Last week, the Neponset River Regional Chamber along with, NFIB MA, the Retailers Association of Massachusetts and Massachusetts Restaurant association, hosted Massachusetts Small Business Day on Beacon Hill, bringing business owners from around the Commonwealth to Boston to discuss the challenges they face with state officials, business allies, and NFIB policy experts.

Dedham Representative, Paul McMurtry, Chairman of the Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses welcomed attendees followed by legislative updates from Christopher Carlozzi, Jon Hurst of the Retailers Association of Massachusetts, and Stephen Clark of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association. 

Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll then provided a keynote speech on some of the challenges facing the Commonwealth. Driscoll raised Massachusetts’ affordability and competitive issues and steps the Healey Administration is taking to help. 

The program ended with a panel discussion on rising energy expenses and the need to balance the switch to renewable energy with the realities of supply and cost. The panel was made up of Bill Ryan of the Mass Coalition for Sustainable Energy, Blair Hastey of Enbridge Energy, and Bob Rio of RAR Strategies.  

Throughout the day, speakers saluted the activism of small business owners and urged participants to stay focused and engaged as the General Court considers bills that impact their businesses.

In his closing remarks, Chris Carlozzi said, “The voice of small business was heard loud and clear on Beacon Hill. Our members discussed high taxes, overregulation, affordable healthcare, labor mandates, energy costs, and the overriding need of relief for Main Street businesses. Our employer organizations and their members stand ready to work with Governor Healey and lawmakers to improve Massachusetts’ economy and fuel small business job creators.”

Tom O'Rourke, CCE

President and CEO