NFIB State Director Gregg Thompson today commended the General Assembly for overriding Gov. Josh Stein’s veto of House Bill 402, also known as the REINS Act.

“Our members were deeply disappointed when Governor Stein vetoed the bill, which will help protect small businesses from overreaching government rules,” Thompson said. “Today’s override is a big victory for small businesses.”

House Bill 402 requires lawmakers to approve any new state regulation expected to cost $20 million or more over five years. It would also expand the review process for other costly rules, giving small businesses a stronger voice when new regulations are proposed.

“Small businesses are already struggling with higher costs and workforce shortages,” Thompson said. “They shouldn’t be blindsided by expensive new rules without having a chance to speak up.”

Stein vetoed the bill in June, saying it would constrain state agencies. Thompson said the measure will allow small businesses to be heard and protect them from rules that could hurt their ability to grow and hire.

“Small businesses deserve a say in the rule-making process,” Thompson said. “We’re grateful to lawmakers for taking this step to ensure that job creators’ voices are heard before costly new regulations can be imposed.”