Capitol News

Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) and U.S. Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler visited Owosso, Michigan, on Wednesday to meet with local workers and small-business owners. The visit focused on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which supporters say has delivered tax relief aimed at supporting economic growth and job creation in mid-Michigan.

Barrett and Loeffler began their day touring Clark Engineering, a manufacturer in Owosso that produces rod, wire form, pipe, tubing, and other metal products. They then held a roundtable discussion with local business owners and leaders to talk about the needs of area employers and the impact of recent federal policies.

“In the factory, on the road, or at the restaurant, the people of mid-Michigan put in the hard work required to make an honest living and provide for their families,” Barrett said. “They are the reason we passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to provide historic tax relief and lower costs for everyday families who have been struggling to make ends meet as a result of runaway inflation. Today, their message was clear: The One Big Beautiful Bill and no tax on tips or overtime are big wins that are improving lives all across mid-Michigan. I’m thankful to Administrator Loeffler for coming to meet with the hardworking people who make our community special and hear their stories.”

Loeffler added: “President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act is delivering for small businesses and working families across Michigan – from factory floors to Main Street. Whether talking with business owners or workers today, it is clear these historic tax cuts, the incentives to hire, and no tax on tips and overtime will create more good paying jobs and drive more Made in America manufacturing. I am grateful to Congressman Barrett for his work to pass this critical relief for working families and small businesses – laying the foundation for the return of prosperity to Main Streets across Michigan.”

The roundtable included representatives from several local businesses such as Clark Engineering, All Weather Mechanical, Josh’s Frogs, Heritage Hollow, Great Lakes Fusion, LJ Inc., Greenlee Consulting, and Shiawassee Economic Development Partnership.

Kerry Dutcher of Clark Engineering commented: “The entire team at Clark Engineering is grateful for the opportunity to host Congressman Barrett and SBA Administrator Loeffler today for an exciting discussion with many of the small business leaders who help drive Shiawassee County forward. Their continued advocacy for pro-growth policies and essential tax relief is critical for the success of our company and will be a game changer for our employees. We appreciate their time and insights as we plan for the future.”

Justin Horvath from Shiawassee Economic Development Partnership said: “Small business is truly the backbone of America’s economy. We are thankful for Congressman Barrett’s strong support for these firms in Shiawassee County, and appreciative that both he and SBA Administrator Loeffler took time today to visit with several of our local entrepreneurs and learn about their opportunities and challenges to business growth.”

Afterward, Barrett and Loeffler visited Owosso Speedway where they met Rex Wheeler—who manages both the speedway operation as well as a trucking business serving clients nationwide.