It’s a recurring theme among our members, “Why can’t government let me run my business instead of regulating me to death? I wish they would just once say, ‘I am here to help,’ and not ‘I am here to regulate, inspect or audit you.’”

Regulatory reform will be among the Minnesota Chamber’s priorities for the 2012 Legislature. Our initiatives include continued streamlining of the environmental review and permit systems. But we know businesses are frustrated by regulations in a variety of areas.

Consider this example from Red Wing Shoe Co. which was told it no longer could leave doors to its work floor open to provide some ventilation and allow workers to go outside for breaks. The directive came from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security since Red Wing Shoes imports and exports footwear. Consequently, in order to provide an appropriate work environment, the company felt compelled to install a $750,000 air conditioning/dehumidification system. And because Minnesota corporate income taxes are apportioned on capital investment, the company’s state income taxes went up as it invested to make a better workplace for its Minnesota employees! It’s no wonder that Minnesota businesses complain about the regulatory environment.

The Minnesota Chamber’s efforts at the Capitol are most effective when we can provide policy-makers with examples. If you are aggravated by regulations, please forward the specifics to Laura Bordelon, senior vice president for advocacy, at lbordelon@mnchamber.com.