North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Releases Platform Addressing 2018 Ballot Questions
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce issued its platform regarding major questions that will be put before the state’s voters in November of 2018. The platform was developed to serve as a guide to members and the public, and focuses on those questions which impact the business community directly.
“Between paid leave, taxation, and the minimum wage, there are a number of questions that will have a longstanding impact on business in Massachusetts” explained Christopher McDermott, the Chamber’s Public Affairs Manager. “For that reason, we believe it’s essential to educate our voters and ensure the Chamber plays a part in the discourse.”
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce advocates on behalf of businesses across the region, and the new Ballot Initiative Platform outlines how specific proposals would impact this constituency. It addresses four questions likely to appear on the ballot in November. Respectively, approval of these initiatives would institute paid family and medical leave mandates, impose hospital wide nurse staffing ratios, increase the minimum wage by nearly 40%, and reduce the sales tax while instituting an annual sales tax holiday.
“Our platform is focused on educating the electorate and ensuring that North Central Massachusetts remains a great place to live, work, and grow a business,” said Roy M. Nascimento, President and CEO of the Chamber. “These are complex issues that deserve the type of measured consideration and resolution only the legislature can provide. However, should that not come to pass; we will continue working with our colleagues across the Commonwealth to ensure residents are aware of the effect these proposals would have.”
The platform was approved by the Chamber’s Board at their meeting on June 14th, and can be found on the “Chamber Positions” page of their website at https://www.northcentralmass.com/government-affairs/chamber-positions/.
For more information or to view the Chamber’s Public Policy Agenda please visit www.northcentralmass.com or contact Christopher McDermott, Public Affairs Manager at 978.353.7600 ext. 224.
