Gov. Scott Walker has signed an executive order that gives the state’s Small Business Regulatory Review Board more power to review the impact of government regulations and increase state government’s flexibility in helping companies comply with regulations.
During a visit to Dynamic Displays in Eau Claire, Walker signed Executive Order 61, which he called an important step toward making Wisconsin an easier place to start, expand, or relocate a business.
The order is an extension of a 2011 law that increased small business representation on the review board, established reduced fines for minor violations, and directs agencies to consider written warnings for rule violations made by small businesses who act in good faith to comply with a rule.
“Giving small business owners a seat at the table when discussing state regulations will help get buy-in for rules and regulations from employers, assist state agencies in promulgating rules that are realistic, and ultimately grow jobs in Wisconsin,” Walker said during his visit to Eau Claire.
The National Federation of Independent Business claims that Wisconsin small businesses spend 80% more per worker than large employers to comply with government regulations.
EO 61 requires all state agencies to cooperate with the Small Business Regulatory Review Board to identify rules that hinder job creation and small business growth. State agencies also are directed to recommend changes to the rules that reduce the compliance burden on employers.
