ushcc policy platform · businesses that, together ... debt and equity capital solutions for...
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2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2
The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) was founded on the notion that the
success of the American economy is inextricably linked to the success of the Hispanic business
community. We firmly believe that, when we work together to create prosperity for Hispanic
entrepreneurs and the Hispanic workforce, the entire country benefits. That is why we are deeply
proud to represent this ambitious and entrepreneurial community as the USHCC President & CEO.
The purpose of the 2019 Policy Platform is to outline the policy positions of the USHCC and highlight
the economic impact of the Hispanic community. In America, there are 4.37 million Hispanic-owned
businesses that, together, contributed over $700 billion dollars to the U.S. economy last year.1 Hispanic
people are starting businesses at three times the rate of the general population, and half of all new
Hispanic entrepreneurs are women.2 Overall, Hispanics in the U.S. have a purchasing power of $1.5
trillion dollars and comprise 17 percent of the American workforce.3 4
Despite the economic contributions of the Hispanic community, Hispanic Business Enterprises face
(HBEs) undue barriers that create challenges to starting, running, and scaling a business. Researchers
at the Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative estimate that, if Hispanic-owned businesses scaled as
quickly as non-minority-owned businesses, there would be an additional $1.47 trillion in the American
economy.
The USHCC is committed to closing the $1.47 trillion opportunity gap for the betterment of the
American economy. When our legislators craft policies that support the Hispanic population, jobs are
created. We have better goods and services. We are more competitive as a nation. On behalf of the
Hispanic business community, we look forward to working with our leaders in government to build a
stronger economy and stronger country.
Respectfully,
Ramiro Cavazos Carmen Castillo
President & CEO Chairwoman of the Board of Director
United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
ACCESS, MANAGEMENT, AND CONTROL OF CAPITAL ……………........................…… 3
EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT………….........................................… 6
HEALTH ………………………………………………………......................................................… 8
IMMIGRATION ……………………………………………………….......................................…… 10
INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND COMMERCE …………………....................................…… 13
TECHNOLOGY AND INFRASTRUCTURE ………………….............................................… 15
REFERENCES ….…………………………………………………………………..............................… 17
TABLE OF CONTENTS
3
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2
The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) was founded on the notion that the
success of the American economy is inextricably linked to the success of the Hispanic business
community. We firmly believe that, when we work together to create prosperity for Hispanic
entrepreneurs and the Hispanic workforce, the entire country benefits. That is why we are deeply
proud to represent this ambitious and entrepreneurial community as the USHCC President & CEO.
The purpose of the 2019 Policy Platform is to outline the policy positions of the USHCC and highlight
the economic impact of the Hispanic community. In America, there are 4.37 million Hispanic-owned
businesses that, together, contributed over $700 billion dollars to the U.S. economy last year.1 Hispanic
people are starting businesses at three times the rate of the general population, and half of all new
Hispanic entrepreneurs are women.2 Overall, Hispanics in the U.S. have a purchasing power of $1.5
trillion dollars and comprise 17 percent of the American workforce.3 4
Despite the economic contributions of the Hispanic community, Hispanic Business Enterprises face
(HBEs) undue barriers that create challenges to starting, running, and scaling a business. Researchers
at the Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative estimate that, if Hispanic-owned businesses scaled as
quickly as non-minority-owned businesses, there would be an additional $1.47 trillion in the American
economy.
The USHCC is committed to closing the $1.47 trillion opportunity gap for the betterment of the
American economy. When our legislators craft policies that support the Hispanic population, jobs are
created. We have better goods and services. We are more competitive as a nation. On behalf of the
Hispanic business community, we look forward to working with our leaders in government to build a
stronger economy and stronger country.
Respectfully,
Ramiro Cavazos Carmen Castillo
President & CEO Chairwoman of the Board of Director
United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
ACCESS, MANAGEMENT, AND CONTROL OF CAPITAL ……………........................…… 3
EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT………….........................................… 6
HEALTH ………………………………………………………......................................................… 8
IMMIGRATION ……………………………………………………….......................................…… 10
INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND COMMERCE …………………....................................…… 13
TECHNOLOGY AND INFRASTRUCTURE ………………….............................................… 15
REFERENCES ….…………………………………………………………………..............................… 17
TABLE OF CONTENTS
3
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Ensure Equitable Access to Capital
Accessing capital is one of the greatest challenges faced by business owners,
especially owners of small and mid-sized firms. Ninety percent of small
business owners in the United States believe that the inability to access 5capital hinders their success. Big banks approve only 2 out of 10 loan
requests from small business owners, and unregulated alternative 6lenders sometimes engage in predatory practices.
Challenges to capital access are exacerbated for minority business
owners. According to the Minority Business Development Agency
(MBDA), minority-owned businesses are less likely to receive loans 7than non-minority-owned businesses with the same credentials.
Minority-owned firms that do acquire loans receive 57 percent less than 8non-minority businesses.
It is imperative that every capital provider commit to equitable debt and
equity investment for all businesses and entrepreneurs, regardless of race,
gender, sexual orientation, or disability. The USHCC seeks to promote both
debt and equity capital solutions for Hispanic business enterprises (HBEs).
Increase Access to a Range of Diverse Lenders
All capital providers have a role to play in expanding responsible access to
capital. This includes large and small banks, corporations, pension funds, insurance companies,
community-owned credit providers, credit unions, venture capital funds, private equity funds, angel
investors, family offices, and more. We encourage all capital providers to boldly support the growth of
HBEs that are part of their supply chains, communities, and business networks. The USHCC stands
ready to work with all institutions to ensure that capital and opportunities are flowing to Hispanic
business owners. Additionally, we support the development of more minority-owned
and minority-focused financial institutions.
90%
Access, Management, and Control of Capital
of small business
owners in the
United States
believe that the
inability to access
capital hinders
their success.
57%
Utilize the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
The USHCC supported the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of
2017 because it included a 20 percent pass-through 9deduction for small businesses. This provision of
the new tax code increases cash flow for small
business owners, helping businesses to scale. The
USHCC aims to work with the federal government
to help Hispanic business owners comply with the
new tax code and take advantage of the small
business deduction.
In addition, the USHCC is strongly supportive of the
opportunity zones created by the Tax Cuts and Jobs
Act. The zones create tax incentives to encourage
investment in businesses and real estate located in
distressed communities. According to researchers,
there are more than $6 trillion dollars in unrealized
capital gains between individual and corporate 10investors. We encourage investors to take
advantage of designated opportunity zones and
invest in distressed areas, all while remaining
committed to the needs of local communities.
We also encourage policymakers to consider the detriments of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Acts and take
appropriate action to reign in the rising deficit and ensure that tax burdens are lifted for families of all
income levels.
Help Hispanic Business Owners Leverage Federal Resources
We encourage Hispanic business owners to participate in government and public-private initiatives
that facilitate both capital access and effective management of capital. For example, the Small
Business Administration (SBA), U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the Minority Business
Development Agency (MBDA) have a variety of programs that can be leveraged by business owners.
