Business.gov Helps Businesses Meet Federal Compliance Requirements.

WASHINGTON -- A newly launched federal government Web site, Business.gov, provides business owners with a one-stop resource that searches the federal government agencies that regulate or serve businesses for compliance information or resources.

The Web site makes it easier to find information on taxes, immigration laws, workplace safety, environmental requirements and other regulations that can present challenges for small and mid-sized businesses.

"The Business Gateway Initiative through Business.gov is an important part of the President's vision of helping American businesses by providing a one-stop portal for federal resources," said Office of Management and Budget (OMB) E-Gov Administrator Karen Evans. "Business.gov is the Official Business Link to the U.S. Government and is a continuation of agencies working together to improve services to citizens and businesses through technology."

"The end goal of Business.gov is to cut through the red tape and make it easier for businesses to do business," said SBA Administrator Steven C. Preston. "This Web site will help streamline access to information and reduce federal compliance barriers to helping businesses save time and money."

Business.gov will direct businesses to the best sources, reduce compliance barriers and help avoid costly mistakes, allowing them to continue to contribute to the American economy and their communities. Business.gov is managed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in a partnership with 21 other federal agencies and is part of the President's Management Agenda.

"The new Business.gov Web site will increase regulatory compliance among businesses, particularly small businesses, while simultaneously reducing the time and effort spent in meeting those requirements," said William Kovacs, Vice President, Environment, Technology & Regulatory Affairs, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Andrew Langer, Manager of Regulatory Policy, National Federation of Independent Businesses added, "Business.gov is an essential tool in the move to make the regulatory process more understandable and accessible. It will serve the twin purposes of increasing compliance and reducing the burdens faced by America's businesses."

Small firms with fewer than 500 employees represent 99.7% of all businesses. These firms spend 45% more per employee than larger companies to comply with federal regulations including taxes and environmental requirements, according to the SBA.

Originally launched in 2004, Business.gov initially provided information on starting, growing and managing a small business. The new compliance focus is designed to better meet the needs of the business community.

Editor's Note: An online press kit is available at http://www.business.gov/press. Business.gov logos are available on a limited basis upon request.