State level governance impacts us all

The state lawmakers had failed to see that they would affect business owners all over their states in the form of additional costs. The businesses, dealers, parts stores, shops and fleet owners all supported our position that the fees would amount to fines, enacted after-the-fact on something that was completely legal at the time.

I cannot imagine the outcome had this been taken up as a federal issue.

Noteworthy Shifts

Much of the hullabaloo taking place in Washington, D.C., recently is related to the gradual transfer of power from the states to the federal government that has been occurring over the past many decades.

Not to get all “10th Ammendment-ish” or anything, but we the people have allowed and encouraged this to take place. And now, there is no money to cover the massive costs.

One significant shift that we see coming in the future is a “re-transfer” of much of the legislative power back to the state governments. Many highly visible governors and state legislatures are showing very strong leadership in keeping Washington in its constitutional place, and demonstrating that the states are better suited to handle local interests.

Local Involvement

Keep in mind, regardless of their title or pedigree, lawmakers work for us.

My point is: We all need to work toward shaping the future of this country.

Getting to know your elected officials, both federal and state, has never been more important.

Get your elected officials out to your place of business. Make them a part of what you encounter with all of the new laws and regulations.

Elected officials are mostly just regular people like you and me. However, they need a better understanding of how their actions affect your livelihood.