(The Center Square) – Despite the ongoing challenges of finding employees , small businesses are a little more optimistic.

The National Federation of Small Business’ Optimism Index showed a rise of 1.2 points in July to 100.3, above the 52-year average of 98. Businesses are citing better conditions and expansion possibilities as the reason.

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While the report does not offer state-specific data, NFIB Assistant State Director Cameron Garczyk pointed toward an extension of tax cuts as key to state businesses.

“Ohio’s s

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