NFIB

Sioux City Business Owner Revels in Role of Advocate
04/10/2002

Steve Salem inherited his outspokenness from his father. The elder Salem, Rudy, regularly writes letters to the local paper about issues that concern him. Through his father's example, Steve has seen how much advocates can accomplish.

That's why NFIB's grassroots activism impressed him the most. As the owner of a full-service staffing company, Salem had been an active lobbyist on a few issues at the state level for his industry's association. But he didn't have the time or resources to fight for broader issues at both the state and national level.

"I knew I couldn't go to Washington, D.C., and do what NFIB does," he says.

A few years ago, Salem's business had a first-hand experience with OSHA that left him shocked at how the agency handled the situation. He draws from that experience when he helps NFIB fight for fewer employer regulations.

The Sioux City business owner served five years as chairman of the Leadership Council and attends each Small Business Summit. But Salem considers voting his ballot one of the most important contributions he can make as an NFIB member.

"I've never missed one," he says.

Quick Facts:
Name: Rudy Salem Staffing Company
Location: Sioux City, Iowa
Founded: 1983
Number of employees: 27

How did you get into the business?
My father started the business in 1983. I came to work with him in the business, and then in 1991, I purchased it from him. We have three locations in Iowa and two in Nebraska.

Why did you join NFIB?
The federal lobbying efforts impressed me the most. I had been an advocate for my trade association at the state level. In fact, we were recognized as one of the most effective trade organization lobbying groups in the country for our ability to pass legislation. But I knew I couldn't go and do the same things at the congressional level. I appreciated that NFIB was a national group that could do that work for me. Even though small businesses are very diverse, there are common themes that affect us all, and NFIB fights for those.

How did you become involved in NFIB grassroots activism?
Just one look at my desk proves how busy I am. I've got mail that I haven't even had a chance to open yet. But I take the time to be involved with NFIB because it's so important to my business. A few years ago, my business had a first-hand experience with OSHA that made me realize how out of control the organization can be. One of our temporary workers was cleaning up around a construction site. A strong wind came up and knocked two other men who didn't work for our company off a roof. Unfortunately, one of them died. OSHA cited everyone who was on the site at the time of the accident, including a cell phone company. Because our guy was cleaning up the grounds when it happened, we ended up having to settle and pay a fine, which was cheaper than fighting the citation in court. I want to be involved in efforts to help control such incidents.

What are your top legislative concerns at the state and federal levels?
At the state level, I am most concerned about OSHA regulations. Iowa is one of a very few states that has its own state-run OSHA agency. Combine that with a governor that has a trial-lawyer background, and you're up against a lot. On the federal level, I am concerned about endless paperwork. Even though we've supposedly had legislation to reduce paperwork, it remains a burden for small business owners.

Why do you like being a small business owner?
It's not easy to be a small business owner. I often think to myself, "Wouldn't it be easier to go work for a big company? Let some one else fight the battles." But I'm too independent. I don't answer to a boss, except my customers. I enjoy getting to speak out on issues important to me. I like raising viewpoints other have, but don't feel comfortable voicing. I can do that as a small business owner.