ROCKVILLE, MD--(Marketwire - January 03, 2012) - The Tech Council of Maryland (TCM), Maryland's largest technology trade association with more than 400 biotechnology and technology members employing more than 200,000 in the region, released its 2012 Policy Platform, which outlines the organization's specific priorities in the areas of advanced technology, biotechnology, tax climate, transportation, higher education and workforce development. TCM's advocacy efforts during the 2012 session of the Maryland General Assembly will focus on further improving the Maryland's business climate so that technology and biotechnology companies can start, grow and flourish.
Specifically, TCM's 2012 Policy Platform urges the creation and expansion of programs that further enhance opportunities for innovative companies to bring new jobs and investments to Maryland. It calls for increased funding for focused economic development incentives, such as the Biotech Tax Credit, Research and Development Tax Credit and programs at TEDCO. Also, the platform states that lawmakers should create certainty for the business community by opposing new corporate taxes or changes to the tax structure. Finally, it calls for developing and implementing long-term, stable funding solutions for Maryland's transportation infrastructure and higher education system. The session of the Maryland General Assembly begins January 11, 2012.
"The 2012 General Assembly Session will see difficult and challenging fiscal issues that impact all levels of government and directly affect the state's economic competitiveness," said Larry Letow, chairman of TCM's Board of Directors and interim CEO. "The Tech Council of Maryland looks forward to working with policymakers in Annapolis to advance the interests of our membership, create programs that enable and advance innovation and assure that Maryland is on the forefront of our nation's economic recovery."
"Maryland's economy is recovering and we believe the key to sustained, future economic growth is an innovation-led economy," said Douglas Doerfler, vice chairman of TCM and chair of its MdBio Division Board of Directors. "Our state is moving forward thanks to the support of policymakers in Annapolis and the tech and biotech business communities."
Legislative accomplishments during the 2011 session included increased funding to $8 million for the Biotech Tax Credit, a new Task Force on Cybersecurity Innovation and Excellence and the defeat of legislation harmful to Maryland's innovation economy. TCM has worked closely with both legislative leaders and the Governor's office to ensure continued state support for critical funding for programs such as the Maryland Biotechnology Center, Enterprise and Challenge Programs, TEDCO and stem cell research.
TCM will outline the new Policy Platform at the January 18, 2012 Leadership Dinner held at the Loews Annapolis Hotel. To read TCM's 2012 Policy Platform, click here.
ABOUT THE TECH COUNCIL OF MARYLAND, INC.
The Tech Council of Maryland (TCM) is the largest technology trade group serving the advanced technology and biotechnology communities of Maryland. TCM's mission is to advocate for the interests of the technology community, further the role of technology in the Maryland economy, and nurture an environment where technology companies can collaborate, grow and succeed. For more information, visit www.techcouncilmd.com.
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