Bad policies hurting all small businesses

Illinois has serious decay eating away at the enamel of its economy. Tooth decay is caused by poor diet, bacteria and poor oral hygiene. Small businesses, which give Main Street its bite, are breaking down under the stacked costs imposed by hyperinflation and poor policy decisions.

I'm sure for many, a local dental practice like mine isn't the first business you'd think of when discussing challenges facing small businesses. But I assure you, it's not just the local hardware store or knickknack shop feeling the regulatory pinch.

My practice strives to provide top-notch and personalized dental care to our community, but the rising expenses of energy costs and medical liability are making operations increasingly more challenging. The layers of costs don't just encompass malpractice insurance and regulatory fees; they include everything from training to equipment. These burdens are creating financial strains that are stifling my ability to provide superior care to my patients.

The broader economic ramifications of continuing down this path are extremely concerning as our state is creating conditions that make it difficult for any business to survive. Starting a business six months prior to COVID and surviving that was difficult in itself. If this trend continues, it could lead to an environment where only large corporations thrive, leaving small businesses to wither and die.

I urge policymakers to consider the unique challenges that small business owners are facing. Thoughtful policies that reduce these burdens can lead to a more competitive landscape, ensuring that businesses of all sizes can succeed.

Let's work together to foster an environment where entrepreneurship and innovation can flourish unimpeded by crippling stacked costs.

Gregory Cygan

Wheaton