For Immediate Release	Contact: Andy Deloney
April 27, 2011	517/377-3931

 MRA Applauds Michigan Senate for Vote to Reform Taxes
Bill now on its way to Gov. Rick Snyder for signature

LANSING – The Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA) applauds today’s vote in the Michigan Senate to approve a proposal to reform business and individual income taxes. The bill is now headed to the desk of Gov. Rick Snyder, who will sign the bill into law.

House Bill 4361 incorporates Gov. Rick Snyder’s business income tax plan, which repeals the disastrous Michigan Business Tax (MBT). HB 4361 places a six percent tax on a subchapter C corporation profits. Subchapter S businesses (sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies, etc.) would have no business tax, but the owners would be taxed on the profits their business generates through the individual income tax. Gov. Snyder, state House Speaker Jase Bolger (R-Marshall) and state Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville (R-Monroe) came to an agreement on this legislation earlier in April. The Michigan House of Representatives passed the bill in April.

“The MRA applauds the Michigan Senate for approving this critical legislation,” said Andy Deloney, vice president public affairs of the MRA. “This legislation will jumpstart our economy, provide confidence to small business owners, and help lead to increased investment by employers in new and expanded businesses in Michigan, economic growth, and more jobs. We are grateful to Senate Majority Leader Richardville for his leadership and guiding this important measure through the Senate.”

The MRA has supported the business tax plan since shortly after it was initially announced by Gov. Snyder in February.

“Michigan’s job providers are grateful to the senators and Lt. Gov. Brian Calley for their courage and their votes today,” said Deloney. “We look forward to the legislation becoming law.”

The Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA) is the recognized leader of Michigan's hospitality industry, providing essential services to the foodservice community.  Founded in 1921, the MRA represents more than 4,500 Michigan foodservice establishments.  The industry plays an integral role in Michigan's economy, employing more than 423,600 people and creating more than $13.1 billion in annual sales. For more information please call 800-968-9668.