Here’s a look at some issues NFIB/Tennessee will be facing in the 2013 legislative session:
- Workers' compensation reform: Though some meaningful workers' comp reforms have been achieved, our members continue to urge state leaders to address rising costs and significant bureaucracy in our review system. NFIB has been working with Gov. Haslam's administration and other leaders to identify challenges and share opportunities to overhaul workers' comp. Through the upcoming 2013 Member Ballot and your direct feedback, your input will be critical in helping state leaders determine major reform proposals to consider.
- Eminent domain reform: In 2012, NFIB supported legislation that would have allowed property owners to seek binding arbitration in eminent domain proceedings. In some cases, local governments "run the clock" on farmers and small businesses through extended, costly court proceedings, forcing them to settle early and not receive just compensation. We will continue to work for our members on this issue and pursue other eminent domain reforms that provide a level playing field.
- Fewer harmful regulations: Small business is swamped with excessive paperwork and bureaucracy. NFIB continues to work with our governor and legislature to cut red tape and streamline procedures so small business can create badly needed jobs.
- Monitor and improve the budget process: Our members believe government should be run with discipline like most entrepreneurs manage their operations. We will continue to protect small businesses from harmful tax proposals and to encourage government leaders to reduce unnecessary spending. Our members believe all substantive tax proposals must be debated openly through the normal legislative process, not through end-of-session “technical corrections” bills that resemble Washington-style legislation.