LANSING, Mich., May 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Michigan Chamber of Commerce today expressed great appreciation that the Michigan Senate and State House has voted for strong job creation legislation by passing tax reform negotiated between Governor Rick Snyder, Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville and House Speaker Jase Bolger. As passed, this legislation is an important step in the quest to revitalize Michigan's economy and make the state more economically competitive.  

"Today, Majority Leader Richardville, Speaker Bolger and their colleagues who cast 'yes' votes demonstrated that they are committed to delivering on the promises they made to voters during the 2010 campaign to reduce taxes and create jobs," said Michigan Chamber President and CEO Rich Studley. "The Michigan Business Tax (MBT) was crafted to satisfy government's insatiable overspending and it resulted in destroying thousands of jobs.

"Today's vote moves us one step closer to a simpler and fairer tax code that will improve Michigan's competitive edge in retaining and attracting jobs," continued Studley.

"We are extremely pleased with today's outcome and thank Lieutenant Governor Calley, Senator Jansen and Representative Gilbert for their tireless work in crafting legislation that forges a new path to economic prosperity for all of Michigan," said Tricia Kinley, Senior Director of Tax and Regulatory Reform for the Michigan Chamber. "Across our state, job providers can feel confident that the votes cast today will create 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 economic 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; we are serious about improving our business climate."

Kinley concluded: "No one should underestimate the importance of this reform. We are looking forward to Governor Snyder signing this legislation into law."

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