Beebe Outlines His Principles To Strengthen Arkansas' Economic Future

Beebe Outlines His Principles To Strengthen Arkansas' Economic Future - 10/25/2005

Beebe will create a business-friendly environment; opposes higher taxes Urges business leaders to continue moving forward Hot Springs - Arkansas Attorney General and gubernatorial candidate Mike Beebe delivered his vision to strengthen Arkansas' economy today in Hot Springs. Beebe stressed that his economic strategy for the future is neither Democratic nor Republican. "It is an Arkansas plan," Beebe said. "I'm opposed to higher taxes," Beebe stated at the 77th annual luncheon meeting of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Arkansas. Arkansas does not need a tax structure that makes it difficult to provide for a family, become a property owner, or to do business in this state. Beebe believes keeping the cost of doing business low is key to developing and maintaining a competitive business environment. He called for growing the economy by making sure that Arkansas' tax structure is competitive with that of surrounding states, and continuing to expand existing businesses. Beebe also discussed the importance of attracting new businesses and creating good-paying jobs. Beebe highlighted his talk with examples of Arkansas success stories that have taken advantage of the positive business climate. He noted Arkansans' entrepreneurial spirit as a reason why so many local businesses have become Fortune 500 companies. Beebe explained, "These major national corporations are important to our economy. However, we should remember that these corporations started as small Arkansas businesses." Creating diverse business climates and developing non-traditional industries, such as growing tourism and venture capital, are essential to strengthening Arkansas' economic future, Beebe pointed out. "It is important to recognize that that the strategy is not a ‘one-size fits all' approach," Beebe stated. "We must foster competitive regional economies that draw on the strength of particular areas of the state." Beebe promoted a balanced, common-sense approach to help small businesses, saying that they are the economic engine of our economy. Beebe pointed to soaring health-care costs Arkansas businesses face and said, "Businesses should not be forced to choose between their bottom line and providing coverage for their workers. We should find a way to reward businesses that are desperately trying to provide coverage for their employees." Beebe stressed the importance of infrastructure and transportation and the need for roads, overpasses, and river ports to move our goods to production as critical to economic growth and prosperity. Beebe also spoke of the need for private business to take an active role in public education, as they are the evolving workforce of tomorrow. He listed many reasons why businesses are successful in Arkansas and emphasized the high-quality and reliable workforce Arkansas has to offer. Beebe concluded by emphasizing the importance of education and the vital role it plays in strengthening Arkansas' economy. Beebe said, "Strength of character and moral values are just as essential as proficiency in math and in writing skills. Improving public education is the best long-term strategy for strengthening our economy."

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