U.S. Representative Kathy Castor released the following statement relating to the passage of bipartisan Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act today:

“Entrepreneurs and small businesses owners throughout our community need a boost to hire, form startups, and grow their businesses. The bipartisan JOBS Act cuts red tape that often gets in the way of creating new jobs and businesses.

While I was heartened by the turnout at my Job Fair in Tampa last Saturday with over 75 employers participating, we must do more to foster growth and create new jobs for our neighbors. The economy is improving and we must keep the momentum going.

This bill reduces red tape and makes it easier for small businesses to go public and raise the capital they need to expand and hire new workers. It also gives more freedom to community banks to provide loans to small businesses and individuals.

I am heartened to see my colleagues on both sides of the aisle come together to overwhelmingly pass this legislation. I urge the Senate to quickly take up this legislation and do even more to encourage job growth for small businesses while maintaining investor protections. President Obama announced that he would sign the bill if it reaches his desk.

The JOBS Act is a positive step forward. However, we can and must do more on a broad-based jobs initiative, including education, construction and infrastructure.”

H.R. 3606 the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act passed the U.S. House today by a vote of 390-23.