Speaking for Nevada - January 2001

Working the Hill for Nevada's Small Business Community

by Shelley Berkley

It is often said that small business is the backbone of the American economy. This is certainly true of Nevada, where 95 percent of businesses are classified as small. Small business is the most dynamic sector of our economy, and offers the greatest growth in jobs and product innovation. More than half the new jobs created in Nevada may be credited to small businesses. Time and again, it is reported that Nevada is one of the most advantageous states for business start-ups and expansions. Our state is business-friendly, and my job in Washington, D.C. is to promote national policies that directly benefit the small business sector of Nevada.

Recognizing the importance of small businesses, I asked in 1999 to become a member of the House Committee on Small Business. This seat provides me with the opportunity to promote bi-partisan legislation to relieve burdens on small businesses and stimulate continued growth in the sector. I work with other members from both parties to advocate tax relief, access to capital, reduced government red tape and improved retirement and healthcare options.

My voting record reflects strong support for tax relief measures including elimination of the estate tax - the so-called "death tax." This tax places an often- disastrous burden on family businesses. I voted to eliminate this tax, and I also voted to override the veto of the bill that included a provision to eliminate the "death tax." I am hopeful that Congress will prevail in the near future and eliminate this tax.

I am a leading proponent of a 100 percent tax deduction for small business meals and entertainment expenses. Congress has taken partial steps to increase the deduction, but I offered a legislative amendment for a full 100 percent deduction. I look forward to passing this provision as soon as possible.

The tax code also needs reform in the areas of small business retirement and healthcare plans. Both the employer and the employee can benefit greatly by increasing the level of tax-exempt contributions and deductions for retirement and healthcare expenses. I am a co-sponsor of legislation to achieve these important objectives, both for small businesses and self-employed entrepreneurs.

In today's robust economy, with its emphasis on advanced technologies, developing a skilled work force is both a necessity and a challenge. I support substantial tax deductions to offset the cost of training skilled-trades workers and technical specialists. Business owners need fair treatment from our bankruptcy laws, to be able to collect debts they are rightfully owed. I voted for a major bankruptcy reform law that would treat business creditors fairly, and I will continue to support this type of legislation in the next session.

Having spent over 20 years working in the private sector, I know from first-hand experience that one of the most frustrating, costly problems facing business people is redundant, confusing and excessive government paperwork. I voted for legislation to lighten the load of federal paperwork. I believe federal requirements should be continually reviewed and new technologies applied to protect businesses from bureaucratic red tape.

I advocate government policies that increase the availability of small business investment capital. Business lending programs have a strong record of success, and have made the difference between success and failure for literally thousands of small businesses. I opposed ill-advised budget cuts that would have crippled the Small Business Administration’s ability to help businesses grow.

I find my work with the Committee on Small Business to be most satisfying, because I know that the right policies have a direct, positive impact on Nevada’s business owners and their families. We deal with practical, bottom-line solutions to help small businesses keep the economy growing. If you have questions or comments about legislation affecting small business, please contact my Washington, D.C. office, toll free, at (877) 409-2488.