Owners of small- to mid-sized businesses across Michigan need to stay informed and to speak out against potential higher taxes and other costs associated with national health care reform, according to the Michigan Business and Professional Association (MBPA) and the Michigan Food and Beverage Association (MFBA) in response to President Obama's speech on healthcare reform.
The U.S. House and Senate bills, as currently drafted, are written as "play or pay" models, which could negatively affect both businesses and individuals, said Ed Deeb, president of both associations.
Deeb said, "Given current economic conditions, MBPA and MFBA oppose any health care changes that result in an increase in costs to run a business, or a firm's ability to compete in the marketplace. We are concerned that there are too many considerations and possibilities on how a business will react to this additional tax burden depending on the size of the company. We are also concerned about the ripple affect of small business taking most of the cost burden of providing health care in this country. The overall impact on the economy and possible loss of industry jobs is of great concern. This is a complex issue, and it needs further diligence by our government."
Deeb continued: "We are aware of the tremendous strain that the rising costs in health care insurance premiums and the onerous Michigan Business Tax (MBT) have put on many companies' ability to do business. It is our priority to ensure that our state and federal legislators know exactly how business owners feel about footing the bill for our nation's health care system."
Deeb added that the boards of directors of both associations, together with a membership legislative task force, have been meeting regularly to review the impact of health care reform on businesses "for the greater good of our communities."
Provisions of U.S. House of Representatives proposed bill include: