The Michigan Chamber of Commerce today expressed appreciation for action yesterday in the Michigan Senate on funding for K-12 education and revisions to Michigan's Business Tax that would result in elimination of the job-killing 22% MBT surcharge.

"Yesterday, Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop and his caucus developed a plan and took action to break the impasse over the School Aid budget," said Michigan Chamber President & CEO Rich Studley. "We applaud the Senate GOP for again providing leadership to balance the state budget without a general tax increase and to improve Michigan's tax climate for job providers."

"The action taken last night should not be underestimated," noted Jim Holcomb, Vice President of Business Advocacy & Associate General Counsel for the Michigan Chamber. "With state revenues down dramatically, the ability to hold school funding to a 2.3% decrease, coupled with relief for job providers, is a great accomplishment."

"The Senate stepped up to the plate and delivered for educators and employers. Now we urge the House to take prompt action next week to enact this important reform," added Holcomb. "Michigan's employers and employees simply cannot wait any longer. Removing the job-killing 22% MBT surcharge is something that both Gov. Granholm and Speaker Dillon have said they would support if there was a plan to pay for it. Yesterday the Senate approved that plan and now the ball is in the House's court."

The Michigan Chamber is celebrating its 50th year as a statewide business organization, now representing more than 7,000 employers, trade associations and local chambers of commerce. The Chamber was established in 1959 to be an advocate for Michigan's job providers in the legislative, political and legal process.

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SOURCE: Michigan Chamber of Commerce

CONTACT: Jim Holcomb or Rich Studley, +1-517-371-2100

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