By: Sen. Cecil Staton
There is no hiding the fact that permanent job creation is the main catalyst for Georgia’s economic recovery. A clear focus is needed on improving the tools and resources that businesses across this state have to invest in new jobs and grow their companies. In our state over 97 percent of businesses are classified as small businesses (under 500 employees). Small firms make up half the state workforce and created 80 percent of new Georgia jobs from 1990-2003 (GA Dept. of Economic Development). These entrepreneurs and owners are vital to providing hard-working Georgians new opportunities and for the state to prosper and grow as a whole.
As a business owner and state Senator, I understand the importance for less regulation, lower taxes and free-market principles. Simply put, government needs to get out of the way and let these small businesses operate without interference. I believe that a firm and steadfast commitment to strengthening the small business community will be the quickest and most effective method for getting people back to work and Georgia’s economy back on track. The right business climate and state leadership is in place for this to take place.
Georgia certainly has the right environment for long-term growth and job creation. I was extremely encouraged by a CNBC report earlier this year ranking Georgia as the 10th best state overall to do business in. Georgia was named having the number-one rated workforce, which is based on the educational level of the workforce and the number of qualified workers available. We also ranked number-three in both transportation and cost of living. These indictors clearly show Georgia is primed and ready to do business, create new jobs and help our state continue its growth and prosperity for years to come.
I will encourage my fellow legislators to join with me and seek out policies to take advantage of all the momentum Georgia’s business environment has going. Last year, I joined the General Assembly in passing economic pro-growth legislation to help small businesses. Our bills gave small businesses tax credits and incentives for getting new start-ups off the ground and for existing businesses that hire new employees. History has proven time and time again that tax cuts produce jobs, not increased spending by the Federal government. I will continue to fight for these pro-business ideas in the Senate and make sure legislation like this is passed. It will be the key to bringing us out of this recession and lead to future prosperity.
I am confident when revenues begin to rebound, the efforts we have made to cut waste in government, reduce spending, and avoid tax increases will benefit our state and pay great dividends Georgia is the economic force of the south and stands to gain the most during the eventual economic recovery. We must continue to stay true to our conservative Georgia values and make strategic investments for our future. Supporting and strengthening our small business community is vital to bring permanent jobs and long-term growth to our great state. I am committed to empower Georgia’s small business community to reach its full potential. They are the driving force in our economy and I will do all I can to support their continued success.
Sen. Cecil Staton serves as Chairman of the Science and Technology Committee. He represents the 18th Senate District which includes portions of Bibb, Crawford, Houston, Jones and Monroe counties. He may be reached by phone at 404.656.5039 or via e-mail at cecil.staton@senate.state.gov.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
December 17, 2009
For Information Contact:
Matt Colvin, Broadcast Specialist
matthew.colvin@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028