The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), which represents thousands of small businesses in the state, expressed frustration today after the Environment Committee passed the Transpiration Climate Initiate (TCI) out of that committee. The initiative, if passed, would cause higher transportation costs to small business owners across Connecticut. It’s a burden that could be the final nail in the coffin to small businesses that are already struggling thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a recent NFIB survey, thirteen percent of our small business owners report they will have to close their doors if current economic conditions do not improve in the next six months.

“While our small business owners are all for cleaner air and a well-funded transportation infrastructure, Connecticut lawmakers can find a better way,” said Andy Markowski, NFIB State Director in Connecticut. “Many of our small businesses owners have had to shut their doors. Others are still struggling to stay open after the pandemic. If Connecticut lawmakers increase the cost for small business owners to stay in business, what they’re really doing is giving them another mandate that could force them out of business.”

NFIB challenges lawmakers to think about the consequences if this bill passes. Small businesses like restaurants that deliver food so people in Connecticut can stay in their homes and not risk exposure to COVID-19, essential workers like plumbers and electricians, and construction companies who are trying to work to keep Connecticut’s economy running during this health and economic crisis would pay under this legislation.

Our small busines owners have already been punished enough with shutdowns, restrictions, and capacity limits. Each additional mandate lawmakers force on our job creators is one more reason they could shut down forever.