(ROCKVILLE, MD) – January 9, 2009 – The Tech Council of Maryland, Maryland's largest trade association representing the technology and biotech community, is calling on state lawmakers to double funding for the state's biotech tax credit, create long term funding solutions for higher education and develop a stronger transportation infrastructure, during the 2009 legislative session, set to begin January 14.
TCM's newly released 2009 Policy Platform outlines the organization's specific priorities in the areas of advanced technology; biotechnology; clean and green technology; higher education; transportation; taxation; and workforce development. TCM's advocacy efforts during the 2009 regular session of the Maryland General Assembly are focused on making Maryland a great place for technology and biotechnology companies to start, grow and flourish.
"During tough economic times, the most important thing lawmakers can do is to create and maintain a climate for well-paying and family-supporting jobs," said Ed Rudnic, Chairman of TCM's Board of Directors. "A solid foundation for economic growth and stability – tax incentives, support for higher education, strong infrastructure – is vital to helping Maryland emerge stronger from the nationwide recession."
As the only technology association with a full-time lobbying staff in Annapolis, TCM works year round to protect the interests of Maryland's top growth industries, advocating on critical issues in technology, biotechnology, economic development, capital formation, higher education, transportation, workforce training and taxation. During the 2008 session, TCM successfully led the movement to repeal the Computer Services Sales Tax, secured funding for the Enterprise and Challenge Investment programs and advocated for the extension of Job Creation Tax Credit. 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 $6 million in funding for the Biotechnology Tax Credit, $19 million in funding for stem cell research, $2.4 million for the Nanotechnology Biotechnology Initiative and the creation of the Coordinating Emerging Nanobiotechnology Research (CENTR) in Maryland Program.
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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.