Small business owners from across South Carolina are set to convene at the State House on Tuesday for Small Business Day at the Capitol. The event is organized by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce. Participants will advocate for reforming legal and tax systems to benefit small businesses.
The day will commence at 10:30 a.m. on the grounds of the State House. Notable speakers scheduled to appear include Governor Henry McMaster and Senate President Thomas Alexander, representing District 1.
Ben Homeyer, NFIB State Director, emphasized the importance of reform to support small businesses. “Small businesses are the backbone of South Carolina’s economy, but uncertainty in the tax code and unchecked lawsuit abuse undermine their ability to plan, invest, and support their communities,” Homeyer stated. “We need legal reforms that protect entrepreneurs from frivolous claims, and a tax system that is simple and transparent.”
During the event, NFIB members will request legislative support for specific initiatives:
1. Legislation S.244, designed to combat lawsuit abuse. According to Homeyer, “You shouldn’t be targeted for a lawsuit simply because some trial lawyer thinks you have the deepest pockets. S.244 is commonsense legislation that would help reduce frivolous and overreaching claims by ensuring that small business owners and other defendants are held liable only for their fair share of damages.”
2. H.4216, a measure aimed at income tax reform, proposes reducing the state’s individual income tax rate from 6.2% to 3.99%. Homeyer noted, “For small employers, certainty and simplicity in the tax code—along with competitive rates—are critical factors in planning for growth and sustainability. This bill moves South Carolina in the right direction.”
He further explained that these proposed reforms would establish a more predictable and fair business climate. “These reforms will create a more predictable and fair business climate and enable Main Street entrepreneurs to reinvest, expand, and create jobs without being hamstrung by unnecessary costs or uncertainty,” Homeyer concluded.