Through the SBA, small businesses can connect with reliable lenders, receive an “SBA credit score” that
can help them qualify for loans, and take advantage of streamlined processing for loans under 11$350,000. The SBA also has regional Small Business Development Centers, some of which are
housed in Hispanic chambers of commerce across the country. For example, through the small
business development center in the Orange County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, business owners
can access technical assistance and find funding for their businesses.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury provides access to microloans and flexible financing for small
businesses. Through the Community Development and Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund), the
Treasury provides loans, financial services, and technical assistance to underserved populations. The
USHCC seeks to address the underutilization of these programs by Hispanic business owners. We
encourage federal agencies to develop initiatives to increase Hispanic business participation, such as
Spanish-language resources and outreach to our nationwide network of local Hispanic chambers.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Minority-ownedfirms that do acquire loans receive 57 percent less than non-minority businesses.
4 5
Ensure Equitable Access to Capital
Accessing capital is one of the greatest challenges faced by business owners,
especially owners of small and mid-sized firms. Ninety percent of small
business owners in the United States believe that the inability to access 5capital hinders their success. Big banks approve only 2 out of 10 loan
requests from small business owners, and unregulated alternative 6lenders sometimes engage in predatory practices.
Challenges to capital access are exacerbated for minority business
owners. According to the Minority Business Development Agency
(MBDA), minority-owned businesses are less likely to receive loans 7than non-minority-owned businesses with the same credentials.
Minority-owned firms that do acquire loans receive 57 percent less than 8non-minority businesses.
It is imperative that every capital provider commit to equitable debt and
equity investment for all businesses and entrepreneurs, regardless of race,
gender, sexual orientation, or disability. The USHCC seeks to promote both
debt and equity capital solutions for Hispanic business enterprises (HBEs).
Increase Access to a Range of Diverse Lenders
All capital providers have a role to play in expanding responsible access to
capital. This includes large and small banks, corporations, pension funds, insurance companies,
community-owned credit providers, credit unions, venture capital funds, private equity funds, angel
investors, family offices, and more. We encourage all capital providers to boldly support the growth of
HBEs that are part of their supply chains, communities, and business networks. The USHCC stands
ready to work with all institutions to ensure that capital and opportunities are flowing to Hispanic
business owners. Additionally, we support the development of more minority-owned
and minority-focused financial institutions.
90%
Access, Management, and Control of Capital
of small business
owners in the
United States
believe that the
inability to access
capital hinders
their success.
57%
Utilize the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
The USHCC supported the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of
2017 because it included a 20 percent pass-through 9deduction for small businesses. This provision of
the new tax code increases cash flow for small
business owners, helping businesses to scale. The
USHCC aims to work with the federal government
to help Hispanic business owners comply with the
new tax code and take advantage of the small
business deduction.
In addition, the USHCC is strongly supportive of the
opportunity zones created by the Tax Cuts and Jobs
Act. The zones create tax incentives to encourage
investment in businesses and real estate located in
distressed communities. According to researchers,
there are more than $6 trillion dollars in unrealized
capital gains between individual and corporate 10investors. We encourage investors to take
advantage of designated opportunity zones and
invest in distressed areas, all while remaining
committed to the needs of local communities.
We also encourage policymakers to consider the detriments of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Acts and take
appropriate action to reign in the rising deficit and ensure that tax burdens are lifted for families of all
income levels.
Help Hispanic Business Owners Leverage Federal Resources
We encourage Hispanic business owners to participate in government and public-private initiatives
that facilitate both capital access and effective management of capital. For example, the Small
Business Administration (SBA), U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the Minority Business
Development Agency (MBDA) have a variety of programs that can be leveraged by business owners.
Through the SBA, small businesses can connect with reliable lenders, receive an “SBA credit score” that
can help them qualify for loans, and take advantage of streamlined processing for loans under 11$350,000. The SBA also has regional Small Business Development Centers, some of which are
housed in Hispanic chambers of commerce across the country. For example, through the small
business development center in the Orange County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, business owners
can access technical assistance and find funding for their businesses.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury provides access to microloans and flexible financing for small
businesses. Through the Community Development and Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund), the
Treasury provides loans, financial services, and technical assistance to underserved populations. The
USHCC seeks to address the underutilization of these programs by Hispanic business owners. We
encourage federal agencies to develop initiatives to increase Hispanic business participation, such as
Spanish-language resources and outreach to our nationwide network of local Hispanic chambers.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Minority-ownedfirms that do acquire loans receive 57 percent less than non-minority businesses.
4 5
Build a Diverse and Inclusive Workforce
ONE IN FOUR CHILDREN BORN IN THE UNITED STATESIS HISPANIC
Education andWorkforce Development
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
LATINAS
ARE TYPICALLY
PAID BETWEEN
42 61 AND CENTS FOR EVERY
DOLLAR PAID
TO WHITE,
NON-HISPANIC
MEN.
Diverse work environments facilitate innovative problem
solving and contribute to economic growth. Promoting
diversity is more than a moral imperative; it is an economic
necessity. The “American Melting Pot” offers U.S. companies
a distinct economic advantage by bringing together people
with unique perspectives and different backgrounds. The
USHCC supports legislation aimed at fostering a workforce
where women and minorities have equal opportunity to
succeed and excel.
The first step in building a diverse and inclusive workforce is
addressing wage gaps. Women in the workforce are paid, on
average, 80 percent of what their male colleagues in similar 13positions are paid. The gap is wider for Latina women.
Latinas are typically paid between 42 and 61 cents for every 14dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic men. If we are to build a
robust workforce, wage gaps must be completely eliminated.
It is equally important that workplace harassment is
eliminated. The USHCC supports policies that foster healthy
and productive work environments.
Studies by Scientific American demonstrate that diversity is
correlated with better corporate performance. Companies
with one or more women on the board deliver higher 15average returns on equity and better average growth.
Similarly, the relationship between racial/ethnic diversity and
financial performance is linear. When the leadership of an
organization is diverse and inclusive, the company is better
equipped to ensure diversity and inclusion at all levels.
6 7
Ensure Access to Excellent Education at Every Level
One in four children born in the United States is Hispanic; to invest in the education of Hispanic youth 12is to invest in the future of the American economy. The USHCC advocates for education policy that
prepares students for a competitive global workforce. Our leaders in government must increase
funding for schools in historically underserved areas and improve standards in educational curricula.
In addition, it is essential that
Hispanic students have access to
affordable higher education through
federally mandated initiatives such as
Pell Grants and student loan
subsidies. It is imperative that the
cost of higher education is reduced
to increase accessibility. The USHCC
supports minority-serving
scholarship programs such as TRIO
and Gear Up and encourages the
expansion of loan forgiveness
programs.
Emphasize STEM Education and Career & Technical Education
The UHSCC believes that preparing Hispanic students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and
math (STEM) will help increase participation in a growing workforce where Hispanics are severely
underrepresented. According to the Smithsonian Science Education Center, 2.4 million STEM jobs went
unfilled in 2018. At the same time, only 2.2 percent of Hispanic college graduates have earned a university
degree in a STEM field, and only 67 percent of Hispanic students have access to a full range of STEM
courses. To increase Hispanic representation in STEM, we must increase access to higher education and
create programs that both encourage Hispanic students to pursue STEM education and help them
graduate with a degree in the field.
