House Bill 609 Receives Final Passage in the Senate

Frankfort, KY: With final passage of House Bill 609 by the state Senate, Governor Ernie Fletcher is poised to deliver on a central component of his economic development agenda.

"Small businesses are the backbone of Kentucky's economy.  Ninety-seven percent of Kentucky's businesses have fewer than 100 employees," wrote Governor Fletcher in his Prescription for Kentucky. 

HB 609 gives small business-through the Commission on Small Business Advocacy-a formal seat at the table to comment on regulations during the public comment period.  This input will lead to a more business friendly environment as the impact of regulations on small business is considered before they go on the books.

"The 'Small Business Regulatory Fairness"™ initiative sends the right signals that Kentucky is open for business.  Kentucky should encourage entrepreneurship, growth in small business, and the jobs that go along with both," stated Governor Fletcher.

 Studies show that if the regulatory burden on KY business was reduced by 5%, employers would have an additional $450 million to invest in health care, business expansion and jobs. 

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