Letter: Do more to help small businesses

Small businesses are the engines that drive the American economy, and nowhere is that truer than in Illinois.

Small businesses account for 98 percent of all Illinois businesses, employing over 2.4 million workers and generating billions in revenue. However, the cost of owning a small business in Illinois has become prohibitively expensive thanks to many factors. Small business owners in Illinois are feeling the squeeze from all sides.

Business tax hikes have made it increasingly difficult for small businesses to turn a profit. High energy costs are putting even more pressure on small-business owners. Minimum-wage hikes, while well-intentioned, have made it difficult for small businesses to compete with larger corporations. And new workers' compensation and liability costs have made it harder for small businesses to afford the insurance they need to protect themselves and their employees.

These factors add up quickly and contribute to a growing sense of frustration among Illinois' small-business owners. Many struggle to keep their doors open.

It's time for state lawmakers in Springfield to take action to lower the burden on our small -business community. This could include tax breaks for small businesses, subsidies for energy costs, and exemptions from minimum wage hikes. It could also mean simplifying workers' comp and liability insurance requirements to make them more affordable and accessible for small businesses.

At the end of the day, the success of Main Street is crucial to the success of the Illinois economy. Small businesses create jobs, drive innovation, and contribute to the vibrancy of our communities. But they can only do so if given the support they need to thrive.

It's time for state lawmakers to step up and provide that support by passing reforms that make owning a small business in Illinois more affordable and sustainable.

Josh McBroom

Naperville