The USHCC also advocates for
increased access to career and
technical education for Hispanics
seeking to further their careers with a
new skillset. Career and technical
training provides students with tangible
skills that translate directly into
employment in industries facing a
shortage of skilled workers.
2.4 million jobs STEMwent in 2018.unfilled
Build a Diverse and Inclusive Workforce
ONE IN FOUR CHILDREN BORN IN THE UNITED STATESIS HISPANIC
Education andWorkforce Development
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
LATINAS
ARE TYPICALLY
PAID BETWEEN
42 61 AND CENTS FOR EVERY
DOLLAR PAID
TO WHITE,
NON-HISPANIC
MEN.
Diverse work environments facilitate innovative problem
solving and contribute to economic growth. Promoting
diversity is more than a moral imperative; it is an economic
necessity. The “American Melting Pot” offers U.S. companies
a distinct economic advantage by bringing together people
with unique perspectives and different backgrounds. The
USHCC supports legislation aimed at fostering a workforce
where women and minorities have equal opportunity to
succeed and excel.
The first step in building a diverse and inclusive workforce is
addressing wage gaps. Women in the workforce are paid, on
average, 80 percent of what their male colleagues in similar 13positions are paid. The gap is wider for Latina women.
Latinas are typically paid between 42 and 61 cents for every 14dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic men. If we are to build a
robust workforce, wage gaps must be completely eliminated.
It is equally important that workplace harassment is
eliminated. The USHCC supports policies that foster healthy
and productive work environments.
Studies by Scientific American demonstrate that diversity is
correlated with better corporate performance. Companies
with one or more women on the board deliver higher 15average returns on equity and better average growth.
Similarly, the relationship between racial/ethnic diversity and
financial performance is linear. When the leadership of an
organization is diverse and inclusive, the company is better
equipped to ensure diversity and inclusion at all levels.
6 7
Ensure Access to Excellent Education at Every Level
One in four children born in the United States is Hispanic; to invest in the education of Hispanic youth 12is to invest in the future of the American economy. The USHCC advocates for education policy that
prepares students for a competitive global workforce. Our leaders in government must increase
funding for schools in historically underserved areas and improve standards in educational curricula.
In addition, it is essential that
Hispanic students have access to
affordable higher education through
federally mandated initiatives such as
Pell Grants and student loan
subsidies. It is imperative that the
cost of higher education is reduced
to increase accessibility. The USHCC
supports minority-serving
scholarship programs such as TRIO
and Gear Up and encourages the
expansion of loan forgiveness
programs.
Emphasize STEM Education and Career & Technical Education
The UHSCC believes that preparing Hispanic students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and
math (STEM) will help increase participation in a growing workforce where Hispanics are severely
underrepresented. According to the Smithsonian Science Education Center, 2.4 million STEM jobs went
unfilled in 2018. At the same time, only 2.2 percent of Hispanic college graduates have earned a university
degree in a STEM field, and only 67 percent of Hispanic students have access to a full range of STEM
courses. To increase Hispanic representation in STEM, we must increase access to higher education and
create programs that both encourage Hispanic students to pursue STEM education and help them
graduate with a degree in the field.
The USHCC also advocates for
increased access to career and
technical education for Hispanics
seeking to further their careers with a
new skillset. Career and technical
training provides students with tangible
skills that translate directly into
employment in industries facing a
shortage of skilled workers.
2.4 million jobs STEMwent in 2018.unfilled
Improve the Affordability of Healthcare for
Small Business Owners
In a recent survey conducted by the National Small Business
Association, 40 percent of small business owners stated that 16their greatest challenge was paying for healthcare. The
cost of healthcare is often excessively burdensome for small
business owners, and many small employer firms are
unable to provide healthcare for employees, forcing them to
hire part-time instead of full-time workers. The cost burden
of healthcare is even greater for minority business owners,
who are less likely to own scaled businesses. Rising medical
costs coupled with poor social determinants of health are
often devastating to Hispanic business enterprises.
It is essential that Hispanic business owners have access to
affordable and quality healthcare. According to the Small
Business Majority, more than 5.7 million small business
employees or self-employed entrepreneurs are enrolled in 17federal healthcare under the ACA. Two million of the
entrepreneurs that gained coverage were insured due to 18the Medicaid expansion. The ACA also helped small
business owners provide insurance to employees through
both the small business healthcare tax credit (for firms
with under 25 employees) and SHOP, the Small Business
Health Options Program (for firms with 25-50 employees).
It is imperative that these programs are continued and
adequately funded. Without insurance, unexpected
medical costs can shut down a small business.
Advance the Health of the Hispanic Workforce
Compared to the non-minority population, Hispanics in
the U.S. have limited access to quality care and unique
barriers to healthy livelihoods. Hispanic Americans are
less likely to have healthcare and more likely to suffer 19from conditions such as diabetes and obesity.
Such health discrepancies are caused, in part, by inadequate social determinants of health. These are
both quantitative and qualitative factors that determine a family's living conditions and, consequently, health. For example, zip code, income, education, occupation, and social norms are all important social
20determinants of health. The USHCC advocates for a holistic approach to improving health in the
Hispanic community. We encourage our leaders in government to increase access to affordable
healthcare and craft policies that improve social determinates of health for Hispanic families.
Health
40% of small
business owners
stated that their
greatest challenge
was paying for
healthcare.
Increase Access to Affordable andQuality Healthcare
The USHCC believes that a wide range of affordable
healthcare options—both public and
private—should be available to Hispanic families.
We support policies that reduce rising premiums,
lower inflated drug prices, increase market
competition between private healthcare providers,
and expand funding for federal healthcare
programs.
According to the United States Census Bureau, 16
percent of Hispanics in the United States are 21uninsured. In comparison, only 6 percent of the
non-minority population is without health
insurance. Eight percent of Hispanic children do not
have healthcare, compared to 4 percent non-22minority children. One hundred percent of
uninsured Hispanics said they went without health
coverage due to cost. Additionally, 24 percent of
Hispanics say they have no usual source of care,
and 26 percent say they have had no healthcare 23visits in the last 12 months.
Since the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA),
the Hispanic uninsured rate decreased more than
any other demographic. In 2010, 43.2 percent of
working-age Hispanic adults were uninsured. By 24 2016, this number fell to 24.8 percent. The ACA's
Medicaid expansion also improved coverage rates 25 for non-citizen Hispanic immigrants. As of 2018,
there were 4 million Hispanic individuals insured 26under the ACA. The USHCC calls for a bipartisan
effort to strengthen and improve the federal
healthcare system, ensure affordability, and expand
coverage for all Americans that lack the purchasing
power to enroll in private plans.
of Hispanics in the
United States are uninsured.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
16%
8 9
Improve the Affordability of Healthcare for
Small Business Owners
In a recent survey conducted by the National Small Business
Association, 40 percent of small business owners stated that 16their greatest challenge was paying for healthcare. The
cost of healthcare is often excessively burdensome for small
business owners, and many small employer firms are
unable to provide healthcare for employees, forcing them to
hire part-time instead of full-time workers. The cost burden
of healthcare is even greater for minority business owners,
who are less likely to own scaled businesses. Rising medical
costs coupled with poor social determinants of health are
often devastating to Hispanic business enterprises.
