Ocean State Today

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has responded to Governor Dan McKee's 2025 State of the State Address. The statement, issued by NFIB Rhode Island State Director Christopher Carlozzi, highlights concerns about potential tax increases on small businesses in Rhode Island.

Carlozzi emphasized the importance of maintaining a competitive environment for small businesses in the state. "In order to stay competitive, Rhode Island must refrain from raising taxes on small businesses," he stated. Despite projected budget deficits, Carlozzi noted that "the answer is never raising taxes on the state’s job creators, Main Street businesses."

He expressed approval of Governor McKee's announcement that broad-based tax increases will be avoided and urged legislative bodies to support this stance. "NFIB is pleased that Governor McKee announced that broad-based tax increases will be avoided, and now the House and Senate should follow suit or risk stymying economic growth," Carlozzi said.

Carlozzi also underscored the significance of small businesses to the state's economy. He remarked, "Small businesses are the engines that drive the economy, and they have struggled to survive in Rhode Island." He pointed out how tax and regulatory environments impact these businesses' financial health: "When the cost of doing business goes up, prices go up, jobs and business growth are negatively impacted, and the state’s economy continues to lag."

In conclusion, Carlozzi called for adherence to Governor McKee's commitment regarding taxes as a measure to improve affordability in Rhode Island: "To make Rhode Island more affordable, the Governor must hold to his commitment on taxes."

For over 80 years, NFIB has represented small business interests across America. As a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization founded in 1943, it remains dedicated exclusively to advocating for small and independent business owners nationwide.