The Tech Council of Maryland (TCM), the state's largest technology trade association with more than 500 members employing more than 250,000 in the region, has released its 2010 Policy Platform. The legislative wishlist calls on state lawmakers to double funding for the Biotech Tax Credit, invest pension funds in Maryland's most innovative companies, oppose harmful corporate tax reform and create long-term funding solutions for higher education and transportation. The 2010 session of the Maryland General Assembly is set to begin January 13.
TCM's newly released 2010 Policy Platform outlines the organization's specific priorities in the areas of advanced technology, biotechnology, clean and green technology, tax climate, transportation, higher education and workforce development. TCM's advocacy efforts during the 2010 session of the Maryland General Assembly are focused on making Maryland a great place for technology and biotechnology companies to start, grow and flourish. As the only technology association with a full-time lobbying staff in Annapolis, TCM works year round advocating the interests of Maryland's most advanced growth industries.
"Advanced industries like information technology and biotechnology are part of the solution for Maryland to emerge strongly from its economic challenges," says Ren�e M. Winsky, Chief Executive Officer of TCM. "The Tech Council of Maryland looks forward to forging an even closer relationship with policymakers in Annapolis to advance the interests of our membership and get Maryland's economy moving again," said Winsky.
Legislative accomplishments during the 2009 session included the preservation of the $6 million budget request for the Biotech Tax Credit, no new taxes on innovation and the creation of a Joint Information Technology and Biotechnology Committee. TCM has worked closely with both legislative leaders and the Governor's Office to ensure continued state support for critical biotech research and development including $2 million for the Enterprise and Challenge Investment programs, $12.4 million in funding for stem cell research, $1.6 million for the Nanobiotechnology Initiative Fund and the creation and funding of the Maryland Biotechnology Center.
Download a copy of TCM's 2010 Policy Platform.
Source: Tech Council of Maryland
Writer: Walaika Haskins