NFIB State Director Gregg Thompson said the North Carolina office of the National Federation of Independent Business has delivered the results of its 2026 state member ballot to members of the General Assembly. The results reflect small business owners’ views on right to repair, the state’s regulatory process, and disaster relief.

“Our members want practical solutions to the issues affecting their small businesses,” Thompson said. “We need lawmakers to make things easier for Main Street, not harder.”

NFIB’s public policy positions are set entirely by its members. Each year, NFIB ballots its members on state and federal issues that affect their businesses. Every member business gets one vote, regardless of size. The survey results come less than one month before the legislative session begins April 21.

Right to repair

Nearly 89% of respondents support legislation allowing customers and independent repair shops to access the information they need from manufacturers to fix products, often referred to as “right to repair.”

“Small businesses depend on their equipment every day, and when something breaks, they need to fix it quickly and affordably,” Thompson said. “Too often, manufacturers restrict access to parts or repair information, which drives up costs and causes delays. Giving owners and local repair shops the right to repair keeps businesses running and reduces unnecessary expenses.”

Regulatory relief

Eighty-eight percent said the state should waive fines and penalties for first-time regulatory errors, giving small businesses a chance to correct honest mistakes.

“Most small business owners are trying to follow the rules, but regulations can be complex and confusing,” Thompson said. “Waiving fines for first-time mistakes gives them a chance to fix the issue without facing a costly penalty. It’s a fair, common-sense approach that focuses on compliance instead of punishment.”

Disaster loans

In addition, 79.8% of small business owners support creating a fund to provide low-interest loans to businesses affected by natural disasters, a direct response to the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in September 2024.

“Helene reminded everyone that a disaster can strike anywhere, at any time,” Thompson said. “When something bad happens, small businesses are often left scrambling to recover while dealing with lost revenue and unexpected repair costs.

“Low-interest loans can make the difference between reopening and closing for good. This kind of support helps communities recover faster and keeps local economies strong.”

Consistent safety standards

Finally, 72.6% of respondents say North Carolina should prevent local governments from imposing workplace regulations beyond existing federal OSHA standards for employees working in extreme temperatures.

“Small business owners care about the safety of their employees, but a patchwork of local rules makes it harder for them to stay compliant, especially if they operate in multiple jurisdictions,” Thompson said. “Our members need clear, consistent standards they can follow. Keeping these rules at the federal level helps avoid confusion and unnecessary burdens.”

He said, “Small businesses are the backbone of North Carolina’s economy. By addressing these issues, the General Assembly can help ensure North Carolina remains a place where small businesses can grow, create jobs, and serve their communities.”