Small Business Owners Call Congress for Tax and Spending Reforms as 2025 Begins

Small Business Leaders Voice Legislative Priorities for 2025

As 2025 unfolds with a new Congress, small business owners across the United States are vocalizing their legislative priorities in response to current economic challenges. A recent survey conducted by National Write Your Congressman (NWYC), dedicated to empowering small businesses, reveals that the top issues on the minds of these entrepreneurs are government spending, tax reform, and immigration.

According to NWYC's findings, many small business owners support the extension or permanence of tax cuts that were introduced in 2017. This sentiment stems from a clear need for financial stability and relief amidst rising operational costs. Randy Ford, the President and COO of NWYC, emphasized the importance of supporting these small businesses by advocating for their key concerns in Washington. He stated, "As a new Congress is sworn in, business owners are looking forward to a fresh start and a legislative agenda that will positively impact their business."

The survey results indicated that as President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his return to office, small business owners seek a focus on several critical areas during his first 100 days. These areas include streamlining government spending, reducing federal regulations, and implementing tax reforms tailored to alleviate burdens on small enterprises.

Comments from business leaders showcase the urgency of these issues. Brett Tanner, President of Pinnacle Trailer Sales, noted, "I hope 2025 is an opportunity to see business grow. We need lower taxes, less regulation, extreme cuts in government spending, energy independence, and pro-America trade deals."

Furthermore, the NWYC survey highlighted strong backing for various executive orders proposed by Trump. A significant 71% of business respondents expressed that they believe enhancing the efficiency of government agencies could positively influence their operations. Additionally, nearly 70% of the surveyed business leaders indicated that relaxing climate-related regulations to boost domestic energy production would be beneficial for their establishments.

As the nation transitions to a new administration, business leaders underscored the necessity for national unity. Brad Clubb, CEO of Flyway Excavating, expressed hope for healing divisions within a fractured country, while Richard T. Seaver, President of Viking Tool and Engineering, emphasized the importance of cooperative governance for the American populace.

However, despite these optimistic outlooks, the survey uncovers a more sobering reality. Approximately half of the respondents reported stagnant growth in their businesses over the past year. Moreover, around 30% of small business leaders experienced a decline, while only 20% noted their businesses have seen growth. Steve Jones, the Owner of On Time Logistics, reflected on his experience, stating, "We were able to grow this past year after two years of declines even though we did not see a huge change in market conditions."

Innovative strategies were also highlighted by business owners striving to maintain or increase their sales. Stacey Sullivan, who operates Sullivan Enterprises in Boise, Idaho, shared her success by adding an apprentice program for pet stylists. She stated, "I have been able to add skilled stylists to the local workforce and maintain a high level of sales with a built-in source of new skilled staff."

The methodology behind NWYC's survey involved gathering responses from over 518 business leaders across 44 U.S. states from December 20 to December 31, 2024. Of those surveyed, 61% employed between one and nine people, while 36% employed ten to ninety-nine.

Since its establishment in 1958, NWYC has committed to providing tools, information, and research to advocate for small businesses and help them connect effectively with their representatives in Washington. As the largest nonpartisan membership organization for small businesses, NWYC aims to ensure that business owners are informed and empowered to engage actively in shaping legislation that impacts their operations.

For further insights and activities, visit NWYC.