Question: List two ways East Bay legislators can help local businesses.

Joseph DePasquale — Independent:

(1) By supporting the RI Local Investment Act, offering 50% state tax credit credits to residents investing in certified small businesses.This channels community wealth directly into local Main Streets, reducing reliance on traditional out-of-state financial institutions.

(2) By capping utility profit margins on delivery fees at 4%, this legislation lowers overhead, protects local companies from volatile monthly spikes, and keeps more operating capital within the East Bay small business economy.

Nicole Jellinek — Democrat:

1. Make it easier for businesses to operate, grow and succeed: simplify and speed up permitting and licensing, including requiring state agencies to process applications within a defined period. Invest in workforce training and infrastructure to support hiring and improved operations.

2. Expand financial assistance by advocating for grants, affordable loans, and tax incentives that help shops, restaurants, and other small businesses reduce expenses, invest in improvements operations, and create jobs. Offer targeted startup assistance for new businesses.