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After years of struggle,
proposals dash spirits
of small businesses

We're killing the "Goose that Lays the Golden Eggs." The well-known children's tale describes the problems that befall a town when the villagers kill the goose that laid the golden eggs. Unfortunately, the majority in the Legislature are not heeding the sage advice of this tale, and instead continue to propose bills that would kill our golden goose -- small businesses.

Hawaii's local businesses have struggled through 10 years of difficult economic times, only now to emerge with some sense that they can expand their companies. Many of these businesses are in my district; I talk to their owners frequently. They are saddened that the Legislature has again failed to enact any kind of workers' compensation reform that would lower their insurance costs.

More disconcerting, there are bills that would hamper the way they conduct their family-run businesses. Proposals such as mandatory meal breaks or not allowing employers to discipline staff who abuse sick leave are but two examples. Other measures would affect temporary disability insurance costs or force changes in the minimum wage.

Even a proposal to establish a small business "Bill of Rights" died in the House Judiciary Committee. It would have set basic standards of how government offices deal with small companies, ensuring they get a fair hearing and requiring that government rules not unduly affect them.

The owners of the small shops and stores along the Liliha corridor of my district know what it is like to work long hours and pay their taxes. For the most part, they treat their employees well, conduct their business fairly and do not need legislators in the state Capitol telling them how to operate.

What they do need is some sense of hope and respect for what they contribute to Hawaii's economy. In particular, many are anxious to have the Legislature enact a bill that would lower the unemployment insurance taxes they must pay. For many of them this is the only piece of legislation that is likely to improve their business climate.

Some legislators have complained that business people do not come to the state Capitol and testify about their problems and desires in person. The fact is that business owners are stretched too thin just trying to juggle the demands of family and operating their stores and shops. They should not have to come to the Capitol to defend the very livelihoods they daily try to maintain.

In this final quarter of the legislative session, I urge my colleagues to drop proposals that will continue to kill off the initiative and entrepreneurial spirit of our small-business sector. After all, these are the golden geese that feather the nests of our state, provide jobs and keep our economy vibrant.

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