It is essential that Hispanic business owners have access to
affordable and quality healthcare. According to the Small
Business Majority, more than 5.7 million small business
employees or self-employed entrepreneurs are enrolled in 17federal healthcare under the ACA. Two million of the
entrepreneurs that gained coverage were insured due to 18the Medicaid expansion. The ACA also helped small
business owners provide insurance to employees through
both the small business healthcare tax credit (for firms
with under 25 employees) and SHOP, the Small Business
Health Options Program (for firms with 25-50 employees).
It is imperative that these programs are continued and
adequately funded. Without insurance, unexpected
medical costs can shut down a small business.
Advance the Health of the Hispanic Workforce
Compared to the non-minority population, Hispanics in
the U.S. have limited access to quality care and unique
barriers to healthy livelihoods. Hispanic Americans are
less likely to have healthcare and more likely to suffer 19from conditions such as diabetes and obesity.
Such health discrepancies are caused, in part, by inadequate social determinants of health. These are
both quantitative and qualitative factors that determine a family's living conditions and, consequently, health. For example, zip code, income, education, occupation, and social norms are all important social
20determinants of health. The USHCC advocates for a holistic approach to improving health in the
Hispanic community. We encourage our leaders in government to increase access to affordable
healthcare and craft policies that improve social determinates of health for Hispanic families.
Health
40% of small
business owners
stated that their
greatest challenge
was paying for
healthcare.
Increase Access to Affordable andQuality Healthcare
The USHCC believes that a wide range of affordable
healthcare options—both public and
private—should be available to Hispanic families.
We support policies that reduce rising premiums,
lower inflated drug prices, increase market
competition between private healthcare providers,
and expand funding for federal healthcare
programs.
According to the United States Census Bureau, 16
percent of Hispanics in the United States are 21uninsured. In comparison, only 6 percent of the
non-minority population is without health
insurance. Eight percent of Hispanic children do not
have healthcare, compared to 4 percent non-22minority children. One hundred percent of
uninsured Hispanics said they went without health
coverage due to cost. Additionally, 24 percent of
Hispanics say they have no usual source of care,
and 26 percent say they have had no healthcare 23visits in the last 12 months.
Since the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA),
the Hispanic uninsured rate decreased more than
any other demographic. In 2010, 43.2 percent of
working-age Hispanic adults were uninsured. By 24 2016, this number fell to 24.8 percent. The ACA's
Medicaid expansion also improved coverage rates 25 for non-citizen Hispanic immigrants. As of 2018,
there were 4 million Hispanic individuals insured 26under the ACA. The USHCC calls for a bipartisan
effort to strengthen and improve the federal
healthcare system, ensure affordability, and expand
coverage for all Americans that lack the purchasing
power to enroll in private plans.
of Hispanics in the
United States are uninsured.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
16%
8 9
Recognize Immigration as an Economic ImperativeThe UHSCC recognizes that immigrants make vital
contributions to the American economy:
Immigrants are twice as likely as the native-born 27population to start a business. Over 40 percent
28of fortune 500 companies were started by immigrants or their children. Immigrants contributed 29approximately $2 trillion in U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2017. Our government must craft
policies that help immigrants enter the workforce and join the fabric of society.
In our current workforce, key industries are experiencing a labor deficit, meaning that they have more
job openings than candidates to fill them. Immigrants comprise 17.1 percent of the American
workforce overall, and they are much more likely than native-born employees to work in industries 30experiencing a labor shortage such as construction, manufacturing, or agriculture. If the United States
is to develop a robust workforce, both “skilled” and “unskilled” immigrants are essential. Immigrants
provide necessary services in every field, ranging from neurosurgeons to strawberry pickers.
The USHCC supports immigration policies that facilitate the legal immigration of workers of all skill
levels. Limiting immigration to “high-skilled” would undermine the demands of our complex workforce
and harm key American industries. Instead, we encourage policymakers to facilitate legal immigration
to meet the needs of our workforce: streamlining the visa process, improving the guest-worker
program, and ensuring that visa caps meet the needs of employers.
Continue Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and Temporary Protected StatusThe USHCC strongly opposes recent efforts to eliminate Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
and terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for El Salvador, Honduras, and Haiti. The immigrants
that have been granted legal status under these two programs make significant contributions to the
American economy.
DACA recipients and DACA-eligible
individuals—known as DREAMers—are
immigrants who were brought to the
United States without documentation at a
young age. They did not intentionally
violate immigration law, nor should they
be punished for the actions of their
parents. Thanks to DACA, established by
executive order in 2012, 800,000
DREAMers have been able to live and 31work in the U.S. legally. It is estimated
that an additional 1 million individuals are 32eligible for the program.
In September 2017, the Administration
announced the end of the program,
creating uncertainty in the lives of DACA recipients. Deporting DREAMers would negatively impact the
U.S. economy and would be costly for American taxpayers. Ninety-seven percent of DREAMers are 33employed, in school, or in the United States military. Each year, DREAMers pay roughly $2 billion in
34state and local taxes. If DREAMers are forced to leave the country, America will face a $433 billion 35reduction in economic growth over the next decade.
Immigration
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
DREAMers pay roughly
$2 billion in state and local taxes.
Immigrants are twice as likely as the native-bornpopulation to start a business.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2XWithout DREAMers, America
will face a $433 billion reduction
in economic growth over the
next decade.
40%OVER
of Fortune 500 companieswere started by immigrants
or their children.10 11
Recognize Immigration as an Economic ImperativeThe UHSCC recognizes that immigrants make vital
contributions to the American economy:
Immigrants are twice as likely as the native-born 27population to start a business. Over 40 percent
28of fortune 500 companies were started by immigrants or their children. Immigrants contributed 29approximately $2 trillion in U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2017. Our government must craft
policies that help immigrants enter the workforce and join the fabric of society.
In our current workforce, key industries are experiencing a labor deficit, meaning that they have more
job openings than candidates to fill them. Immigrants comprise 17.1 percent of the American
workforce overall, and they are much more likely than native-born employees to work in industries 30experiencing a labor shortage such as construction, manufacturing, or agriculture. If the United States
is to develop a robust workforce, both “skilled” and “unskilled” immigrants are essential. Immigrants
provide necessary services in every field, ranging from neurosurgeons to strawberry pickers.
The USHCC supports immigration policies that facilitate the legal immigration of workers of all skill
levels. Limiting immigration to “high-skilled” would undermine the demands of our complex workforce
and harm key American industries. Instead, we encourage policymakers to facilitate legal immigration
to meet the needs of our workforce: streamlining the visa process, improving the guest-worker
program, and ensuring that visa caps meet the needs of employers.
Continue Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and Temporary Protected StatusThe USHCC strongly opposes recent efforts to eliminate Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
and terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for El Salvador, Honduras, and Haiti. The immigrants
that have been granted legal status under these two programs make significant contributions to the
American economy.
