What it means: Two energy-related bills would alleviate financial burdens on small businesses by reducing energy costs and increasing consumer choice. NFIB is proud to support these bills that protect small business owners’ access to affordable energy.

Our take: “Small businesses believe that consumers and business owners should have the freedom to decide which product works best for their specific needs, no matter what fuel source the product uses,” said Adam Temple, NFIB Senior Vice President for Advocacy.

Take Action: Share your story about burdensome regulations taking a toll on your ability to own, operate, and grow your small business.

NFIB supports both H.J.Res.20 and H.J.Res.35, marking them as NFIB Key Votes for the 119^th Congress. Both measures protect small business owners’ access to affordable and reliable energy sources by the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations that increase energy costs for small business.

H.J.Res.20 seeks to remedy financial burdens resulting from current DOE regulations mandating bans on certain gas-fired water heaters, resulting in fewer choices and higher costs for small businesses. According to a recent NFIB member ballot, 96% of NFIB members and small business owners believe the federal government should not restrict the purchase of consumer products. Eliminating the restrictions actively in place would provide relief for small businesses.

H.J. Res.35 would repeal the EPA’s financially burdensome rule that established a methane fee for oil and natural gas production and storage that increases costs energy producers ultimately pass down to small businesses. The NFIB Research Center’s Small Business Problems & Priorities report found that energy costs are a top 10 issue facing small business operations. Small business owners have a right to affordable energy.

NFIB continues to fight for legislation that frees small businesses from onerous costs and reduces energy prices. Read NFIB’s letters of support to Members of Congress regarding the DOE’s gas-fired water heater regulation and the EPA’s rule.

Take Action: Share your story about burdensome regulations taking a toll on your ability to own, operate, and grow your small business.