SE Valley Times

Members of the U.S. Chamber's Small Business Council visited Capitol Hill to discuss how tax policies affect their businesses. This visit comes as lawmakers face a critical juncture in 2025, with many provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire.

Over forty members of the council, which serves as a policy and advocacy group for small business owners, met with congressional offices and media outlets. They emphasized several key points regarding tax policies: the importance of the 20% pass-through deduction for reinvestment, the benefits of a low corporate tax rate on supply chains and consumer spending, and the role of research and development as an investment in both technology and people. These discussions highlighted the need for tax policies that promote economic growth locally and nationally.

Before engaging with lawmakers, the council members participated in a Q&A session with a senior Republican Senator's tax counsel to discuss potential components of next year's tax package. While on Capitol Hill, they also engaged with staff from House and Senate offices representing Arizona, Utah, Illinois, Maryland, and Virginia.

Mike Zaffaroni from Liberty Landscape Supply in Jacksonville stressed that "deducting capital purchases immediately" is vital for small businesses without large balance sheets. Traci Tapani from Wyoming Machine Inc. emphasized that a competitive tax code supports manufacturing growth in the U.S., while Victoria Thomas from Kellymoss highlighted its necessity for sustaining business expansion. Hrag Kalebjian from Henry’s House of Coffee pointed out that reinvesting rather than paying taxes allows businesses to grow by offering employee benefits or purchasing equipment.

The visit included interviews with America's Small Business Network (ASBN), where business owners shared insights about federal policies' impacts on their operations. The Small Business Council plans to return early next year to continue advocating for favorable tax policies in Congress.

The U.S. Chamber's Growing America’s Future Campaign advocates for pro-growth tax strategies aimed at boosting economic performance, raising wages, and improving living standards across America.