Another area of concern, not surprisingly, is regulation. According to the U.S. Chamber, Federal agencies currently are implementing 500-plus required or suggested rules as a result of from Dodd-Frank Act, and 159 new agencies, commissions and other groups are being established as a result of the new health-care reform law. To counter this, Among its goals: obtaining independent evaluations of the economic and employment impact of major rules, as well as a periodic review of current regulations in order to sunset those found to be ineffective or unnecessary.

Regulation also is a concern for the businesses who are part of the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), says Chris Walters, senior manager for legislative affairs with the organization. Many view their relationship with the government as one of complying with regulations, whether it's tax, safety or the environment, he says. "They really see this as threatening their ability to grow jobs."

In January, the White House issued --- stating that agencies must propose regulations based only on "a reasoned determination that its benefits justify its costs," and "impose the least burden on society." In addition, Agencies were instructed, when possible, to specify performance objectives rather than specifying the behavior required.

To be sure, the Executive Orders begin a process -- signaling the Administration's recognition of some obstacles hampering efficiency in government spending and operations, and hurting growth in the private sector. Even so, "an Executive Order is not enough," says Walters of the NFIB.