Running a small pet store in Fairview Heights has always been both a rewarding and challenging experience.
Between high energy costs, rising taxes, and the constant threat of lawsuits, it feels like owning a business in Illinois comes with more obstacles and red tape every year.
As the owner of The Tye-Dyed Iguana, I have seen time and again how decisions made in Springfield make it harder for small businesses like mine to grow, hire, and give back to our communities.
Earlier this year, lawmakers passed SB 328, which invites out-of-state trial lawyers to file lawsuits in Illinois courts for cases that have no tangible connection to our state.
Lawmakers deciding to pass this legislation was clearly a handout for personal injury lawyers and a burden for small businesses already facing high premiums and legal costs.
Excessive litigation already costs businesses in the St. Louis area over $429 million every year, and this legislation will only serve to drive up expenses further.
Additionally, the regulatory burdens imposed by Springfield have created a lawsuit-friendly environment that has skyrocketed workers’ comp. rates for employers.
And as if the current business climate wasn’t bad enough, the recent veto session only delivered more bad news for business owners.
Legislators passed a “decoupling” bill that raises taxes by cutting ties with the federal tax cuts passed in 2017, among other poorly accepted legislation that will increase taxes for consumers.
Add it all up, and the message from Springfield is clear: small business owners aren’t a priority. If Illinois truly wants to attract and keep businesses, it needs to stop punishing the ones already here.
Matt Smallheer is the owner of The Tye-Dyed Iguana pet store in Fairview Heights, IL, and a member of the St. Clair County Board.
