Finally, even with the reforms and additional programs put in place by Congress, business owners question whether lawmakers will ever learn from these catastrophes that have the reverse effect. Instead of sending aid swiftly to millions of business and restaurant owners, the SBA has propped up hurdles relating to technology, management, and discriminatory practices.

“The most frustrating part for me was… they’re like, here, here’s this carrot, it’s yours. It will be delivered to you in three days, and then, oh sorry, we made a mistake,” León said. The SBA’s mistakes are inexcusable —a sign of an agency run amok whose failures could end up irreparably harming hardworking American businesses and non-profits.

Rachel Bucchino is a reporter at the National Interest. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, U.S. News & World Report, and The Hill.

Image: Reuters