By Michael Shaw

California Legislative Director. NFIB

Governor Schwarzenegger's plan to restore California's economy takes some important, targeted steps to create new jobs that will put our citizens back to work, but even more must be done.

”Accelerating construction projects, expanding the homebuyer tax credit and protecting businesses from frivolous lawsuits will help put more small businesses back on the road to recovery,” said John Kabateck, NFIB/California executive director.

As NFIB has said repeatedly, small business job creation is the only way out of this economic recession and we cannot afford to leave any small businesses behind.

However, the Governor and Legislature must take additional necessary steps to help all small businesses that are struggling in this economy. Problem one for California small businesses is the burden imposed by government regulations, and the Governor should move immediately to require all state agencies and departments to put a halt to measures that increase that burden.

Governor Schwarzenegger's address opened the doors with a sorely-needed clarion call to create jobs and economic recovery for our state. It is high time for our legislators to heed this call and do what is right, not just for their constituents but for all Californians. Good intentions and pats on the back along with a couple bucks will get you a cup of coffee, but real action is long overdue and what California needs today.

NFIB is the nation's leading small business association, with offices in Washington, D.C. and all 50 state capitals.