Tom Donohue of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce discusses the landscape for America’s job creators — small businesses — which create three out of four jobs. In addition to detailing their desire for certainty on taxes, health care costs, and regulations, Donohue also points out survey results that show what those who fuel our economy don’t want.
With some certainty on these issues, small businesses will be able to hire, invest, innovate, and expand with greater confidence. This, in turn, will drive stronger growth across the economy.
What employers don’t want is government exerting too much power or control over their businesses. Only 5% of the small business owners surveyed were interested in “government assistance.” The government’s legitimate role in business is to set the rules of the road; ensure health, safety, and lawful behavior; and foster a policy environment that allows our free market economy to thrive. Beyond that, government can help most by staying out of the way.
In other words, let American ingenuity thrive. And unfortunately, the prevailing view in Washington is to do the opposite.
Here in North Carolina, there is a road map for returning our state to prosperity. You’ll find information about the John Locke Foundation’s book, First in Freedom, here.
