FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE-1 PAGE
Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce
Contact: Brandt Coultas, V.P. of Government Affairs
(734) 214-0101, brandt@annarborchamber.org

ANN ARBOR AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DOES NOT SUPPORT THE CURRENT MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE EFFORTS

MARCH 10, 2006 -- The Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce opposes the current efforts to increase the minimum wage in Michigan.  Businesses in Michigan face a number of economic constraints and the Chamber does not support making a mandatory minimum wage increase with a guaranteed annual increase part of Michigan’s Constitution. The Chamber believes the free market should continue to determine wages in Michigan.  

“Our businesses are already struggling.  We should not be putting more obstacles in their way as they attempt to survive,” said Sabrina Keeley, President of the Chamber.

The Michigan Senate voted on Thursday to increase Michigan’s minimum wage and the bill is next headed to the House. Petitions are also being circulated to put the issue on the November 2006 ballot. 

The Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce is the largest business organization in Washtenaw County. The mission of the Ann Arbor Area Chamber is to support our members by promoting commerce in the greater Ann Arbor area through business advocacy and leadership in economic, political and educational development. Membership means: access to health care; advocacy; benefits & cost savings; connections; and exposure for business.

 

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