SE Illinois News

Darren Bailey would like to see the State of Illinois more in tune with the times.

With the first week of May marking National Small Business Appreciation Week, Bailey found it fitting to call attention to the substandard way in which he feels state government interacts with small business owners across the state.

“I think there are a few groups around that strive to do good things to aid our small business owners; but when it comes to state lawmakers, that’s a different matter,” Bailey told the SE Illinois News. “The combination of the highest taxes in (the) nation, highest rates for workman’s compensation and lack of tort reform makes it hard for them to survive and get a leg up for themselves.”

Bailey, a Xenia Republican who is running against Democrat Cynthia Given of Olney in the 109th House District, said state lawmakers would be wise to incorporate more of that kind of spirit into the way they legislate.

“Regulations by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency continue to hamper this part of our community,” he added. “Every law passed these days seems to be one more requirement for small business owners.”

Bailey points to legislation aimed at raising the state minimum wage as an example of legislation he thinks will impose even more undue burden on small business owners.

“We’ve got to cut wasteful spending,” he added. “The state is spending too much on things not benefiting the state and that has consequences for everybody."

Bailey said he has a plan he hopes will stem the tide and start to turn things around for the small business community. 

“I plan to speak up and get the message out about what’s happening,” he said. “I hope to work with others and create a movement for change.”

The 109th House District includes parts or all of Jasper, Effingham, Clay, Richland, Lawrence, Wabash, Wayne, Edwards and White counties.