WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 7, 2026) – NFIB’s April Jobs Report shows softening in the employment market as the Small Business Employment Index fell 1.2 points to 100.4. This is the second consecutive month the Index declined. The current reading is now below the 2025 average of 101.2, but slightly above
Each month, NFIB surveys a random sample of its small-business membership to better understand economic trends and the current state of Main Street.
Having the right state and federal policies in place is most vital in times of uncertainty
Maine is projected to gain 6,000 new jobs annually over the next 10 years if the deduction remains in place.
VT is projected to gain 3,000 new jobs annually over the next 10 years if the deduction remains in place.
NH is projected to gain 6,000 new jobs annually over the next 10 years if the deduction remains in place.
Will the benefits of federal relief overcome the high-tax environment created by state and local government in the Commonwealth?
In Rhode Island, will the benefits of federal relief overcome the high-tax environment created by state and local government?
CT is projected to gain 14,000 new jobs annually over the next 10 years if the deduction remains in place.
The March Small Business Economic Trends report sees a three-point decline in small business optimism. Following suit, the Employment Index also fell two points.
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