Discover Resilience: 20 Stories of Small Business Triumphs in Unprecedented Times

How Small Businesses Are Advocating for Change During August Recess

Update Small Businesses Amplifying Their Voices Amid Legislative Challenges As Congress pushes forward with new legislation, small business owners across the nation find themselves increasingly vulnerable to rising costs and insufficient support. Small Business Majority recently facilitated a series of meetings during the August recess, giving entrepreneurs the opportunity to advocate for their interests and share their pressing concerns with lawmakers. Key issues include the substantial cuts to Medicaid funding and the challenges posed by tariff policies, both of which threaten the viability of many small businesses. The Impact of Medicaid Cuts on Business Health Recent data reveals an alarming connection between small businesses and Medicaid enrollment. Over 20% of small business owners, along with their employees and family members, rely on Medicaid for healthcare coverage. With $1.1 trillion in cuts looming due to the One Big Beautiful Act, many business leaders fear skyrocketing healthcare costs. Owners like Sydney Jackson-Clockston, who spoke passionately about her reliance on the enhanced premium tax credits, highlight the cascading effects of these policies. Having access to affordable healthcare not only supports personal well-being but is also integral to the ongoing operation of their businesses. Advocacy Events Creating Change Throughout August, events organized by Small Business Majority served as a powerful platform for discussing the pressing healthcare and taxation issues affecting small businesses. In Colorado, small business owners participated in roundtables with local representatives to express their concerns over increased healthcare costs and the effects of recent tariffs on their operations. The dialogue illustrates a growing recognition of the need for policymakers to engage directly with the small business community when crafting legislation. Understanding the Role of Tariff Policies This year has seen significant changes to tariff policies which have left many small business owners in turmoil. Meetings with elected officials revealed deep concerns about the implications of these tariffs—higher import taxes are likely to lead to increased consumer prices, and many businesses worry about the possibility of layoffs and hiring freezes. For small business owners already stretched thin, these challenges may jeopardize their ability to thrive in the current economic climate. Engaging in advocacy not only empowers small business owners to share their stories but also creates a direct line to policymakers. It’s vital for entrepreneurs to stand up and ensure their voices are heard, particularly during these challenging times. Small business owners are encouraged to remain active in discussions with their representatives to foster stronger support systems within the legislative landscape. By advocating for measures that support affordable healthcare and fair tariff policies, business leaders can contribute to shaping a more favorable environment for all entrepreneurs.