Washtenaw United: 03/15/21
WEMU has partnered with the United Way of Washtenaw County to explore the people, organizations, and institutions creating opportunity and equity in our area. And, as part of this ongoing series, you’ll also hear from the people benefiting and growing from the investments being made in the areas of our community where there are gaps in available services. It is a community voice. It is Washtenaw United.
ABOUT ALMA WHEELER SMITH:
Alma Smith served in the Michigan Legislature for 14 years, 6 in the House and 8 in the Senate. She served on the powerful Appropriations Committee in both chambers. Prior to service in the Legislature, she worked as a Senior Producer at the University of Michigan Television Center and Legislative Coordinator for State Senator Lana Pollack. While working and raising three children, Alma represented her community as an Ann Arbor Cablecasting Commissioner, South Lyon Community Schools Board of Education Trus
House Small Business Development Committee
Chairman Mike Cheokas (R-Americus) and his Committee and adopted its Committee Rules. This Committee will operate with four subcommittees: 1) Barriers to Regulation (chair is Representative Tim Barton (R-Calhoun)); 2) Retail Hospitality (chair is Representative Bill Yearta (R-Sylvester)); 3) Incentives and Education (chair is Representative Dale Washburn (R-Macon)); and 4) Agribusiness (chair is Representative Steven Meeks (R-Screven)).
The Committee heard presentations from NFIB, Nathan Humphrey, which indicated that the small business climate in Georgia was overall good Georgia has AAA bonds; low tax rate; it is a “right to work” state; has a solvent unemployment trust fund; has a workers’ compensation fund; and is a diversified economy. NFIB’s Humphrey pointed out the COVID-19 response and allowing businesses to open; the passage of HB 486; passage of covid liability protection law, SB 359; and the $1.5 billion for unemploymen