NC Press Releases
A Memorable Visit: Vice President Stops by Leah and Louise By Subrina Collier, owner of Leah and Louise As a small business owner, every day brings its own set of challenges and rewards. But last Thursday was a day unlike any other at our restaurant Leah and Louise. We had the honor of welcoming the Vice President of the United States Kamala Harris, a moment that my team and I will cherish forever. The visit was a surprise. The day before her arrival five staffers from the Vice President's team came in to gather information and enjoy our Afro-Southern-inspired cuisine. Little did we know, they were paving the way for a very special guest. The next day, about 15 minutes before the Vice President's arrival, her staff informed us of her upcoming visit. When Vice President Harris arrived, she immediately expressed her admiration for our restaurant. She was interested in our experiences with the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. I shared our story of resilience during COVID, how these programs were lifelines that kept us afloat, enabling us to pivot to curbside service when the pandemic hit – just as we were about to open our doors for the first time. The Vice President was keen to understand how we were managing and what it meant to be entrepreneurs. Madame Vice President Harris’ warmth and personality shone through during her visit. She ate our Mud Island dish, a tribute to a part of Memphis, Tennessee, which includes catfish and rice grits, followed by some delicious cobblers. She enjoyed it so much she suggested that my husband, Chef Greg, publish a cookbook! The visit, though brief, was incredibly meaningful. Madame Vice President Harris took the time to interact with our staff and guests, leaving a lasting impression on all of us. As she departed, we were left with a sense of pride and gratitude – not just for her visit but for the support and recognition from our administration towards small businesses like ours. This experience was a reminder of the strength and resilience of the small business community. It reinforced the importance of programs like the PPP and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, which have been crucial in helping businesses like ours navigate unprecedented challenges. As we continue to serve our community and share our love for Afro-Southern cuisine, we do so with renewed vigor and optimism, inspired by the Vice President's visit and the ongoing support for small businesses across the country.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Nazirah Ahmad nazirah@emccommunications.com (704) 290-6869 Small business group applauds $82 million investment in high-speed internet, funding will boost North Carolina Main Street businesses and families Statement by Small Business for America’s Future network member Dr. Valerie Benton Smith, Ph.D., President, Greater NC Black Chamber of Commerce on President Biden’s visit to Raleigh, North Carolina Raleigh, N.C. Jan. 18, 2024 –“We are pleased to hear that thousands of North Carolina residents will soon be connected to high-speed internet thanks to an $82 million dollar investment included in the American Rescue Plan’s (ARP) Capital Projects Fund. This combined with funding included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law means over $3 billion will be spent in our state to lower internet costs for families. “High-speed internet is a crucial part of the infrastructure of small businesses that helps them innovate. For far too long many of our rural small businesses have suffered without reliable connectivity and exorbitant costs have prevented other entrepreneurs from growth. This investment will be a game-changer helping to close the digital divide. “It will also help the North Carolina economy continue its upward trajectory. Since 2021, businesses in North Carolina have created 441,200 jobs and there’s been a drop in the unemployment rate from 5.6 percent to 3.5 percent. This growth is happening because of common sense policies like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. We need more policies that create an economic environment that supports small businesses. “It’s why we are urging lawmakers to remember Main Street as we approach yet another government shutdown deadline. According to a new Small Business for America’s Future survey , 95% of small business owners believe stable government leadership is important to the overall health of the economy and small business. “It’s our hope that a federal spending plan will be in place on time and that leaders will focus on a long-term solution and other policies that support Main Street businesses.” To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future network member Dr. Valerie Benton Smith, Ph.D., contact Nazirah Ahmad at nazirah@emccommunications.com or (704) 290-6869. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a coalition of small business owners and leaders nationwide working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize Main Street by advancing a just and equitable economic framework that works for small business owners, their employees, and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. #SmallBizAF.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com ( 6 17) 875-6581 North Carolina small business owners say the healthcare market is broken, broadly support solutions to bring down costs As the average annual price for employer-sponsored family health coverage reaches $23,968, NC small business owners say the high costs are hindering their ability to grow and hire and support a wide range of policies to rein in costs. Wednesday, December 13, 2023 –The North Carolina responses in a new Small Business for America’s Future survey of 1,015 small business owners across the country reveals that 88% of participants believe the healthcare market is broken and shows strong support for legislative solutions ranging from regulating anti-competitive practices to boosting price transparency in billing in order to bring down the costs. Annual premiums for employer-sponsored family health coverage reached $23,968 in 2023, with workers on average paying $6,575 toward the cost of their coverage. Seventy-six percent of North Carolina small businesses participating in the survey said that the cost of healthcare impacts their businesses and constrains their ability to grow and hire and causes them to raise prices for their goods and services. "In North Carolina, small business owners are confronted with the harsh reality of increasing healthcare costs, hindering the ability to thrive and invest in their businesses and hire in our communities,” said Jim Duffett, Director of Small Business for America’s Future North Carolina. Key findings from the survey include: 62% experienced increased premiums last year, with more than one in ten facing more than a 15% hike, indicating the severity of rising healthcare costs. 