U.S. Representative Paul Broun (GA) toured the 13,000 sq.-ft. facility at BASIC Equipment in Eatonton, Ga., June 14.

During his visit, Rep. Broun had the opportunity to learn about the company’s successes as well as some of its challenges.

“BASIC Equipment is a fine example of what can happen when a business combines hard work with ingenuity,” said Broun. “I was pleased to tour the facility, meet with the management and some of the staff, and hear what’s working for their business and what I can do to help.”

BASIC Equipment President Shannon Chastain told Broun that he started the business as a young man and worked diligently over the years to expand the facility, inventory and workforce. He also explained that recent sales have suffered due to the current economic climate.

“We have had to make many changes to try to survive including cutting employees, cutting inventory, cutting back on marketing, and we have had to spend a lot of our time focusing on other sources of income including buying and selling used and refurbished equipment,” said Chastain.

In addition, he explained that the company’s attempts to gain government contracts have been unsuccessful, although the “equipment would be a perfect fit for many government applications … because of our simple, reliable designs along with our very competitive pricing.”

Broun has heard similar challenges from job creators throughout Georgia’s 10th Congressional District. In response, he authored the JOBS Act, H.R. 660, to provide long-term tax and regulatory relief for American small business.

“We desperately need pro-business, pro-growth legislation such as my JOBS Act to jumpstart the private sector and get us out of this recession,” said Broun. “My bill is based on immediate tax cuts that will enable small business to grow and create jobs.”

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