Topics:
August 1, 2023
State Director Natalie Robinson talks about the latest NFIB small business poll.
Indiana State Director Talks Small Business on Indy Politics
NFIB State Director Natalie Robinson and NFIB member Ty Spatta of Axis Painting spoke with Abdul Hakim-Shabazz of Indy Politics about small business concerns and the climate of Indiana’s economy with
Spatta’s small business, Axis Painting, a paint contractor, located outside Bloomington, told Shabazz that similar to the findings in NFIB’s recent survey, he is still struggling with inflation, supply chain issues, and problems hiring workers.
Spatta says most of his customers are hiring his small business for smaller projects and staying away from big ticket items. He thinks it’s because they are worried about inflation – he certainly is. Spatta has had to raise prices on customers several times over the past few years so he could pay his employees more because he knows they are also dealing with inflation
Supply chain issues have also factored into Spatta’s decision to raise his prices. Spatta says the cost of paint has gone up so frequently that he calls his supplier once a week to double check prices since he says they’ve been raised unexpectedly so many times before.
Robinson says there are two outstanding issues after this legislative session that are also impacting small businesses in a negative manner. Eliminating the business personal property tax, which disincentivies small businesses from purchasing equipment. Robinson said Indiana has strong budget reserves and urges legislators to take the opportunity to elminate or increase exemption.
The second issue is residential property taxes. As the assesed value of property in Indiana continues to rise, Robinson says legislators need to take action. Last legislative session, a proposal was introduced but ultimatley failed to cross the finishline.
State:
Get to know NFIB
NFIB is a member-driven organization advocating on behalf of small and independent businesses nationwide.
Related Articles

May 8, 2025
NFIB Applauds Governor Ivey’s Support for Small Business
Small businesses are the backbone of Alabama’s economy.
Read More

May 7, 2025
Small Business IFPI Employer Workforce Survey
The Indiana Fiscal Policy Institute encourages NFIB members to participate…
Read More

May 6, 2025
Watch Now: Indiana Legislative Recap Virtual Event
NFIB’s Natalie Robinson hosted a virtual event to explain the session
Read More

April 30, 2025
Indiana General Assembly Completes 2025 Legislative Session
Learn about small business highlights from this session
Read More