The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has expressed concerns over legislation discussed during a U.S. Senate labor hearing, arguing it could negatively impact small businesses. The hearing, titled "Labor Law Reform Part 1: Diagnosing the Issues, Exploring Current Proposals," was held by the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP).
Dylan Rosnick, NFIB Principal of Federal Government Relations, said that many small businesses are struggling to fill job openings due to a lack of qualified workers. He criticized Congress for not addressing the challenges faced by these businesses, particularly the impact of regulations on employment costs. "Millions of small businesses have job openings but are unable to find qualified workers. Yet, Members of Congress continue to ignore the challenges faced by small businesses, specifically the role that burdensome regulations play in increasing the cost of employment," Rosnick said.
Rosnick also highlighted that most small businesses lack human resources departments or legal teams to manage complex regulatory issues. Despite this, he noted bipartisan proposals in Congress that could threaten these businesses and their workforce. "The overwhelming majority of small businesses do not have HR departments or lawyers to assist with burdensome and time-consuming regulatory issues. This reality has not detracted bipartisan proposals in Congress that would directly threaten small businesses and their workforce."
NFIB recently published a white paper titled "Direct Assault on Main Street: Looming Labor Threats That Could Decimate Small Businesses and Their Workforce." The document examines potential labor policy threats affecting small enterprises and their employees.
In addition, NFIB's latest Problems & Priorities survey revealed that finding qualified employees is the fifth most pressing issue for small business owners, while excessive government regulations rank seventh.
Rosnick concluded by expressing NFIB's willingness to collaborate with lawmakers to oppose these legislative proposals during the 119th Congress. "We look forward to working with you to fight these proposals and protect small businesses and their workers from federal government overregulation and government intrusion during the 119th Congress."
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