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In a landmark decision, the Delaware Legislature has passed a bill aimed at expanding protections for small businesses in the state. The bill, officially titled the Small Business Protection Act of 2025, comes as a response to the challenges faced by small businesses in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and aims to provide much-needed support to this vital sector of the economy.One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a small business ombudsman within the Delaware Department of State. The ombudsman will serve as a point of contact for small businesses seeking assistance with regulatory compliance, licensing, and other issues. This measure is intended to streamline the process for small businesses dealing with government regulations and ensure that they have a voice in the decision-making process.Additionally, the bill includes provisions for expanding access to financing for small businesses, including low-interest loans and grants. This will enable small businesses to access the capital they need to survive and thrive in the current economic climate. The bill also includes measures to support entrepreneurship and innovation, encouraging small businesses to be at the forefront of the state's economic recovery.Delaware Governor John Smith lauded the passage of the bill, calling it a "major victory for small businesses in our state." He emphasized the importance of supporting small businesses as the backbone of the state's economy, noting that they have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic and need additional support to rebound.The Small Business Protection Act of 2025 is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, and is expected to have a significant impact on the small business community in Delaware. Lawmakers hope that the bill will not only provide immediate relief to struggling businesses but also help to create a more favorable environment for small businesses to grow and thrive in the long term.