DACA recipients and DACA-eligible
individuals—known as DREAMers—are
immigrants who were brought to the
United States without documentation at a
young age. They did not intentionally
violate immigration law, nor should they
be punished for the actions of their
parents. Thanks to DACA, established by
executive order in 2012, 800,000
DREAMers have been able to live and 31work in the U.S. legally. It is estimated
that an additional 1 million individuals are 32eligible for the program.
In September 2017, the Administration
announced the end of the program,
creating uncertainty in the lives of DACA recipients. Deporting DREAMers would negatively impact the
U.S. economy and would be costly for American taxpayers. Ninety-seven percent of DREAMers are 33employed, in school, or in the United States military. Each year, DREAMers pay roughly $2 billion in
34state and local taxes. If DREAMers are forced to leave the country, America will face a $433 billion 35reduction in economic growth over the next decade.
Immigration
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
DREAMers pay roughly
$2 billion in state and local taxes.
Immigrants are twice as likely as the native-bornpopulation to start a business.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2XWithout DREAMers, America
will face a $433 billion reduction
in economic growth over the
next decade.
40%OVER
of Fortune 500 companieswere started by immigrants
or their children.10 11
Track the Impact of the USMCA and Propose
Improvements
The combined GDP of the United States, Mexico, and Canada is over $21 trillion, making the North 40American economy the largest in the world. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)
promises to strengthen economic ties in North America and boost the economy of the region. In
particular, key provisions are likely to help minority-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
access international markets.
Under the USMCA, de minimis value levels are raised, allowing SMEs to export more goods without 41facing burdensome fees. In addition, Chapter 25 of the agreement establishes a 'Committee on SME
Issues,' designed to help SMEs take advantage of commercial opportunities resulting from the 42USMCA. This chapter contains a provision specifically for minority business owners. The USHCC
recognizes this initiative as a trilateral commitment to support small and mid-sized Hispanic Business
Enterprises.
Help Hispanic Businesses Access International Markets
Tapping into international markets creates growth opportunities that are not available in the United
States alone. and Nearly 95 percent of the world's consumers live outside of the United States,43two thirds of the world's purchasing power is in foreign countries. However, it is challenging for small
businesses to access international markets. The USHCC supports federal programs that help small
businesses export.
The U.S. Department of Commerce and the Small Business Administration (SBA) both offer online 44resources and guidance to small business owners looking to export their products. Additionally, the
Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) is a resource for small businesses. This independent
federal agency provides financing solutions to empower exporters of U.S. goods. EXIM Bank resources
include export credit insurance, working capital guarantees, and guarantees of commercial loans to 45foreign buyers, all of which are important tools that facilitate access to foreign markets. The USHCC
encourages these federal agencies to make a concerted effort to engage Hispanic business owners
that may be unaware of such resources.
The combined GDP
of the United States,
Mexico, and Canada
is over $21 trillion
International Tradeand Commerce
$Similar to DACA, there are significant economic detriments to rescinding Temporary Protected Status
(TPS). TPS is a legal immigration status “granted to individuals from designated countries facing ongoing 36 conflict, disaster, or other exigent circumstance.” There are more than 320,000 people living in the U.S.
37with TPS status and approximately 275,000 U.S.-born children of TPS recipients. If TPS recipients were
forced to leave the American workforce, the U.S. would lose $164 billion in gross domestic product (GDP) 38over the next decade and employers would experience $967 million in turnover costs.
The USHCC calls for legislation that allows DREAMers and TPS recipients to maintain their legal status to
live, work and learn in the United States, as well as a pathway to citizenship. The elimination of both
programs has been delayed by federal courts, but both could be subject to an appeal, creating instability
in the lives of DREAMers, TPS recipients, their families, and their employers. In order to permanently
secure the legal status of DACA and TPS recipients, their livelihoods must be protected by law.
Build a Compassionate and Economical Approach to Border Security
The USHCC opposes the recent adoption of policies by the Department of Justice that facilitate the
separation of immigrant families. The actions of immigration enforcement officials under the “zero-
tolerance policy” violate both basic human rights and American values. We implore the Administration to
adopt a border security strategy that is both compassionate and economical, distinguishing between
immigrant families and actual bad actors. Improving our immigration system and enhancing border
security has been a top priority of the current administration beginning with the 2016 campaign.
Though we agree that the immigration system is in serious need of reform, the USHCC believes that the
proposed border wall between the United States and Mexico is an ineffective and expensive approach to
border security. The Massachusetts Institute for Technology estimates that a border wall could cost the 39U.S. $40 billion. Instead of constructing a 30-foot wall along the border, the United States should only
develop physical barriers where absolutely necessary. Alternatively, policymakers should invest in better
technology along our southern border that will modernize points of entry, expedite the processing of
asylum seekers, and help federal agents identify actual threats to national security.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Immigration
12 13
Track the Impact of the USMCA and Propose
Improvements
The combined GDP of the United States, Mexico, and Canada is over $21 trillion, making the North 40American economy the largest in the world. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)
promises to strengthen economic ties in North America and boost the economy of the region. In
particular, key provisions are likely to help minority-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
access international markets.
Under the USMCA, de minimis value levels are raised, allowing SMEs to export more goods without 41facing burdensome fees. In addition, Chapter 25 of the agreement establishes a 'Committee on SME
Issues,' designed to help SMEs take advantage of commercial opportunities resulting from the 42USMCA. This chapter contains a provision specifically for minority business owners. The USHCC
recognizes this initiative as a trilateral commitment to support small and mid-sized Hispanic Business
Enterprises.
Help Hispanic Businesses Access International Markets
Tapping into international markets creates growth opportunities that are not available in the United
States alone. and Nearly 95 percent of the world's consumers live outside of the United States,43two thirds of the world's purchasing power is in foreign countries. However, it is challenging for small
businesses to access international markets. The USHCC supports federal programs that help small
businesses export.
The U.S. Department of Commerce and the Small Business Administration (SBA) both offer online 44resources and guidance to small business owners looking to export their products. Additionally, the
Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) is a resource for small businesses. This independent
federal agency provides financing solutions to empower exporters of U.S. goods. EXIM Bank resources
include export credit insurance, working capital guarantees, and guarantees of commercial loans to 45foreign buyers, all of which are important tools that facilitate access to foreign markets. The USHCC
encourages these federal agencies to make a concerted effort to engage Hispanic business owners
that may be unaware of such resources.
The combined GDP
of the United States,
Mexico, and Canada
is over $21 trillion
International Tradeand Commerce
$Similar to DACA, there are significant economic detriments to rescinding Temporary Protected Status
(TPS). TPS is a legal immigration status “granted to individuals from designated countries facing ongoing 36 conflict, disaster, or other exigent circumstance.” There are more than 320,000 people living in the U.S.
37with TPS status and approximately 275,000 U.S.-born children of TPS recipients. If TPS recipients were
forced to leave the American workforce, the U.S. would lose $164 billion in gross domestic product (GDP) 38over the next decade and employers would experience $967 million in turnover costs.
The USHCC calls for legislation that allows DREAMers and TPS recipients to maintain their legal status to
live, work and learn in the United States, as well as a pathway to citizenship. The elimination of both
programs has been delayed by federal courts, but both could be subject to an appeal, creating instability
in the lives of DREAMers, TPS recipients, their families, and their employers. In order to permanently
secure the legal status of DACA and TPS recipients, their livelihoods must be protected by law.
