Comment on FR Doc # E7-24381

As the word recession continues to take the lead at any economic meeting, we can't stress enough the importance of programs that cater to small businesses. From access to credit, to assistance with their business, small business owners rely on the guidance and support of these programs to manage the day to day operations. Critical to their success is the lending community who both reacts when the small business is in need of assistance and caters to the communities in which they serve. As financial results have indicated, banks are coming into 2008 with a lot of questions on what is the best use of their product mix. SBA products provide both the lender and small business with a resource that is crucial to the long term stabilization of the economy. What has raised some concern is the growing costs associated to the users of the SBA lending programs. These cost now include both off and on site lender reviews which arguably are important, however, cause many to question whether the associated expense warrants the participation. At at time where credit is at a premium, the SBA program becomes that more vital. I would encourage the SBA to ponder this when considering some of the effects of the lender oversight proposal. Implementation of such will drive many to possibly reshift their 2008 and beyond strategic plans. Thank you.