Small Businesses Drive Local Economic Growth

By Blake Jackson

Small businesses continue playing an important role in supporting local economies across Pennsylvania by creating jobs, investing in communities, and helping family farms and manufacturers remain competitive. Leaders say policies that support small business growth can strengthen economic activity across both rural and urban areas.

Lloyd Smucker recently highlighted the importance of small businesses during National Small Business Week in an opinion article published by the York Daily Record. Smucker explained how small businesses support local communities, provide employment opportunities, and help maintain economic growth across York and Lancaster counties.

“As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, it's worth remembering that America has always depended on people willing to bet on themselves. That same spirit is alive today in the small business owners across our region.” said Rep. Smucker.

Smucker shared his personal experience growing up in Lancaster County in an Old Order Amish family and later building a drywall business that expanded to employ more than 150 people. He said those experiences shaped his support for policies that help small businesses grow and invest in their operations.

The congressman also discussed the Main Street Tax Certainty Act, legislation he introduced to make the Section 199A small business tax deduction permanent. The tax deduction supports pass-through businesses whose income is reported on personal tax returns rather than corporate filings.

“Many small businesses are structured as "pass-through" entities, meaning their business income is reported on the owner's personal tax return rather than being taxed as a corporation. The deduction helps ensure those businesses are not placed at a disadvantage compared to larger corporations benefitting from the 21% corporate tax rate.” said Rep. Smucker.

Smucker highlighted examples from local businesses, including construction companies, manufacturers, and dairy farms, that used tax savings to purchase equipment, increase wages, improve facilities, and support future operations.

He also stressed the need for stronger workforce development programs and additional training opportunities to help businesses find skilled workers. Leaders believe continued support for small businesses, agriculture, and manufacturing will remain important for long-term economic growth across Pennsylvania communities.

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