Tray Abney, the state director for the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) in Nevada, expressed concerns regarding the ongoing uncertainty faced by small business owners. Abney made this statement in a press release on March 11.
"Inflation remains a concern, as does finding quality employees," said Abney. "We urge them not to impose any more burdens on small businesses. Vastly enhanced paid leave mandates and inviting lawsuit abuse."
According to the NFIB, lawsuit abuse in Nevada poses a significant threat to small businesses by potentially increasing legal costs and deterring entrepreneurship. The organization is actively working to prevent legislation that would expand private rights of action, which could lead to a surge in costly and unnecessary lawsuits. NFIB noted that such legal changes would place an undue burden on small business owners, diverting resources away from growth and job creation.
The King County Bar reports that small businesses disproportionately bear the costs of lawsuits, accounting for approximately $160 billion out of $347 billion in total liability costs. Legal experts warn that excessive litigation not only drains financial resources but also forces small business owners to navigate complex and costly legal battles. As concerns over lawsuit abuse grow, advocates emphasize the need for reforms to protect small enterprises from predatory legal practices that threaten their stability and growth.
In Nevada, proposed legislation introducing private rights of action could significantly alter the legal landscape by making it easier for employees to file lawsuits directly against their employers. This shift has raised concerns among small business owners, who fear an increase in costly litigation and prolonged legal battles. If enacted, these measures could heighten financial and operational risks for small businesses, diverting resources away from growth and job creation, as per the NFIB.
According to the NFIB, Abney is not only the Nevada state director for the NFIB but also a partner at the Nevada-based government affairs firm Abney Tauchen Group. He previously served as director of government relations for the Reno+Sparks Chamber of Commerce and has extensive experience in legislative affairs.