Washington, D.C. – The Women’s Entrepreneurship and Economic Empowerment Act passed the House today, moving the bill to the White House. The bipartisan legislation, authored in the House by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA) and Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL), Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues, will help break down gender-related barriers to economic growth and supports women-led enterprises in developing countries.

“In too many places, women are still barred from participating in their economies,” Chairman Royce said. “Millions of women in developing countries are shut out of the financial system. They don’t have access to savings, credit, insurance or basic property rights. This legislation will help break down barriers, and empower more women to start their own businesses and take advantage of other opportunities. I thank all who’ve worked to get this bill into law.”

“The WEEE Act recognizes there is an undeniable link between women’s economic success and global prosperity,” Rep. Frankel said. “When women and girls are educated, free from violence, and have access to tools to support their families, their communities are safer, stronger, and more peaceful.”

NOTE: Under Chairman Royce’s leadership, the House Foreign Affairs Committee has passed numerous bills and held a series of public hearings to help leverage U.S. investments in diplomacy, development and security to empower women and girls around the world. Learn more here.

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