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Business Owner's ManualFederal Regulations
All businesses must comply with federal tax regulations (see the Structuring a Business and Tax Planning chapters) and with regulations governing employment (see Employer Guidelines). Other than the above, the most important federal regulations impacting small businesses are those involving environmental and health and safety issues. Remember, federal environmental rules are not necessarily same the state's, so you need to check both.
Resources You can learn about many applicable federal regulations though state and some City agencies. In addition to the Small Business Ombudsman and the City's Environmental Economic Development Assistance Unit, the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation at 1-800-780-7227 or the Environmental Ombudsman Unit of Empire State Development Corporation at 1-800-782-8369 can be of assistance. You might also contact federal agencies directly. The Environmental Protection Agency has an Internet site focusing on the needs of small businesses. The EPA Small Business Ombudsman Hotline is 1-800-368-5888. The Regional Office is at 212-637-3000. If you have employees (other than yourself), you are subject to the federal Occupational Health and Safety Act, which requires you to provide a safe and healthy workplace. OSHA is particularly relevant for manufacturers and businesses using dangerous equipment or hazardous materials. On OSHA's Small Business Web site, various publications such as the Handbook for Small Businesses (OSHA Publication 2209) can be downloaded free of charge. Or, call 212-337-2378. For more help with federal regulations, check the U.S. Small Business Administration's US Business Advisor Web site. Note: The 1996 Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA) provides new avenues for small business to participate in and have greater influence over the development of regulations, additional compliance assistance (through the Small Business Development Centers ["SBDCs"]) and new enforcement tools. To find an SBDC near you, try the SBDC National Information Clearinghouse. For more information about SBREFA, visit the SBA Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman Web site.
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