Empire State Today

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has outlined its legislative priorities for 2025 in New York. The organization, which represents over 11,000 small business members in the state, released these priorities ahead of Governor Kathy Hochul’s State of the State Address.

Ashley Ranslow, NFIB New York State Director, stated that "New York’s Main Street businesses are under a tremendous amount of pressure due to onerous taxes, burdensome mandates, and increased costs like utility bills." She emphasized the need for lawmakers to oppose new employer mandates and regulatory costs while reducing tax burdens on small business owners. This includes addressing what she referred to as the 'Covid Tax' from the UI Trust Fund crisis. Ranslow added that "reducing the costs imposed on Main Street will help bring down costs for consumers and make New York more affordable for all."

The NFIB's legislative agenda includes five main points:

1. **Unemployment Insurance**: The NFIB continues to advocate for paying off unemployment insurance debt, stressing that small businesses should not bear this burden caused by the pandemic.

2. **Halting Costly Lawsuits**: The organization supports stopping costly lawsuits and opposes new "private rights of action."

3. **Lowering Taxes and Fees**: The NFIB backs efforts to lower taxes and control credit card swipe fees.

4. **Limiting Regulations**: They oppose additional mandates and regulations that increase business expenses in New York.

5. **Energy Affordability**: The NFIB calls for a comprehensive cost analysis of state electrification and energy mandates, along with delaying the implementation of DEC’s ACT rule.

For over 80 years, NFIB has advocated for small businesses across America, maintaining a nonpartisan stance since its founding in 1943.