Palmetto State News

Small businesses in South Carolina achieved notable successes during the recent legislative session. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) State Director Ben Homeyer highlighted the involvement of NFIB members in influencing legislative outcomes.

"Our members really stepped up and engaged with their senators and representatives and succeeded in passing several key components of the Small Business Bill of Rights," said Homeyer.

Key measures that were passed include HB 4832, which creates private insurance to cover paid family leave, and HB 3992, establishing a payment plan for delinquent unemployment insurance taxes. Additionally, HB 4187 was passed, making organized retail theft a felony; however, there are unresolved details between House and Senate members. This bill has been sent to a conference committee and may not be finalized until lawmakers reconvene in Columbia in January.

Homeyer noted that one significant piece of legislation that did not pass was Senate Bill 533. "One important piece of legislation that didn’t pass was Senate Bill 533, a measure that would have helped small businesses by helping stop lawsuit abuse in the state," he stated. He emphasized the challenges small businesses face without large legal departments to handle frivolous claims. "The cost of defending itself against a single meritless lawsuit could be enough to force a small business to close its doors for good," Homeyer added. He affirmed NFIB's commitment to pursuing tort reforms when the legislature returns in 2025.

The Small Business Bill of Rights was identified as NFIB’s primary focus this session. In March, they initiated two statewide radio and digital ad campaigns urging voters to advocate for pro-small business legislation aimed at revitalizing Main Street and safeguarding small business owners and employees.