76% of the small business owners surveyed indicated that healthcare costs impact their business’s bottom line. 78% of respondents do not offer health insurance, mainly hindered by the high cost (67%), emphasizing the necessity for affordable healthcare options. Small business owners surveyed showed considerable support for legislative measures like price transparency (79%), site-neutral billing (72%), regulating anti-competitive practices (78%) and facility fees (67%) with 83% responding that it is extremely important for hospitals to clearly disclose facility fees to patients before they receive care. “The high cost of healthcare forces owners to either go without, which hampers their ability to hire quality employees and jeopardizes their health, or cuts into their bottom line significantly, holding back their ability to grow and create new jobs,” said Duffet. “It’s no wonder they support any number of policies that attempt to bring down costs. They are desperate for solutions. Our leaders need to act. Passing smart policies will unlock a lot of entrepreneurial activity—and the jobs and economic activity that benefit all our communities.” Senate Bill 321 passed the North Carolina Senate in May with bipartisan support but stalled on the House floor. The proposed legislation includes provisions that would limit medical debt interest rates and increase transparency by requiring medical facilities to post price information online. View the North Carolina and national survey reports here . To schedule an interview with Jim Duffett, Director of Small Business for America’s Future North Carolina or other small business owners contact: Janel Knight Trulear at janel@emccommunications.com or (617) 875-6581. # # # About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a coalition of small business owners and leaders nationwide working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize Main Street by advancing a just and equitable economic framework that works for small business owners, their employees and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com ( 6 17) 875-6581 STATEMENT: President’s Economic Vision Paying off for Small Business Small Business for America’s Future Co-chair Anne Zimmerman comments on President Joe Biden's economic speech and commitment to bolstering small businesses June 28, 2023– President Biden's speech today detailing his middle-out approach to the economy rings true for the small business community, because we’ve already seen how smart government investments in key sectors of the economy can spark growth that benefits Main Street. We are encouraged by the president's commitment to large-scale investments in infrastructure and manufacturing, which are vital sectors directly impacting the prosperity and stability of small businesses. Investment in infrastructure across the U.S., including providing high-speed internet connectivity to everyone, has direct benefits for small businesses. Enhanced infrastructure and improved internet connectivity can aid businesses in reaching a broader customer base, improving their operations, and participating in digital commerce more effectively. SBAF's surveys of small business owners provide solid backing for such policies. In fact, an overwhelming 76% of small business owners recognize that these substantial investments will boost the economy. Moreover, a strong 72% are confident that the president’s economic investments in infrastructure and manufacturing will directly aid their businesses, offering them opportunities for expansion and consolidation. Most small business owners are members of the middle-class who are the focus of this economic approach. Their operations are the lifeblood of local economies, creating jobs and fostering community development. This focus on bolstering key sectors, therefore, serves to enhance their capacities and broaden their horizons. Small businesses and the communities where they operate stand to gain immensely from investments that lead to a robust, fair economy underpinned by substantial infrastructure and manufacturing investments. Lawmakers in Washington should follow the president’s lead and focus on creating policies that will stimulate economic growth, support small businesses, and by extension, ensure the prosperity of our communities and the nation as a whole. Here is what small business owners are saying about the speech: "As a small business owner, I can attest to the positive potential of President Biden's economic vision. I see the direct benefits of increased infrastructure and manufacturing investments in my operations. This kind of attention to the needs of Main Street businesses is precisely what we need to recover from the hardships of the past years and propel us into a prosperous future." -Stephanie Rowell, Founder of Chamilleon Enterprises, Chicago, IL "I support President Biden's strategic economic focus. The promise of significant investments in key sectors is music to my ears. These initiatives directly impact small business owners, driving growth and jobs in our communities. I'm encouraged by the president's recognition of our important role in the national economy." -Nat Rosasco, Owner of Olive Street Design, Elmhurst, IL "The president's approach to the economy is a breath of fresh air. His policies are set to bolster small businesses, like mine, by investing in infrastructure and manufacturing that provide us with opportunities to do business and the tools we need to compete. It's an approach that recognizes the importance of small business to the American economy, and as a