MADISON (Feb. 20, 2024) – Following the introduction of LRB-1335/1, which would force employers of all sizes to participate in a state-run Paid Family Medical Leave program, NFIB State Director Bill G. Smith urged lawmakers to reject the proposal.

“The overwhelming majority – 84 percent – of Wisconsin small business owners oppose the creation of this mandate, not because they don’t support generous benefits for their employees but because they can’t afford a ‘one-size-fits-all’ program. Our job creators do everything they can to take care of their employees and meet their customers’ needs, but escalating costs are pushing them to the breaking point. Make no mistake: implementing a loosely defined, state-run program will result in fewer jobs, slashed wages, and higher costs for Wisconsin families. We ask lawmakers to reject this costly mandate.”

Background:

In NFIB Wisconsin’s member ballot, 84% of small business owners opposed the creation of this mandate.

A recent NFIB survey found that inflation remains a key obstacle for small business owners.