WARREN – The Michigan Business and Professional Association, along with its sister association Michigan Food and Beverage Association, support President Obama’s announcement during the State of the Union address to correct section 9006 of last year?s health care law, which requires companies to report to the IRS payments of more than $600 a year to any vendor. Both Associations are comprised of over 20,000 small business members statewide.

“The 1099 requirement would certainly increase paperwork for a business, and places a significant paperwork burden on small businesses. We have opposed the requirement from the beginning and are pleased the President understands that this only hampers the growth of small businesses in Michigan and our country,” said Edward Deeb, president of both Associations.

Deeb continued that the Associations are pleased that the President invited Congressional representatives to present their ideas to correct and improve provisions of the health care law.

“From its inception, our Associations did not support the law. We felt it would add costs to business owners at a difficult economic time, have a negative affect on the insurance agent community’s livelihood, and put the government in a competitive position in the marketplace, potentially choosing health care options for us,” said Deeb. “Therefore, we are encouraged that the President said he was open to new ideas that would help this bill be more friendly to businesses and consumers.”

The bipartisan tone of President Obama’s remarks was a positive sign, said Deeb, and his intention to present a proposal to Congress that would consolidate and streamline government is a breath of fresh air.

“We hope this signals a time when businesses in Michigan can look ahead to better days. Our legislative team will continue to advocate for our members as the new Congress opens its year,” Deeb said.

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