Last week, NFIB MA, along with the Retailers Association of Massachusetts and Massachusetts Restaurant association, hosted Massachusetts Small Business Day on Beacon Hill, bringing business owners from around the Commonwealth to Boston to discuss the challenges they face with state officials, business allies, and NFIB policy experts.

NFIB State Director Christopher Carlozzi addressed the importance of tax relief and the need for the state to shore-up the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund. “It’s always encouraging to see our members in Boston, taking time from their very busy workdays to talk with fellow small business owners, elected officials, and policymakers about the challenges they face,” said Carlozzi. “Small Business Day on Beacon Hill was a great success, and our members appreciate the lawmakers and state officials who engaged with them in frank discussions of the issues that matter to Main Street.”

Paul McMurtry, Chairman of the Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses welcomed attendees followed by legislative updates from Christopher Carlozzi, Jon Hurst of the Retailers Association of Massachusetts, and Stephen Clark of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association. 

Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll then provided a keynote speech on some of the challenges facing the Commonwealth. Driscoll raised Massachusetts’ affordability and competitive issues and steps the Healey Administration is taking to help. 

The program ended with a panel discussion on rising energy expenses. The panel was made up of Bill Ryan of the Mass Coalition for Sustainable Energy, Blair Hastey of Enbridge Energy, and Bob Rio of RAR Strategies.  

The event was free for attendees, thanks to the sponsorship of Enbridge Inc.

Throughout the day, speakers saluted the activism of small business owners and urged participants to stay focused and engaged as the General Court considers bills that impact their businesses. “The voice of small business was heard loud and clear on Beacon Hill,” said Carlozzi. “Our members discussed high taxes, overregulation, affordable healthcare, labor mandates, energy costs, and the overriding need of relief for Main Street businesses. NFIB and its members stand ready to work with Governor Healey and lawmakers to improve Massachusetts’ economy and fuel small business job creators.”

If you couldn’t make it to Boston, you can still join the Voice of Small Business by completing the action alert below. Take Action and Make Your Voice Heard!

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