Old Dominion News

NFIB State Director Julia Hammond has responded to CNBC's ranking of Virginia as the top state for business. She attributes this achievement to efforts by Governor Youngkin and supporters in the General Assembly, highlighting their understanding of what businesses need to thrive.

Hammond emphasized the impact of the Small Business Recovery Plan passed in 2022, which included regulatory reform, financial assistance, and unemployment insurance reforms. "Today’s news confirms that Governor Youngkin and our supporters in the General Assembly understand what it takes to help small businesses and large corporations succeed," she stated.

The plan received full support from NFIB's small business members. In addition, Governor Youngkin signed the Private Family Leave Insurance Act, enabling employers to purchase paid family leave insurance. According to Hammond, these measures were crucial in helping Main Street businesses recover from economic challenges due to COVID-19 shutdowns.

However, she noted that there is still work to be done. "Our small business members believe there’s still room for improvement," Hammond remarked. She called for meaningful tax reform as a necessary step for alleviating financial pressures on businesses and promoting expansion and job creation.

Hammond confirmed that tax reform will be among NFIB's top priorities when the General Assembly reconvenes in Richmond in January.