When businesses succeed, Americans succeed. Businesses create jobs, grow our economy, and improve the quality of life in communities across the country. But right now, businesses — big and small — are being held back.
Fill me in: A wave of federal regulations issued over the past four years has created more red tape than many companies can manage.
- “This unprecedented bureaucratic micromanagement of business will cost the economy $1.8 trillion and trickle down into Americans’ lives and pocketbooks through higher prices, lower wages, and fewer jobs,” Chamber President and CEO Suzanne P. Clark said at the State of American Business 2025 program.
Why it matters: Regulations are becoming an increasingly heavy burden for businesses of all sizes. According to a survey by the U.S. Chamber and MetLife, over half of small business owners say this red tape prevents them from growing. Every dollar spent navigating these rules is a dollar that’s not being invested into job creation, innovation, or local communities.
What can be done: Reducing excessive regulations isn’t just about helping businesses — it’s about helping people. The Trump Administration has the opportunity to significantly cut the regulatory burden on businesses.
- One tool is reinstating a regulatory budget, which was a hallmark of President Trump’s first term.
- Another is adopting outcome-based approaches to allow companies to find creative and efficient solutions.
Congress must lead too. It can shape a regulatory process that serves the people. This means overturning rules that hinder growth and fostering a system that’s transparent, fair, and works for businesses and people.
Bottom line: The U.S. Chamber of Commerce launched the Growth and Opportunity Imperative to help our elected leaders enact policies that achieve at least 3% sustained annual economic growth.
- Growth is essential for America to retain its competitive edge, create new opportunities for families, and ensure that the promise of prosperity is felt by everyone. Regulations are holding us back from achieving this goal.
- By taking steps to reduce this burden, Washington can unlock the full potential of American free enterprise.
- Less red tape means more jobs, higher wages, and stronger neighborhoods. It’s time to seize this opportunity to build a pro-growth environment that works for all Americans.
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