February 12, 2026 by Clement Troutman, Franchisee, Tropical Smoothie Café & PJ’s Coffee
Last year, when Congress passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, it offered a lifeline to entrepreneurs like me everywhere. Not only were existing tax cuts extended, but new ones — like “No Tax on Tips” — were implemented, plus questions about the estate tax were put to rest forever.
Business owners do not see in terms of red or blue or political ideology, but only common sense.
This year, lawmakers can provide another shot in the arm for small business owners, especially those like me in the franchise community. Even better, this opportunity is bipartisan.
Called the American Franchise Act, this bill has widespread support in both chambers of Congress. For elected officials wanting to show their constituents their commitment to small business owners, it is the perfect chance, especially to those of us without MBAs or traditional pedigrees.
In 2017, without any background in business or food, I opened my first family run Tropical Smoothie Café location in Capitol Heights, Maryland. I had spent my life in the U.S. Navy and as a government contractor and was looking for a next step that would allow me to give back and support my community.
A decade later, we opened a second location and employ 80 people. Our first PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans opens in March, and we have plans to continue growing.
Read the entire article in The Well News HERE.