middle-class business owner, I feel optimistic about what this means for the future of my business." -Channal Coleman, CEO and Founder of It's Official Barbershop, Chicago, IL “Small business owners are hard-working citizens who contribute greatly to the communities in which they operate. Minority small business owners have long understood that our success is interwoven with the success of the communities in which we operate much more than a larger corporation. Minority businesses employ individuals who live in the communities in which they operate much more than large firms and these workers are dependent upon their jobs to survive. While larger firms have experienced significant recovery post Covid, this has not been the case with small minority firms. I am excited by the prospects of how the president's Bidenomics plan can help stimulate growth for minority small businesses like mine too which is greatly needed”. - Suzanne Stantley, Founder & CEO of BE Group, Inc., Chicago, IL To request an interview with Small Business for America’s Future Network Co-Chair Anne Zimmerman or a small business owner, contact Janel Knight Trulear at 617-875-6581 or janel@emccommunications.com. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com ( 6 17) 875-6581 N.C. small business group commends SCOTUS Moore v. Harper decision, which safeguards democracy for a strong economy Statement by Small Business for America’s Future North Carolina Director Jim Duffett on SCOTUS “independent state legislature” theory ruling Raleigh, N.C., June 27, 2023– We are relieved by the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to reject the “independent state legislature” theory, affirming that the North Carolina Supreme Court did not exceed its authority in striking down the legislature’s excessively partisan congressional redistricting plan. This ruling upholds the principles of representative government and the essential role of checks and balances. The "independent state legislature" theory would have undermined the integrity of our electoral system and given state legislatures unchecked power in federal elections. This would have been damaging for small businesses as lawmakers in districts drawn to guarantee their re-election would pay no penalty for failing to address small business needs. In a survey of the Small Business for America’s Future network, 89% of small business owners said a well-functioning democracy is very important to a strong small business economy, and 78% said they are very concerned with the current state of our democracy. The same concerns were also discussed during a briefing by The Business and Democracy Initiative. Political stability is the cornerstone of thriving economies, communities, and businesses. It’s clear that this case was nothing but a power grab and an alarming attempt to manipulate our electoral system, posing a significant threat to both our democracy and our economy. Our hope is lawmakers will focus on legislation that supports a well-functioning democracy that prioritizes the needs of small businesses and promotes economic growth. To request an interview with a small business owner or SBAF North Carolina Director Jim Duffett, contact Janel Knight Trulear at (617) 875-6581 or janel@emccommunications.com. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com ( 6 17) 875-6581 Small Business Group Applauds Investment in Clean Energy Economy in North Carolina Small Business for America’s Future North Carolina Director Jim Duffett on Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm's visit to North Carolina on the ‘People Powered: Summer Road Trip’ Charlotte, North Carolina, June 26, 2023 —Small Business for America's Future applauds the Biden-Harris Administration’s focus on building a clean energy economy. It was a pleasure to see Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm travel to North Carolina to highlight clean energy work happening in the state. Historic investment in clean energy included in the Inflation Reduction Act will provide opportunities for our growing clean energy workforce and the small businesses that support it. The law is set to bring an estimated $2.7 billion of investment in large-scale clean power generation and storage to North Carolina between now and 2030. It will also help small businesses save money through tax credits to transition to support a sustainable economy. Investing in clean energy helps communities by creating new jobs, providing contracting opportunities for small businesses and spurring economic growth. That’s why the Act, the most significant climate legislation in history, was very popular among small business owners, with 75% supporting the climate provision, according to a Small Business for America’s Future survey. We hope our leaders in Washington stay committed to moving us forward in the fight against the climate crisis and supporting small businesses. These investments stimulate the creation of new markets for their products and services and simultaneously address one of the most pressing challenges of our era. It's a chance to empower small businesses while also making significant strides towards a sustainable future.. To request an interview with Jim Duffett, Small Business for America’s Future North Carolina Director, contact Janel Knight Trulear at (617) 875-6581 or janel@emccommunications.com. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com ( 6 17) 875-6581 STATEMENT: Career-connected learning and workforce training programs boosts the state economy and bolster the small business Statement by Small Business for America’s Future North Carolina Director Jim Duffett on President and First Lady’s visit to Rocky Mount and Fort Liberty, North Carolina Rocky Mount, N.C., June 9, 2023 – Today, the President and First Lady’s visit to Rocky Mount and Fort Liberty was an invaluable opportunity to showcase how career-connected learning and workforce training programs are equipping students with the skills needed to land well-paying jobs. We are glad to see President Biden emphasizing good jobs and the development of a skilled workforce for small businesses. Initiatives to improve economic mobility and racial equity by improving job quality must address the distinct needs of small businesses because this crucial business segment employs 52% of the nation’s 134 million workers and 65% of low-income workers . That’s why we are encouraged by fruitful discussions such as this to help shape the future of North Carolina’s workforce and economy. By fostering a relationship between education and industry, we can empower students to seize the opportunities emerging in the job market. This approach not only benefits our younger generation but also bolsters our small business community by providing a skilled and talented workforce that meets the demands of the economic resurgence. To request an interview with a Small Business for America’s Future North Carolina director Jim Duffett, contact Janel Knight Trulear at janel@emccommunications.com or 617-875-6581. