SMALL BUSINESS AGREES WITH BRANSTAD: IOWA IS ON THE RISE

DES MOINES (January 13, 2015) Today the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is applauding Governor Branstad for his focus on job creation and open, transparent government in today’s state of the state speech. 

Yesterday, Iowa NFIB State Director Kristin Failor called for Governor Branstad to find a way to streamline the regulatory process to allow businesses to operate while maintaining the integrity of the process in a way that will provide cost savings not only to small business proprietors, but to tax payers as well.

Failor was pleased to hear Branstad state during his remarks that in 2015 he will focus on making government open, accessible and easier to navigate. “By facilitating a process that will allow small business and government interaction in an open and productive way, Governor Branstad will make the experience of conducting business in Iowa more pleasant and affordable.” Said Failor. “I often hear from our members that nonsensical regulation is cumbersome and costly. Lessening that burden will allow our small business owners to put their time and energy into expanding their businesses and improving their products.” 

Branstad also requested that the legislature pass legislation giving rural Iowa the broadband capability to connect not only Iowan communities, but 21st century careers, through the “connect every acre” plan. Failor was thrilled at the possibility of elevating Iowan technological capabilities. “The Governor is clearly committed to maintaining Iowa’s continued growth by improving the infrastructure for broadband and allowing Iowans unprecedented access.” Continued Failor. 

As Iowa’s roads deteriorate, Branstad faces a difficult choice regarding how he will fund the looming crisis. According to the Governor, a recently completed Battelle study demonstrates the need to take a hard look at adequate road funding. The study shows that without action, funding available for road and bridge maintenance will fall short of what is needed to remain competitive and, more importantly, safe.

“We look forward to learning more about the alternatives to funding the infrastructure program.” Stated Failor. “Small business owners are always focused on maintaining a competitive edge and are hoping that together with the Governor, the legislature will find a creative, effective solution to ensuring Iowa roads will improve over the coming years.”