In the midst of changing times, your business needs an advocate that speaks your language. At the Chamber, we work tirelessly to shape policies, ideas, and opportunities that improve the business environment.
We make the voice of West Michigan business heard in Lansing and beyond so that your company can save money and create jobs.
Priorities that you shape
Each year, we engage members in setting a course for change in Michigan by focusing on specific policies that will spur business growth. More than 80% of our members are small businesses, so our advocacy is especially geared toward their unique needs. In 2012, we are focusing on:
• A balanced state budget that relies on efficiencies and costsaving measures rather than new or increased taxes and fees.
• Elimination of the Personal Property Tax on business machinery, furnishings, and office equipment.
• Developing future-focused school curriculum that will lead to a career-ready workforce with skills for where Michigan businesses are headed.
• Strengthening transportation and infrastructure systems, such as roads and bridges, so that it is easier for business to happen in Michigan and long-term repairs are less costly.
• Opposing health care mandates that increase employer costs.
• Reforming Medicaid to stop $2 million in costs that have been shifted to employers.
• Ending over-regulation, such as fees and permit processing inefficiencies that stifle business growth.
• Backing the New International Trade Crossing, a bridge that will support 109,000 jobs in West Michigan.
More details regarding our 2012 Legislative Priorities can be found here.