NFIB State Director Gregg Thompson is calling on North Carolina lawmakers to carefully consider how proposed legislation could impact small businesses as the General Assembly begins its session on Wednesday, Jan. 8.

“North Carolina’s economy is built on its small businesses,” Thompson said. “It’s essential that the General Assembly considers how each piece of legislation could impact the state’s job creators.”

According to the most recent NFIB Small Business Optimism Index, business owners nationwide are feeling more hopeful about the direction of the economy. However, they are still facing challenges like rising costs and a shortage of qualified job candidates, and many North Carolina businesses are still recovering from last year’s devastating floods caused by Hurricane Helene, Thompson said.

“Our members need lawmakers to remember the challenges they’re facing and to pass legislation that enables them to grow and create jobs,” Thompson said. This includes passing a budget that avoids increasing taxes and fees on small businesses to fund expanded programs, he said.

“We look forward to working with legislative leaders and Governor Stein to find solutions that empower North Carolina’s entrepreneurs to own, operate, and grow their businesses,” Thompson said.