Build a Compassionate and Economical Approach to Border Security
The USHCC opposes the recent adoption of policies by the Department of Justice that facilitate the
separation of immigrant families. The actions of immigration enforcement officials under the “zero-
tolerance policy” violate both basic human rights and American values. We implore the Administration to
adopt a border security strategy that is both compassionate and economical, distinguishing between
immigrant families and actual bad actors. Improving our immigration system and enhancing border
security has been a top priority of the current administration beginning with the 2016 campaign.
Though we agree that the immigration system is in serious need of reform, the USHCC believes that the
proposed border wall between the United States and Mexico is an ineffective and expensive approach to
border security. The Massachusetts Institute for Technology estimates that a border wall could cost the 39U.S. $40 billion. Instead of constructing a 30-foot wall along the border, the United States should only
develop physical barriers where absolutely necessary. Alternatively, policymakers should invest in better
technology along our southern border that will modernize points of entry, expedite the processing of
asylum seekers, and help federal agents identify actual threats to national security.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Immigration
12 13
The USHCC recognizes that international interconnectedness is an opportunity for the American
economy. Now more than ever, the sharing of ideas, culture, and commerce is occurring on a global
scale. The United States must build international trade relationships and help Hispanic owned
businesses—big and small—access international markets.
The USHCC previously supported the U.S.'s participation in the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP). The TPP
is a multilateral trade agreement between 12 countries that border the Pacific Ocean, spanning from
North and South America to Asia and Australia. By exiting this trade agreement, the United States
missed an opportunity to build relationships with nations that, combined, represent 40 percent of the 46 world's economic output. Moving forward, we encourage the Administration to reverse course.
Instead of eliminating trade deals, the U.S. must seek new multilateral trade opportunities.
Renovate Physical Infrastructure
The USHCC supports
infrastructure development and
renovation across the nation.
Today, the meaning of the word
“infrastructure” has expanded far
beyond bridges and roads.
American infrastructure ranges
from public transit systems to
broadband internet connectivity
to wind turbines. Across the
United States, roads, bridges,
transit systems, and electrical
grids are in a state of disrepair,
negatively impacting business
owners. When power and power
transit systems run inefficiently,
businesses suffer.
The USHCC encourages infrastructure development through both federal initiatives and public-private
partnerships. For example, the North American Development Bank (NADB), created by NAFTA and
continued under the USMCA, finances sustainable infrastructure that enhances the quality of life for
people living on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. We support increased capital for the NADB and
similar institutions.
Develop Secure Technological Infrastructure
American businesses are growing increasingly
dependent on technological infrastructure.
In a recent survey, 80 percent of
consumers said that they are more likely
to shop at a business if the business has 47an easy-to-use website. An additional
60 percent said that they preferred to
be contacted by a business through a
digital channel, such as e-mail or website 48banners. Finally, 78 percent of consumers
ranked a digital payment method, such as a
card or phone, as their topmost preferred 49payment option.
Technology and Infrastructure
80%
of consumers said that they are more likely to shop at a business if the business has an easy-to-use website.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Develop International Trade Relations
14 15
The USHCC recognizes that international interconnectedness is an opportunity for the American
economy. Now more than ever, the sharing of ideas, culture, and commerce is occurring on a global
scale. The United States must build international trade relationships and help Hispanic owned
businesses—big and small—access international markets.
The USHCC previously supported the U.S.'s participation in the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP). The TPP
is a multilateral trade agreement between 12 countries that border the Pacific Ocean, spanning from
North and South America to Asia and Australia. By exiting this trade agreement, the United States
missed an opportunity to build relationships with nations that, combined, represent 40 percent of the 46 world's economic output. Moving forward, we encourage the Administration to reverse course.
Instead of eliminating trade deals, the U.S. must seek new multilateral trade opportunities.
Renovate Physical Infrastructure
The USHCC supports
infrastructure development and
renovation across the nation.
Today, the meaning of the word
“infrastructure” has expanded far
beyond bridges and roads.
American infrastructure ranges
from public transit systems to
broadband internet connectivity
to wind turbines. Across the
United States, roads, bridges,
transit systems, and electrical
grids are in a state of disrepair,
negatively impacting business
owners. When power and power
transit systems run inefficiently,
businesses suffer.
The USHCC encourages infrastructure development through both federal initiatives and public-private
partnerships. For example, the North American Development Bank (NADB), created by NAFTA and
continued under the USMCA, finances sustainable infrastructure that enhances the quality of life for
people living on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. We support increased capital for the NADB and
similar institutions.
Develop Secure Technological Infrastructure
American businesses are growing increasingly
dependent on technological infrastructure.
In a recent survey, 80 percent of
consumers said that they are more likely
to shop at a business if the business has 47an easy-to-use website. An additional
60 percent said that they preferred to
be contacted by a business through a
digital channel, such as e-mail or website 48banners. Finally, 78 percent of consumers
ranked a digital payment method, such as a
card or phone, as their topmost preferred 49payment option.
Technology and Infrastructure
80%
of consumers said that they are more likely to shop at a business if the business has an easy-to-use website.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Develop International Trade Relations
14 15
The digital transformation of Hispanic Business Enterprises is necessary to ensure their success, but
there is a discrepancy in both quality and accessibility of tech infrastructure between urban and rural 50areas and within historically underserved communities, creating a “digital divide.” The USHCC
supports federal initiatives and public-private partnerships aimed at eliminating the “digital divide.” In
addition, we call for the streamlining of the regulatory approval process to foster the development of
new wireless (5G) and wired (fiber based) networks. These technologies are needed to power smart
cities, factories, transportation, and more.
New technology can create opportunities for business-owners, but it can also make the businesses and
customers vulnerable to cyberattacks such as viruses, piracy, and information breaches. It is critical that
businesses are aware of the steps they can take to prevent cyber-vulnerability, including firewall security
protection and password authentication. The USHCC encourages the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) and leaders in the technology industry to take appropriate action to inhibit hackers
and prevent future cyberattacks.
Improve Energy Infrastructure
The USHCC supports federal regulation that allows small business owners to access energy supplies at
globally competitive prices. Each year, small businesses in the United States spend more than $60 51billion on energy. In fact, 35 percent of small businesses say that basic energy costs are one of their
52top 3 expenses. Everyday energy costs are burdensome, and the rapidly changing energy market
creates instability. Even basic expenses such as vehicle operation and heating/cooling can devastate a
small business when prices go up.
The USHCC supports policies that improve energy affordability and efficiency, easing burdens for
American business owners. Efficient energy use, by definition, allows business owners to reduce the
amount of energy required to operate, thereby keeping costs low. Federal resources such as the SBA 53Energy Efficiency Loan Program can help fund improvements that lead to a reduction in energy usage.
1 “Hispanic Business Report 2017.”
Geoscape. 2017.
2 “The U.S. Latino Entrepreneurship Gap.”
Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative.
Stanford University Graduate School of
Business. 2018.
3 “Buying power of Hispanic consumers in
the United States from 1990 to 2020 (in
trillion U.S. dollars).” Statista. December
2016.
