White City Small Business Leader Recognized as 3C Congressional Champion

WASHINGTON (May 7, 2024): Lisa Hammonds, owner of White City, OR-based Full Leaf Tea Co, last week met with Rep. Cliff Bentz (R-OR2) and officials from Sen. Ron Wyden’s (D-OR) office to explain the vital role digital tools play in her business. She also voiced concern about policy proposals that could hurt small businesses like hers by making such tools more expensive and less effective. 

Hammonds’ visit, which coincided with National Small Business Week, reflected small business leaders’ desire that proposed laws governing data privacy and artificial intelligence (AI) not only provide consumer protections, but also allow small businesses to continue growing and thriving. New research shows that 63% of small business leaders believe AI tools help level the playing field for businesses of all sizes, and 47% identify data security as a top issue they think Congress should address. 

“It was such an honor to meet with Rep. Bentz and Sen. Wyden’s staff to demonstrate how important digital tools are to running and growing my business,” said Hammonds. “I hope Congress understands my concerns and works hard to pass laws that give small business owners peace of mind, not sleepless nights.” 

Hammonds was one of over twenty small business leaders who came to Washington from across the country to meet with representatives from dozens of U.S. Congressional offices.

“Small businesses are essential to the nation’s economy, so it’s extremely important that Congress understands their perspective and addresses their concerns,” said Rob Retzlaff, 3C Executive Director. “Lisa is a fantastic example of the millions of creative, resilient, hard-working American small business leaders out there. We commend her for her willingness to reach out to Congressional leaders, speak up on behalf of small businesses, and help ensure small business success.”