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com ( 6 17) 875-6581 STATEMENT: Small Business Advocacy Group Applauds NC Senate for Passing S321, Urges House to Act Swiftly on Medical Debt Legislation Statement by Small Business for America’s Future North Carolina Director Jim Duffett in response to the North Carolina Senate unanimously passing S321 to help address healthcare costs and medical debt Raleigh, NC, May 3, 2023 —We are encouraged by the North Carolina Senate unanimously passing S321, the Medical Debt De-Weaponization Act. This legislation sets parameters around the provision of charity care and limits the ability of large medical facilities to charge unreasonable interest rates and employ unfair tactics in debt collection. We urge the North Carolina House to follow suit and pass S321 without delay. Recent studies have shown that medical debt is a significant issue for many North Carolinians, with one in five being contacted by a debt collector over an unpaid medical bill. By passing S321, the North Carolina General Assembly can make a meaningful difference in the lives of families and small business owners who are facing financial challenges due to medical debt. I encourage the North Carolina House to recognize the importance of addressing these pressing concerns for small business owners, some of whom have shared their stories in public forums about the issue. Implementing S321 will not only alleviate the burden of high healthcare costs on small businesses and their employees, but it will also protect families from the devastating impact of medical debt, ensuring a lifesaving procedure doesn't cost their life savings. We support this measure and eagerly anticipate the positive impact it will have on small businesses, local communities, and the North Carolina economy as a whole. To request an interview with Jim Duffett, Small Business for America’s Future North Carolina Director, or a North Carolina small business owner impacted by medical debt, contact Janel Knight Trulear at (617) 875-6581 or janel@emccommunications.com. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com ( 6 17) 875-6581 STATEMENT: Fiber optic cable manufactured in NC not only boosts the state economy, it helps deliver broadband to small businesses across the country Statement by Small Business for America’s Future North Carolina Director Jim Duffett on Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo visit to North Carolina manufacturers producing fiber optic cable March 29, 2023— It was exciting to witness Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo's visit to North Carolina today, where she announced new fiber-optic cable production aimed at strengthening broadband access. The manufacturing of fiber optic cable in our state not only boosts the local economy but also plays a crucial role in providing broadband access to small businesses across the nation. Investments like this from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will increase high-speed internet access—a necessity for businesses of all sizes to compete and thrive in today's digital landscape. By investing in fiber optic infrastructure expansion, the legislation aims to bridge the digital divide that has affected many communities. Importantly, this effort will enable small businesses to benefit from improved access to resources, customers, and markets, ultimately enhancing their competitiveness and growth potential. Choosing to manufacture fiber optic cable in North Carolina supports the domestic manufacturing industry, creating new opportunities for small businesses and jobs, while contributing to local economic growth. That is why 88% of small business owners supported the Bipartisan Infrastructure law and 66% believed it would help Main Street businesses. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and investments like this one represent positive steps toward rebuilding an economy impacted by the pandemic. These efforts will aid small businesses across the country, including those in North Carolina. Here’s what North Carolina small business owners are saying about Raimondo’s visit: “It is so great to see legislation like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because it is benefiting small business owners like me. Much needed infrastructure improvement projects, like the implementation of high-speed internet nationwide, are finally getting funded and small business owners who live and work here are receiving the help we need to improve quality of life and work.” Marie Torres Torres Transformations High Point, NC “Functional infrastructure is crucial to a thriving small business economy and this project is an example of what can be accomplished when the administration acts on the betterment of the people they serve. As a resident and business owner in North Carolina, I know that the investment in high-speed internet and the use of North Carolina-made fiber optic cables will be a boon to our economy and community.” Debra Talley Talley Up Accounting Services Henderson, NC “Small businesses and communities can’t thrive without functional infrastructure. The investment and implementation of North Carolina-made fiber optic cables will help our economy and improve our technology. