LANSING, Mich., April 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Michigan Chamber today expressed great appreciation that the House of Representatives passed the tax reform legislation negotiated between Governor Snyder, Senate Majority Leader Richardville and Speaker Bolger. As passed, this legislation is a major breakthrough in Michigan's attempt to revitalize our economy and bring about job creation.

"Today, Speaker Bolger and his colleagues demonstrated the bold leadership that they promised voters during the 2010 campaign," said Michigan Chamber President and CEO Rich Studley. "The MBT was crafted to satisfy government's insatiable overspending and it resulted in destroying thousands of jobs. Today's vote is a new beginning for Michigan as the House of Representatives has taken the first step towards a simpler and fairer tax code that will foster economic vitality and job creation."  

"We are extremely pleased with today's outcome and thank House Tax Policy Chairman Jud Gilbert (R – Algonac) and the entire committee for their tireless work in debating and constructing a bill that tells the entire world that Michigan is open for business," said Tricia Kinley, Senior Director of Tax and Regulatory Reform for the Michigan Chamber. "Across our state, job providers can feel confident that the House's decisive action will lead to creating a business tax climate that levels the playing field for all entrepreneurs and those wishing to invest in Michigan's revitalization."

"The legislation passed today satisfies two major objectives: 1) improving our competitiveness; and 2) building a tax system designed for the future," said Jim Holcomb, Senior Vice President for Business Advocacy and Associate General Counsel for the Michigan Chamber. "Michigan simply cannot afford to continue the patchwork approach to tax policy and this legislation sends the right message about Michigan's leadership; they are serious about improving our business climate," noted Holcomb.

Kinley concluded, "Now that the House has acted, we are committed to working with Senate Majority Leader Richardville and his colleagues to ensure that we do not miss this window of opportunity to enact meaningful tax reform."  

The Michigan Chamber of Commerce is a statewide business organization representing approximately 6,800 employers, trade associations and local chambers of commerce. The Michigan Chamber represents businesses of every size and type in all 83 counties of the state. The Chamber was established in 1959 to be an advocate for Michigan's job providers in the legislative, political and legal process. It is one of only four state chambers of commerce in the nation accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

SOURCE Michigan Chamber of Commerce