The Indiana Chamber of Commerce recently announced its 100 businesses on their best places to work list for 2015. I am proud to say that one of the businesses on this list is from House District 78! United Leasing, Inc. is one of 24 medium-sized companies that received this distinguished recognition and deserves to be acknowledged as a business that creates an exemplary environment for their employees to grow and thrive.
The Indiana Chamber stated that they received a record breaking number of applicants this year, making the list more competitive than ever. The rankings of these companies will be announced at a formal dinner on May 7th and the public is invited to attend. Regardless of what ranking United Leasing, Inc. receives, it is an honor to represent a business so dedicated to its employees.
As a leader of our community and state, I am also pleased to have worked on policy that benefits Indiana businesses. House Republicans remain dedicated to protecting Hoosier taxpayers and maintaining the stable fiscal environment necessary to grow our economy. Holding firm to our proven commitment to fiscal integrity is essential for the success of our state’s employers and their employees.
The House Republican proposed biennial budget is structurally balanced and maintains healthy reserves, allowing our state to live within its means. It is also honestly balanced and protects Indiana’s AAA credit rating which provides a financial cushion in the event of revenue shortfalls. By managing our finances responsibly, we were also able to invest in strategic priorities like the Southwest Indiana Regional Medical School which has become a very important project to our community.
While funding these priorities will support economic development, the budget also provides $6 million dollars over the next two fiscal years to increase graduate medical residency programs in Indiana. We want to be able to attract top talent and retain medical graduates, which requires having residency opportunities available.
The budget also makes important investments in career and technical education, supporting our Hoosier students. More than $30 million has been allotted within the budget to expand and improve these programs. Incentivizing schools to develop stronger and clearer pathways for college and career means students can be more prepared to tackle their futures and compete in the marketplace.
Supporting small business is one of my top goals as a legislator and that includes supporting state and local breweries like Carson’s Brewery from House District 78. House Bill 1311 would raise the barrel limit for small breweries from 30,000 barrels a year to 90,000 barrels a year. This allows microbreweries to have more flexibility in their production. Many times, microbreweries have had to cut production due to current restrictions. HB 1311 allows developing businesses to continue to grow as an integral part of the business community.
Building up all sides of our economy is the best way to keep Indiana’s future bright. We will continue to educate our students, support our small businesses and maintain the state’s fiscal integrity. I encourage you to support all of our local businesses by utilizing their goods and services. I commend United Leasing, Inc. on their recognition by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. Next year, I hope to see more businesses from southwest Indiana receive this award.