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is proof of the success that can happen when political parties put their differences aside and focus on serving the people. We need our leaders to continue focusing on improving the economy and providing resources for small business owners.” David Meeker Trophy Brewery Raleigh, NC To request an interview with Jim Duffett, Small Business for America’s Future North Carolina Director, contact Janel Knight Trulear at (617) 875-6581 or janel@emccommunications.com. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com ( 6 17) 875-6581 Small Business Survey: North Carolina Owners Say Hospital Consolidations Contribute to High Healthcare Costs for Main Street The North Carolina results of a national survey of more than 1,000 small business owners show that Tar Heel State entrepreneurs believe the increasing pace of hospital consolidations is exacerbating the already high cost of healthcare and want action Raleigh, North Carolina, March 21, 2023— The North Carolina responses in a new national Small Business for America’s Future survey of 1,015 small business owners show that Main Street entrepreneurs in the Tar Heel State believe the increasing pace of hospital consolidations is exacerbating the high costs of healthcare and the vast majority support regulating consolidation and creating price controls. “North Carolina small business owners are eager for solutions to soaring costs so they and their employees can access affordable, quality healthcare,” said Jim Duffett, Director of Small Business for America’s Future North Carolina. “Better than most, small business owners understand that competition leads to better prices and innovation. While they are no doubt pleased with plans to expand Medicaid in the state, they would also welcome building on that momentum to find solutions to address hospital consolidation and the high prices it engenders.” Nearly 60% of North Carolina survey respondents said they have seen hospital consolidation in their communities and say this leads to less choice, longer wait times, and fewer services—in addition to driving up healthcare costs overall. 77% of North Carolina small business owners responding to the survey say that the consolidation of hospitals in their areas have made the overall availability and quality of healthcare services in their communities worse 67% say the availability and cost of health insurance has been negatively impacted by hospital consolidation 53% of small business owners say that hospital consolidation leads to a lack of competition making hospital services more expensive for employees and eating into their pay. 86% say it's important that federal and state governments intervene in the consolidation of health systems 94% say that hospitals are unfairly charging high prices leading to high healthcare costs and it's time for price regulation “Small business owners are being priced out of the ability to offer health insurance to their employees, and hospital consolidation is part of the reason why,” Duffett said. “The cost of healthcare is holding back their ability to invest in the growth and financial health of their businesses.” Small business owners across the country have long said high healthcare costs are their top policy priority. The national survey reaffirms that the expense is stifling the growth of America’s small businesses: 45% of small business owners nationally said the rising price of health insurance has led them to delay growth opportunities for their businesses 41% said they have increased the cost of goods and services More than a third have said they have become less competitive in hiring compared to other companies that provide health benefits What North Carolina small business owners are saying about the high cost of healthcare and hospital consolidation: “I am heartened to hear that legislators have reached a deal on expanding Medicaid in North Carolina. However, the efforts to lower healthcare costs should not stop there. Small business owners like myself are being crushed by rising healthcare costs, and we need our elected leaders to take action on issues like hospital consolidation, which drive up costs.” Brenda Campbell Superlative Academy Childcare Charlotte, North Carolina “Our health system is in need of change so more people can get care. One way is for policymakers to examine hospital consolidation that drives up healthcare prices. I am a strong believer in choice. I want to be able to research doctors and costs at different hospital systems. Many in North Carolina don’t have that option. All too often, hospital systems are able to set the price of care high because they know they are the only option.” Jeanelle Terry Faithful Homes LLC Charlotte, North Carolina “Expensive hospital services caused by hospital consolidation are eating into my employees' paychecks. Hospital consolidation is negatively impacting the availability and cost of health insurance for many North Carolina business owners. We need action.” Krish Parlikad V Guard Insurance Agency Inc Whitsett NC “Healthcare costs are becoming more exorbitant due to hospital consolidation. As a small business owner, I understand the value of competition, and a great way to address healthcare costs is by regulating hospital consolidation. Main Street deserves affordable access to healthcare.” CJ Scarlet CJ Scarlet LLC Clayton, NC “North Carolinians deserve quality healthcare at reasonable prices. High costs are causing small business owners like myself and our clients to raise prices, halt business growth, and even cut into employee paychecks. I urge our leaders to support policies that foster affordable healthcare for all.” Alicia Parr Performentor LLC Durham, NC View the full survey report here . To schedule an interview with a representative from Small Business for America’s Future contact: Janel Knight Trulear at janel@emccommunications.com or (617) 875-6581. ### About Small Business for America’s Future Small Business for America’s Future is a national coalition of small business owners and leaders working to provide small businesses a voice at every level of government. We’re committed to ensuring policymakers prioritize the nation’s 30 million small businesses to create an economy that works for them, their workers and their communities. Visit www.smallbusinessforamericasfuture.org . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . #SmallBizAF.
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