government affairs firm Brownstein.
- A forward-looking “What Now” presentation by renowned communications expert and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz.
Attendees will also have the invaluable opportunity to meet with their House Members and staff in their Capitol Hill offices, ensuring their concerns and insights are heard directly by those who shape policy.
A Stronger Voice for Family Enterprises
Pat Soldano, President of Family Enterprise USA, expressed enthusiasm for the new leadership: “We’re grateful to see Representatives Tenney and Correa co-chair the Congressional Family Business Caucus for the 119th Congress. We’re also excited to kick-off this year’s meetings with the theme of affordability strategies for family businesses. Our two co-chairs are intimately familiar with the struggles and unique challenges family-owned businesses face versus traditional corporations. We look forward to their leadership in helping family-owned businesses get their voices heard in Congress.”
With Reps. Correa and Tenney at the helm, the Congressional Family Business Caucus is poised to make a significant impact, ensuring that the needs and contributions of America’s family enterprises remain a top priority in legislative discussions. Stay tuned for more updates on their impactful work!
Source: Original Article
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