The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the nation’s leading small business advocacy organization, issued its 2025 legislative priorities for Iowa small businesses.

“Iowa’s small business owners are grappling with workforce shortages, burdensome regulations, and rising costs,” said Matt Everson, NFIB Iowa State Director. “If lawmakers want Iowa to continue to grow and thrive, they must prioritize small business legislation during the 2025 legislative session.”

NFIB Iowa’s 2025 legislative priorities include the following:

Property Tax Reform – Property taxes in Iowa are too high, uncompetitive and have increased by more than 150% in the last twenty years. NFIB is urging Iowa Legislators to continue to look at ways to cap city and county spending, limit property tax exemptions and equalize the playing field for ALL property taxpayers in Iowa.

Unemployment Insurance Tax Cuts – In 2025, Iowa employers will pay unemployment tax on the first $39,500 of each employee’s wages, which ranks second highest in the Midwest. NFIB is urging Iowa legislators to simplify the unemployment insurance tax brackets and lower the wage base threshold to remain competitive with neighboring states. This will be a significant tax cut for small businesses, while keeping the Unemployment Trust Fund solvent.

Energy Regulation Reform – While profits for Iowa energy companies have dramatically increased over the past few years, Iowa small businesses and their employees’ energy costs have continued to climb higher over the past several years. NFIB is urging Iowa legislators to look for ways to protect small businesses and their employees from skyrocketing energy costs. Modernizing how energy is regulated, produced and consumed will help ensure Iowa’s economy stays competitive and continues to grow.