INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WOWO): The Indiana Chamber of Commerce has announced the issues it’ll be pressing lawmakers on in 2017.
The Chamber announced eight priorities at its annual legislative preview in Indianapolis Monday. The topics range from long-term transportation infrastructure funding to the expansion of state-funded preschool to a reduction in the state’s smoking rate.
For roads, the Chamber says it could support raising fuel excise taxes and fees or charging fees for alternative-fuel vehicles to cover the costs of road repair. When it comes to education, the Chamber is pushing for “suitable” testing for students, saying there have “clearly” been issues with the state’s ISTEP exam.
A recap of the Indiana Chamber’s Top 8 legislative priorities is as follows:
Support establishing a long-term sustainable funding stream for the state’s roads, bridges, etc.
Support the expansion of publicly-funded preschool initiatives for children from low-income families.
Support suitable testing for students and accountability for all involved in the education process.
Support a comprehensive approach to decreasing the state’s smoking rate.
Support a statewide water policy to assure future resources and our economic prosperity.
Support making technology innovation an integral part of the state’s identity.
Support maintaining and enhancing our attractive tax climate.
Support a work share program that will allow employers to maintain a skilled stable workforce during temporary downturns.
