HARRISBURG, Pa. (ErieNewsNow) - State lawmakers are looking to help small businesses get their footing as they launch in the commonwealth. 

Senate Bill 663 would waive state and local startup fees for more businesses. 

The bill would expand the existing 100 percent exemption from certain fees, which currently applies to veteran-owned and reservist-owned small businesses, to also include woman-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, minority-owned, and disadvantaged businesses. 

Microenterprises, or businesses with five employees or less, would also qualify for a 100 percent exemption. All other small businesses would receive a partial exemption equal to 50 percent of the fee. 

Local lawmakers say it has the potential to spur business and job growth locally and statewide. 

“This bill will not only encourage additional businesses to spur and develop, but it also gives opportunities for employers who have five employees or less to be a part of this. This is going to be a great thing, not just for Erie, but for the entire Commonwealth,” said Rep. Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie). “Anything that we can do to help any type of business out there- whether you're women owned, minority owned, veteran owned- we want to see you do well and we want to see you start your craft. This bill will give folks the opportunity to do that,” Bizzarro added. 

Lawmakers on the other side of the aisle agree. 

“Small and local business is the backbone of our country. Our communities depend on and thrive from their success. Eliminating the barriers to starting a business and making the process more accessible to regular people is a great step in the right direction. Revitalizing small businesses here in Pennsylvania is our way forward. The Small Business Fee Exemption Act is a win for us all,” said Rep. Jake Banta (R-Erie). 

The bill remains in the Senate State Government Committee where it needs approval before heading to the Senate floor.