Nassau County Small Businesses May See Boost

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 15:47 GMT by Patch
      Locales: New York, UNITED STATES

Nassau County Poised for Small Business Boost: Assemblymember Mul's Legislation Aims to Revitalize Local Economy

MERRICK, NY - A wave of optimism is building amongst Nassau County's small business community as Assemblymember Micheal Mul (D-Brightwaters) champions legislation designed to significantly reduce bureaucratic hurdles and financial strain. Announced Monday alongside a powerful coalition of business leaders and fellow legislators, the proposed law promises a streamlined path to success for the county's entrepreneurial backbone.

For years, Nassau County's small business owners have voiced concerns about the complex web of paperwork, escalating permit fees, and the sheer difficulty of navigating county processes. These obstacles, while often unintentional, have created a drag on growth, innovation, and ultimately, job creation. Mul's legislation directly addresses these pain points, proposing a multi-pronged approach to create a more business-friendly environment.

The core of the proposal focuses on a thorough review and simplification of existing paperwork requirements. Many businesses, particularly startups, are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of forms and documentation needed to comply with local regulations. Mul's office indicated that the legislation would mandate a "plain language" requirement for all county forms, making them easily understandable for even the most novice entrepreneur. Furthermore, the bill seeks to consolidate redundant forms and transition towards digital submission wherever possible, reducing both paper consumption and processing time.

Beyond paperwork reduction, a critical component of the legislation involves a substantial reduction in permit fees. These fees, which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the nature of the business, represent a significant financial burden, especially for businesses operating on tight margins. Mul argues that reducing these costs will free up capital for investment in growth, hiring, and innovation. The specifics of the fee reductions are still being finalized, but the aim is to strike a balance between providing relief to businesses and maintaining essential county services.

Recognizing that simply reducing paperwork and fees isn't enough, the legislation also proposes the establishment of a robust technical assistance program. This program, administered through a partnership between Nassau County and the Small Business Advocacy Council, would provide free or low-cost counseling, workshops, and online resources to help businesses navigate the county's regulatory landscape. Topics covered would include permitting, zoning, tax compliance, and access to capital.

Eileen Maccini, chair of the Small Business Advocacy Council, enthusiastically endorsed the legislation. "For too long, small businesses have been weighed down by unnecessary bureaucracy," she stated. "This legislation is a game-changer. It's not just about saving money; it's about saving time and allowing our entrepreneurs to focus on what they do best: creating jobs and serving our community." Maccini's organization estimates the cumulative impact of the legislation could save Nassau County businesses thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours annually.

The Small Business Advocacy Council's support is particularly significant. The non-profit has been a leading voice for small business interests in New York for years, conducting research, advocating for policy changes, and providing resources to entrepreneurs. Their backing lends credibility to the legislation and strengthens its chances of passage.

While the legislation enjoys broad support from business groups, some questions remain regarding its potential impact on county revenue. Critics argue that reducing permit fees could necessitate cuts to other vital county services. Mul, however, maintains that the long-term economic benefits of fostering a thriving small business sector will far outweigh any short-term revenue losses. He points to studies showing that vibrant small business communities contribute significantly to local tax revenue through increased economic activity and job growth.

The Nassau County Legislature is expected to begin reviewing the legislation in the coming weeks. Public hearings are planned to allow business owners and community members to voice their opinions. The bill's future hinges on securing enough votes within the Legislature, but given the widespread support, its prospects appear promising. This legislation, if passed, could mark a turning point for Nassau County's small businesses, unleashing their full potential and driving economic growth for years to come.