Oregon’s National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has outlined its legislative priorities for the 2026 session of the Oregon State Legislature. The organization announced it will focus on five key issues that it believes are important to small business owners in the state.
“These five issues are just the start of our work this year to promote and protect the right of our members to own, operate, and grow their small businesses,” said Anthony Smith, state director for NFIB in Oregon. “With more than 250 bills introduced today, there are numerous threats and opportunities before us. With affordability top of mind for Oregon households and small businesses, it’s disappointing to see so many legislative measures that would increase costs and further weaken Oregon’s already fragile economy.”
The first item on NFIB’s agenda is support for federal tax conformity through House Bill 4015. The group says aligning with the federal tax code could give significant tax relief to small businesses at the state level.
NFIB also opposes House Bill 4089, which expands criminal penalties related to wage claims and introduces a new felony charge for hiring unlicensed labor contractors. Penalties under this bill could include up to five years in prison or a $125,000 fine.
Another concern is Senate Bill 1506, which proposes raising the Workers’ Benefit Fund tax. NFIB argues that this would increase taxes on both employers and employees without benefiting injured workers directly.
House Bill 4098 is also opposed by NFIB because it creates a private right of action under Oregon’s Unlawful Trade Practices Act. The organization warns this could lead to more lawsuits and higher insurance costs for policyholders.
Lastly, NFIB stands against Senate Bill 1505, which would establish industry-specific labor standards boards made up of unelected appointees. According to NFIB, these boards would lack accountability to Oregonians.
NFIB encourages those interested in updates about small business news in Oregon to visit its website or follow its X account at @NFIB_OR.
The association has represented independent business owners across all states since its founding in 1943 as a nonprofit and nonpartisan group dedicated solely to small businesses.
