Here is an update on some of the Maryland Chamber’s priority bills:
Employee Free Choice Act: The misnamed Employee Free Choice Act of 2009 (EFCA) was introduced yesterday in the U.S. Congress. This legislation would effectively eliminate the use of secret ballots in union organizing efforts and replace it with a “card check system.” It would also impose contract terms on private, unionized employers through compulsory, binding arbitration if the employer and a newly certified union are unable to reach a first contract within a specified amount of time. We encourage you to contact your Senators and Representative and urge them to oppose this legislation.
Health Care Payroll Tax For All: The Maryland Chamber continues to oppose universal health care plans that would be funded by by mandated employer assessments (SB 813/HB 951). This proposal would be 85% paid for by an annual $2.5 billion payroll assessment on all employers. While the payroll assessment would be a crippling reality, any proposed savings could prove illusory. Such a new financial burden on employers is ill-advised during these difficult economic times. This year’s bill will be heard in the House and Senate next week. Learn more here.
Combined Reporting: Legislation that would implement a system of mandatory unitary combined reporting for corporate income taxes beginning this year was heard in the House last week and will be heard in the Senate today (SB 603/HB 1244). The Maryland Chamber opposes combined reporting because it would place Maryland businesses at a competitive disadvantage. In addition, we believe this year’s legislation needlessly interrupts the thoughtful strategy enacted by the Maryland General Assembly in 2007, when it established a study commission to collect data and study business taxes in Maryland. Learn more here.
Environmental Standing: The Maryland Chamber opposes legislation that would significantly expand standing to challenge environmental decisions in Maryland (SB 824/HB1053). This legislation would impact any business that requires environmental permits to operate. Passage of this legislation would significantly delay projects or interrupt projects already underway. Learn more here.
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