4 “Labor force characteristics by race and
ethnicity, 2016.” Bureau of Labor Statistics.
U.S. Department of Labor. October 2017.
5 “Small Business Owners Support Policies
Promoting Access to Responsible Lending.”
Small Business Majority. May 2018.
6 Ibid.
7 “Executive Summary: Disparities in Capital
Access Between Minority and Non-Minority
Businesses.” Minority Business
Development Agency. 2017.
8 Ibid.
9 “How Pass-Through Income Will Be Taxed in
2018 For Small Business Owners.”
Greenbush Financial Group, LLC. 2018.
10 Banister, Jon. “With $6 Trillion In Potential
Investment On The Line, Opportunity
Zones Begin To Take Shape.” Biznow. April
2018.
11 “Small Business Loan Credit Scoring.” The
Small Business Administration. 2019.
12 “26.8 million Hispanics or Latinos in the U.S.
labor force in 2016.” Bureau of Labor
Statistics. U.S. Department of Labor.
September 2017.
13 Miller, Kevin. “The Simple Truth about the
Gender Pay Gap.” American Association of
University Women. 2019.
14 “Beyond Wages: Effects of the Latina Wage
Gap.” UnidosUS. National Partnership for
Women & Families. November 2018.
15 Phillips, Katherine W. “How Diversity Makes
Us Smarter.” Scientific American. October
2014.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
References
16 17
The digital transformation of Hispanic Business Enterprises is necessary to ensure their success, but
there is a discrepancy in both quality and accessibility of tech infrastructure between urban and rural 50areas and within historically underserved communities, creating a “digital divide.” The USHCC
supports federal initiatives and public-private partnerships aimed at eliminating the “digital divide.” In
addition, we call for the streamlining of the regulatory approval process to foster the development of
new wireless (5G) and wired (fiber based) networks. These technologies are needed to power smart
cities, factories, transportation, and more.
New technology can create opportunities for business-owners, but it can also make the businesses and
customers vulnerable to cyberattacks such as viruses, piracy, and information breaches. It is critical that
businesses are aware of the steps they can take to prevent cyber-vulnerability, including firewall security
protection and password authentication. The USHCC encourages the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) and leaders in the technology industry to take appropriate action to inhibit hackers
and prevent future cyberattacks.
Improve Energy Infrastructure
The USHCC supports federal regulation that allows small business owners to access energy supplies at
globally competitive prices. Each year, small businesses in the United States spend more than $60 51billion on energy. In fact, 35 percent of small businesses say that basic energy costs are one of their
52top 3 expenses. Everyday energy costs are burdensome, and the rapidly changing energy market
creates instability. Even basic expenses such as vehicle operation and heating/cooling can devastate a
small business when prices go up.
The USHCC supports policies that improve energy affordability and efficiency, easing burdens for
American business owners. Efficient energy use, by definition, allows business owners to reduce the
amount of energy required to operate, thereby keeping costs low. Federal resources such as the SBA 53Energy Efficiency Loan Program can help fund improvements that lead to a reduction in energy usage.
1 “Hispanic Business Report 2017.”
Geoscape. 2017.
2 “The U.S. Latino Entrepreneurship Gap.”
Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative.
Stanford University Graduate School of
Business. 2018.
3 “Buying power of Hispanic consumers in
the United States from 1990 to 2020 (in
trillion U.S. dollars).” Statista. December
2016.
4 “Labor force characteristics by race and
ethnicity, 2016.” Bureau of Labor Statistics.
U.S. Department of Labor. October 2017.
5 “Small Business Owners Support Policies
Promoting Access to Responsible Lending.”
Small Business Majority. May 2018.
6 Ibid.
7 “Executive Summary: Disparities in Capital
Access Between Minority and Non-Minority
Businesses.” Minority Business
Development Agency. 2017.
8 Ibid.
9 “How Pass-Through Income Will Be Taxed in
2018 For Small Business Owners.”
Greenbush Financial Group, LLC. 2018.
10 Banister, Jon. “With $6 Trillion In Potential
Investment On The Line, Opportunity
Zones Begin To Take Shape.” Biznow. April
2018.
11 “Small Business Loan Credit Scoring.” The
Small Business Administration. 2019.
12 “26.8 million Hispanics or Latinos in the U.S.
labor force in 2016.” Bureau of Labor
Statistics. U.S. Department of Labor.
September 2017.
13 Miller, Kevin. “The Simple Truth about the
Gender Pay Gap.” American Association of
University Women. 2019.
14 “Beyond Wages: Effects of the Latina Wage
Gap.” UnidosUS. National Partnership for
Women & Families. November 2018.
15 Phillips, Katherine W. “How Diversity Makes
Us Smarter.” Scientific American. October
2014.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
References
16 17
16 “NSBA 2018 Politics of Small Business
Survey.” National Small Business
Association. 2018.
17 “Small businesses see significant gains from
the ACA.” Healthcare. Small Business
Majority. October 2018.
18 Ibid.
19 “Obesity and Hispanic Americans.” U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services
Offices of Minority Health. 2016.
20 Velasco-Mondragon, Eduardo, Angela
Jimenez, Anna G. Palladino-Davis, Dawn
Davis, and Jose A. Escmilla-Cejudo.
“Hispanic health in the USA: a scoping
review of the literature.” Public Health
Reviews 2016.
21 “Health Insurance Coverage in the United
States: 2017.” United States Census Bureau.
September 2017.
22 “Health and Health Care for Hispanics in the
United States.” Henry J Kaiser Family
Foundation. January 2018.
23 Ibid.
24 Doty, Michelle M. and Sara R Collins.
“Millions More Latino Adults Are Insured
Under the Affordable Care Act.” The
Commonwealth Fund. January 2017.
25 Stimpson, Jim P. and Fernando A. Wilson.
“Medicaid Expansion Improved Health
Insurance Coverage For Immigrants, But
Disparities Persist.” Social Determinants,
Drug, and Device Prices. Health Affairs.
October 2018.
26 Artiga, Samantha, Julia Foutz, and Anthony
Damico. “Health Coverage by Race and
Ethnicity: Changes Under ACA.” Henry J. Kaiser
Family Foundation. January 2018.
27 Stengler, Dane and Jason Weins. “The
Economic Case for Welcoming Immigrant
Entrepreneurs.” Ewig Marion Kauffman
Foundation. September 2015.
28 Ibid.
29 Nicholson, Michael. “The Facts on
Immigration Today: 2017 Edition.” The Center
for American Progress. April 2017.
30 “Foreign-Born Workers: Labor Force
Characteristics.” Bureau of Labor Statistics:
The United States Department of Labor.
May 18, 2017.
31 Lopez, Gustavo and Jens Manuel Krogstad.
“Key Facts About Unauthorized Immigrants
Enrolled in DACA.” Pew Research Center.
September 2017.
32 Ibid.
33 Wong, Kim, Grecia Martinez Rosas, Adam
Luna, Henry Manning, Adrian Reyna, Patrick
O'Shea, Tom Jawetz, and Phillip E. Wolgin.
“DACA Recipients' Economic and Educational
Gains Continue to Grow.” Center for
American Progress. August 28, 2017.
