The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Minnesota’s leading small business advocacy organization, sent the following statements regarding Governor Tim Walz’s latest press conference promoting the Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) mandate that goes into effect on January 1, 2026.

“Governor Walz claims the PFML mandate is about the quality of life but imagine what the quality of life will look like if your favorite mom-and-pop shops are forced to close their businesses,” said NFIB Minnesota State Director Jon Boesche. “This means less jobs for the community, and more families struggling to make ends meet. A one-size-fits-all mandate is not going to increase the quality of life in Minnesota. If anything, it’ll hurt small businesses throughout the state.”

“The PFML program may sound great to many Minnesotans, but the true impact that it will have on small businesses cannot be ignored,” said John Palmer, owner of Modern Traffic Services in St. Cloud, MN. “This mandate will cost me more as a small business owner, lessen the ability to hire more employees, and force me to raise the price of goods and services. And most importantly, if I close my business, I’ll struggle to make ends meet and put food on the table for my family. The PFML mandate may work for some businesses, but it will negatively impact my business, my family, and many others.”

NFIB has been a consistent leading voice in the debate regarding the Paid Family & Medical Leave mandate. The organization recently released a resource page for small business owners that includes information employers need to know, previous news stories, and a place for small business owners to share experiences and concerns.