The Pennsylvania General Assembly was in session last week and will return to Harrisburg on Monday October 21st for the final three scheduled days of the 2023-24 legislative session
Keystone Save Legislation Moves Forward: Complete our Action Alert to Stop This Government Mandate!
A big mandate is on the way for small businesses. The House Finance Committee recently approved the creation of an automatic, state-facilitated retirement program in Pennsylvania called Keystone Saves. We need to act NOW to stop this from becoming law!
Keystone Saves would target small businesses who do not currently offer retirement plans. While the program claims to come at no cost or burden to business owners, similar programs in other states have proven otherwise. At a time when small businesses are struggling, the Commonwealth should be looking at ways to help. Instead, a state-run, auto-IRA program puts the state in direct competition with small businesses.
TAKE ACTION: Let your lawmakers know small businesses cannot afford another government mandate!
Improvement of State Tax Appeals Process to Become Law
We are happy to report that NFIB supported legislation to improve the state tax appeals process, Senate Bill 1051, passed and will be signed into law.
“Under current law, the Board of Finance & Review does not possess the statutory authority to direct and oversee a formal settlement process when appropriate,” explained Senator Scott Hutchinson, the bill’s sponsor. “Senate Bill 1051 modifies the appeals process to encourage settlements, meaning more appeals will be resolved without a final board decision or need to go to Commonwealth Court.”
NFIB state director Greg Moreland released the following statement on the passage of this important legislative reform, “Governments shouldn’t make things more complicated for business owners, they should be looking for opportunities to ease the burden of paperwork, taxes, and compliance issues. This legislation is critical for the small business owner, as it provides more flexibility in the filing and appeals process. Simply put, the tax code is extremely confusing, and many small business owners aren’t experts. They are human and may accidentally miss a filing. This legislation will help provide them a remedy, rather than a penalty.”
NFIB applauds the legislature for passing SB 1051 and looks forward to working with them on additional common-sense reforms that will positively impact small business.
Pennsylvania Coalition for Civil Justice Reform: House Liability Reform Legislative Package a Critical Step in Countering Lawsuit Abuse
NFIB recently joined state Representative Torren Ecker, legislative leaders, the Coalition for Civil Justice Reform, and other business leaders to announce a package of bills to counter lawsuit abuse in Pennsylvania.
Emphasizing the impact of excessive litigation on families and businesses, Rep. Ecker stated, “Our civil justice system must protect the innocent while eliminating the burdens that hinder growth. By reforming our tort system, we can create an environment where innovation thrives, and all Pennsylvanians can enjoy a higher quality of life.”
Click here to read more and to watch the press conference.