34 “New Report: DACA-Eligible Immigrants
Annually Pay $2 Billion in State and Local
Taxes.” Institute on Taxation and Economic
Policy. April 24, 2017.
35 Hudak, John and Elaine Karmack. “The Mind-
Boggling Cost of DACA Repeal.” The Brookings
Institute. September 7, 2017.
36 “Temporary Protected Status.” U.S. Citizenship
and Immigration Services. U.S. Department
of Homeland Security. 2019.
37 Svajlenka, Nicole Prchal, Angie Bautista
Chavez, and Laura Munoz Lopez. “TPS
Holders Are Integral Members of the U.S.
Economy and Society.” Center for American
Progress. October 2017.
38 Ibid.
39 Kakaes, Konstantin. “Bad Math Props Up
Trump's Border Wall.” MIT Technology
Review. Massachusetts Institute of
Technology. October 2016.
40 “North America: GDP Current US$.” The World
Bank. 2019.
41 “United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Fact stSheet: Modernizing NAFTA into a 21 Century
Trade Agreement.” Office of the United States
Trade Representative. Executive Office of
the President. October 2018.
42 Ibid.
43 Kochhar, Rakesh. “A Global Middle Class is
More Promise Than Reality.” Pew Research
Center. July 2015.
44 “Going Global: Resources for Entrepreneurs
and Small Businesses.” Small Business &
Entrepreneurship Council.
45 “Export Solutions Needed.” Export-Import
Bank of the United States. 2019.
46 Meltzer, Joshua P. “The Trans-Pacific
Partnership Agreement, the Environment, and
Climate Change.” Brookings. September
2013.
47 “The Digital Transformation of SMBs: The
Future of Commerce.” Visa. 2018.
48 Ibid.
49 Ibid.
50 “Digital Divide Narrows for Latinos as More
Spanish Speakers and Immigrants Go Online.”
Hispanic Trends. Pew Research Center. July
2016.
51 “Small Businesses: An Overview of Energy Use
and Energy Efficiency Opportunities.”
EnergyStar. U.S. Department of Energy.
2019.
52 “Energy.” National Federation of
Independent Businesses. 2019.
53 Langer, Rois. “Leveraging SBA Loan Programs
to Finance Building Energy Efficiency Projects.”
Electricity, Resources, and Building Systems.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory. U.S.
Department of Energy. 2018.
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
2 0 1 9 P O L I C Y P L A T F O R MUNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
18 19
16 “NSBA 2018 Politics of Small Business
Survey.” National Small Business
Association. 2018.
17 “Small businesses see significant gains from
the ACA.” Healthcare. Small Business
Majority. October 2018.
18 Ibid.
19 “Obesity and Hispanic Americans.” U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services
Offices of Minority Health. 2016.
20 Velasco-Mondragon, Eduardo, Angela
Jimenez, Anna G. Palladino-Davis, Dawn
Davis, and Jose A. Escmilla-Cejudo.
“Hispanic health in the USA: a scoping
review of the literature.” Public Health
Reviews 2016.
21 “Health Insurance Coverage in the United
States: 2017.” United States Census Bureau.
September 2017.
22 “Health and Health Care for Hispanics in the
United States.” Henry J Kaiser Family
Foundation. January 2018.
23 Ibid.
24 Doty, Michelle M. and Sara R Collins.
“Millions More Latino Adults Are Insured
Under the Affordable Care Act.” The
Commonwealth Fund. January 2017.
25 Stimpson, Jim P. and Fernando A. Wilson.
“Medicaid Expansion Improved Health
Insurance Coverage For Immigrants, But
Disparities Persist.” Social Determinants,
Drug, and Device Prices. Health Affairs.
October 2018.
26 Artiga, Samantha, Julia Foutz, and Anthony
Damico. “Health Coverage by Race and
Ethnicity: Changes Under ACA.” Henry J. Kaiser
Family Foundation. January 2018.
27 Stengler, Dane and Jason Weins. “The
Economic Case for Welcoming Immigrant
Entrepreneurs.” Ewig Marion Kauffman
Foundation. September 2015.
28 Ibid.
29 Nicholson, Michael. “The Facts on
Immigration Today: 2017 Edition.” The Center
for American Progress. April 2017.
30 “Foreign-Born Workers: Labor Force
Characteristics.” Bureau of Labor Statistics:
The United States Department of Labor.
May 18, 2017.
31 Lopez, Gustavo and Jens Manuel Krogstad.
“Key Facts About Unauthorized Immigrants
Enrolled in DACA.” Pew Research Center.
September 2017.
32 Ibid.
33 Wong, Kim, Grecia Martinez Rosas, Adam
Luna, Henry Manning, Adrian Reyna, Patrick
O'Shea, Tom Jawetz, and Phillip E. Wolgin.
“DACA Recipients' Economic and Educational
Gains Continue to Grow.” Center for
American Progress. August 28, 2017.
34 “New Report: DACA-Eligible Immigrants
Annually Pay $2 Billion in State and Local
Taxes.” Institute on Taxation and Economic
Policy. April 24, 2017.
35 Hudak, John and Elaine Karmack. “The Mind-
Boggling Cost of DACA Repeal.” The Brookings
Institute. September 7, 2017.
36 “Temporary Protected Status.” U.S. Citizenship
and Immigration Services. U.S. Department
of Homeland Security. 2019.
37 Svajlenka, Nicole Prchal, Angie Bautista
Chavez, and Laura Munoz Lopez. “TPS
Holders Are Integral Members of the U.S.
Economy and Society.” Center for American
Progress. October 2017.
38 Ibid.
39 Kakaes, Konstantin. “Bad Math Props Up
Trump's Border Wall.” MIT Technology
Review. Massachusetts Institute of
Technology. October 2016.
40 “North America: GDP Current US$.” The World
Bank. 2019.
41 “United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Fact stSheet: Modernizing NAFTA into a 21 Century
Trade Agreement.” Office of the United States
Trade Representative. Executive Office of
the President. October 2018.
42 Ibid.
43 Kochhar, Rakesh. “A Global Middle Class is
More Promise Than Reality.” Pew Research
Center. July 2015.
44 “Going Global: Resources for Entrepreneurs
and Small Businesses.” Small Business &
Entrepreneurship Council.
45 “Export Solutions Needed.” Export-Import
Bank of the United States. 2019.
46 Meltzer, Joshua P. “The Trans-Pacific
Partnership Agreement, the Environment, and
Climate Change.” Brookings. September
2013.
47 “The Digital Transformation of SMBs: The
Future of Commerce.” Visa. 2018.
48 Ibid.
49 Ibid.
50 “Digital Divide Narrows for Latinos as More
Spanish Speakers and Immigrants Go Online.”
Hispanic Trends. Pew Research Center. July
2016.
51 “Small Businesses: An Overview of Energy Use
and Energy Efficiency Opportunities.”
EnergyStar. U.S. Department of Energy.
2019.
52 “Energy.” National Federation of
Independent Businesses. 2019.
53 Langer, Rois. “Leveraging SBA Loan Programs
to Finance Building Energy Efficiency Projects.”
Electricity, Resources, and Building Systems.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory. U.S.
Department of Energy. 2018.
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