05/22/2008
CONTACT: Kevin Shivers, 717-232-8582 or 717-571-0009 (mobile)
or Jason Brewer, 202-406-4435
Tax cuts for small employers will boost job creations
HARRISBURG, Pa. -- All or part of the following may be attributed to Kevin Shivers, state director of the National Federation of Independent Business/Pennsylvania, in response to the Senate majority proposal to cut taxes on small business.
"Creating a state tax policy that is considerate to the needs of small companies and working families is the most effective strategy to grow Pennsylvania's economy. With two out of every three new jobs created nationally coming from small business, the success of storefronts on Main Street and independent shop floors all across Pennsylvania are critical to growing our economy and creating new jobs.
"Today, Pennsylvania's tax policy is one critical factor that impedes the ability of small companies to expand, create jobs and compete in the global marketplace. In 2006, Pennsylvania businesses paid more than $22 billion in state and local taxes, placing the Commonwealth sixth highest in the nation in business tax collections.
"The small business members of the NFIB applaud all efforts to change the debate in Harrisburg from talking about tax increases to discussing job-creating tax cuts as a means to help working families and the small business economy.
"Providing tax incentives to purchase new equipment and reinvest in their business will be a boon for small employers. And adjusting the business tax code to reward -- rather than penalize, as we currently do -- companies who hire workers and build products here in Pennsylvania will be a win for both business and the thousands of men and women across the commonwealth looking for work.
"Small business owners believe modest tax reductions to help all business are the best means to move Pennsylvania's economy forward. Taxpayers and families can be assured the money invested in small business will be used to build, expand and hire new workers -- giving the Pennsylvania economy a boost at a time when we desperately need it."
