MADISON WI (March 23, 2026) – The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Wisconsin’s leading small business advocacy organization, expressed deep disappointment in response to Governor Evers’ veto of the “Red Tape Reset” Package.

“States with fewer regulations experience faster economic growth, higher productivity, and greater competitiveness,” said NFIB Wisconsin State Director Luke Bacher. “Wisconsin is the 13th most regulated state in the country and 2nd worst in the Midwest. This unnecessary overregulation is costly and only hurts small businesses, employees, and our local economies.”

In his veto message, Evers defended bureaucrats over small businesses, stating the legislation “would impose an undue administrative burden on state agencies.”

“Governor Evers’ message was clear: he stands with the bureaucrats and government agencies over Main Street,” said Bacher.  “We appreciate the legislature’s continued understanding of the challenges small business owners face. Now, we just need to get a pro-small business governor elected to provide much-needed regulatory relief.”

In fact, a study by the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty found that reducing the state’s regulatory burden by just 10% could increase Wisconsin’s GDP by $6.6 billion.  Further, public support is strong as evidenced by polling from the Institute for Reforming Government where 67% of likely Wisconsin voters support requiring legislative review of any regulation that has been in effect for more than seven years.

“Small businesses do not have specialized staff to help them interpret and comply with regulations,” explained Bacher.  “This creates an unfair burden on small business owners that ultimately inhibits growth and prosperity not only for the owner, but for employees as well.”

Why These Bills Are Important to Small Businesses

• Limiting cost increases from new regulations
• Protection from unlawful or improperly adopted rules
• More predictable and up‑to‑date regulations
• Earlier notice and clearer rulemaking processes