The Bill
Small businesses running out of options may now be able to secure federal loans for the software they need to run day-to-day operations, thanks to Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI-1). Bergman voted yes on the Small Business Technological Advancement Act on June 24, joining an overwhelming bipartisan majority that sent the bill to the Senate.
Bergman voted for a bill that would allow the Small Business Administration (SBA) to use its 7(a) loan program. This is the agency's primary small business lending tool that covers the cost of software and cloud computing services for small businesses. That includes tools for payroll, accounting, human resources, sales, and inventory tracking. Business software powered by artificial intelligence would also qualify.
H.R. 915 was introduced on February 4, 2025 by Rep. Mark Alford (R-MO-4). It was referred to the House Small Business Committee, which approved it unanimously, 23–0, before it reached the full House floor.
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The Vote Breakdown
The measure passed with 205 Republicans and 208 Democrats voting in favor. Only four Republicans voted against it. Bergman did not break with his party.
The congressional voting record shows this was about as bipartisan as it gets. Of the 418 members who cast a vote, 414 voted yes. No Democrats voted against it.
The bill required a two-thirds majority to pass under a procedural rule that limits debate and amendments.
Bergman has represented Michigan's first District, which covers the Upper Peninsula and much of northern Lower Michigan, since 2017. He is currently serving his fifth term.
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