The Michigan Chamber of Commerce this afternoon announced its support for a plan to balance the state budget without raising taxes. The plan was announced earlier today in a news conference held by House Speaker Craig DeRoche, House Appropriations Committee Chair Scott Hummel and other members of the House Appropriations Committee.

"Working families and job providers across the state are facing tremendous economic uncertainty. Now is the time for the legislature to provide some economic certainty by moving forward promptly with a plan to balance the state budget without raising taxes," said Michigan Chamber President & CEO Jim Barrett.

"While many political observers and Governor Granholm said it couldn't be done, House Republicans are to be commended for developing a comprehensive plan to balance the state budget that will increase funding for K-12 education, while rejecting over $200 million in tax and fee increases recommended by the Administration," Barrett added.

"The Michigan Chamber strongly agrees with Speaker DeRoche that a balanced state budget is one of the keys to economic growth," said Rich Studley, Senior Vice President of Government Relations for the Michigan Chamber. "We are especially encouraged to see that House Republicans have rejected the $135 million budget-driven changes in tax policy recommended by Governor Granholm."

The Michigan Chamber is a statewide business organization which represents more than 6,500 employers, trade associations and local chambers of commerce. The Michigan Chamber was established in 1959 to be an advocate for Michigan's job providers in the legislative, political and legal process.

SOURCE: Michigan Chamber of Commerce

CONTACT: Rich Studley of Michigan Chamber of Commerce, +1-517-371-2100

Web site: http://www.michamber.com/