The North Carolina office of the National Federation of Independent Business delivered the results of its 2026 state member ballot to members of the General Assembly on Mar. 26. The ballot highlights small business owners’ views on issues such as right to repair, regulatory relief, disaster loans, and workplace safety standards.
The survey comes ahead of the legislative session beginning April 21 and outlines what small business owners consider priorities for supporting their operations. Gregg Thompson, NFIB State Director, said that practical solutions are needed for issues affecting small businesses. “Our members want practical solutions to the issues affecting their small businesses,” Thompson said. “We need lawmakers to make things easier for Main Street, not harder.”
According to Thompson, NFIB’s public policy positions are determined entirely by its members through annual ballots on state and federal matters impacting their businesses. Each member business receives one vote regardless of size.
Nearly 89% of respondents support legislation allowing customers and independent repair shops access to information from manufacturers necessary for fixing products—an issue known as “right to repair.” Thompson said this would help keep costs down and avoid delays: “Small businesses depend on their equipment every day, and when something breaks, they need to fix it quickly and affordably,” he said.
Eighty-eight percent favor waiving fines for first-time regulatory errors so that honest mistakes can be corrected without costly penalties. “Most small business owners are trying to follow the rules, but regulations can be complex and confusing,” Thompson said.
On disaster recovery, nearly four out of five respondents support creating a fund for low-interest loans following natural disasters like Hurricane Helene in September 2024. “Helene reminded everyone that a disaster can strike anywhere, at any time,” Thompson said.
Additionally, over seventy percent believe North Carolina should prevent local governments from imposing workplace regulations beyond existing federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards regarding extreme temperatures. “Our members need clear, consistent standards they can follow,” Thompson said.
Thompson concluded by emphasizing the importance of these legislative actions: “Small businesses are the backbone of North Carolina’s economy. By addressing these issues, the General Assembly can help ensure North Carolina remains a place where small businesses can grow, create jobs, and serve their communities.”
