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2008 LEGISLATIVE POSITION STATEMENTS Civil Justice Reform – West Virginia’s business community should continue to seek passage of additional civil justice reforms including: deliberant intent, joint and several liability, collateral source, limiting punitive and non-economic damages, and the establishment of a comprehensive bid process for attorneys who represent the state. Highway Funding – While it is critical to appropriately fund our highway system, WVMTA believes we need to analyze where the dollars are going and determine how they can be spent more efficiently. Governmental/Regulatory Cooperation – WVMTA members provide both employment and valuable services to West Virginia. WVMTA members interact with numerous governmental and regulatory agencies on a daily basis. We desire fair and consistent treatment and an environment that is business friendly. Healthcare – Affordable healthcare continues to be a major issue for WVMTA members. The adequate funding of government healthcare programs, the reduction and control of healthcare costs, and the availability of affordable health insurance for West Virginia employers and employees are fundamental components of a strategy that will help reduce the cost-shift and the rise in private health insurance premiums experienced by the business community. Tax Modernization – West Virginia’s tax structure has long been criticized as not being competitive with other states in terms of attracting and retaining businesses with well-paying jobs. We support eliminating the remaining .20% Business Franchise Tax rate beginning January 1, 2014 as well as gradually reducing the Corporate Net Income Tax rate form the current 8.75% to 5.99%. We are also in favor of providing credits against state business taxes for property taxes paid on business inventory, machinery and equipment. Primary Safety Belt Law – WVMTA supports adoption of a primary safety belt law to increase belt use, reduce fatalities and save money. |