NFIB Honors Two Ohio State Legislators as “Guardians”
By Terry Troy
While political news is taking center stage these days, small business optimism is continuing to grow, according to the NFIB Optimism Index. In August, the Optimism Index increased 1.4 points to 100.2, a reading slightly above the historical 46-year average, according to the organization.
Seven of the 10 Index components improved, two declined, and one was unchanged. The NFIB Uncertainty Index increased two points in August to 90, the second-highest reading since 2017. The record reading of 100 was reached in November 2016.
“Small businesses are working hard to recover from the state shutdowns and effects of COVID-19,” said NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg. “We are seeing areas of improvement in the small business economy, as job openings and plans to hire are increasing, but many small businesses are still struggling and are uncertain about what the future will hold.”
This month, the NFIB also presented its prestigious Guardians of Small Business Award to State Representative Niraj Antani, Ohio house District 42, and State Senator Matt Dolan, Ohio Senate District 24, in recognition for their outstanding efforts to support small business issues in the Ohio Legislature.
“Representative Antani has a distinguished record in the Ohio Legislature. During that time, he has been a staunch supporter of Ohio’s small businesses, maintaining a 100% lifetime voting record with NFIB,” said Roger Geiger, Executive Director of NFIB in Ohio. “He consistently reaches out to the business community on key issues, understanding that growing Ohio’s economy begins with the entrepreneurs of the state who create two out of three new jobs and are leaders in their communities. Our organization is proud to recognize him for his outstanding support.
“Senator Dolan has an impressive record on small business issues in the Ohio General Assembly. During his tenure there, he has been a steady and strong advocate of Ohio’s small businesses, maintaining a 91% lifetime voting record with NFIB,” Geiger added. “His work to maintain the business investor deduction during the 133rd Ohio General Assembly was an important piece of tax policy for small business owners and is appreciated by our members. Senator Dolan is truly deserving of this recognition.”
The recognition dates back to 1988, with the recently elected Ohio Speaker of the House of Representatives, Speaker Bob Cupp being the first recipient.
“I am so thankful to NFIB for this award. Every day at the Ohio Statehouse, I work hard to fight for small business owners and their employees, as they are the engine of our economy. I look forward to continuing to work with NFIB on advancing small business issues,” said Representative Niraj Antani.
“Small businesses represent a big part of Ohio’s economy. My focus is to make Ohio a fertile ground for businesses to grow and flourish,” said Senator Matt Dolan. “I am honored to be recognized by a group that is such a tremendous advocate for our small businesses.”
