Calls on Governor Evers to Sign Reform Measures into Law.
MADISON WI (Feb. 12, 2026) – The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Wisconsin’s leading small business advocacy organization, released the following statement in response to the Legislature’s passage of the “Red Tape Reset” Package.
“States with fewer regulations experience faster economic growth, higher productivity, and greater competitiveness,” said NFIB Wisconsin State Director Luke Bacher. “The Legislature’s passage of the Red Tape Reset is a significant step toward relief from burdensome and unnecessary regulations. The small businesses of the state call on Governor Evers to sign this package into law to ensure Wisconsin’s business climate fosters growth and prosperity.”
Why These Bills Are Important to Small Businesses
- More predictable and up‑to‑date regulations
Requiring every rule to be reviewed at least every seven years helps prevent outdated or unclear requirements from remaining in place. For small businesses—who often have fewer resources to track regulatory changes—this can reduce confusion and compliance burdens. - Protection from unlawful or improperly adopted rules
Allowing individuals to recover attorneys’ fees when they successfully challenge an unlawful rule lowers the financial risk of pushing back against regulations adopted without proper authority. Small businesses, in particular, may lack the budget to challenge rules that negatively affect them. - Earlier notice and clearer rulemaking processes
Stronger scope‑statement requirements and limits on emergency rule scope statements increase transparency. This gives small businesses more time to understand proposed changes, prepare for compliance costs, and make their voices heard before rules are finalized. - Limiting cost increases from new regulations
Requiring agencies to identify offsetting rule reductions before adopting costly new rules helps ensure that regulatory burdens do not steadily increase. For small businesses operating with tight margins, slowing or balancing new costs can help protect profitability and stability.
