State Representative Michael A. Costello is pleased to announce that Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) has released its 2009-2010 Legislative Scorecard which shows his commitment to economic growth and job creation.
AIM, a nonprofit association of Massachusetts employers, seeks improvements in the economic climate of Massachusetts on behalf of its member employers and their employees.
According to the 2009-2010 Legislative Scorecard, AIM releases the Scorecard at the conclusion of each legislative session to “ensure that members know legislators’ records on key economic and public-policy issues, and to recognize lawmakers who understand the importance of a vibrant economy for all residents.”
“I think the support from the Associated Industries of Massachusetts shows that we worked on a number of important bills this year that improve the business climate in Massachusetts,” said Costello. “These include transportation reform, health care cost containment and an economic development package.”
“I’m proud that the Legislative Scorecard reiterates the House’s dedication to growing businesses and improving job opportunities for folks across our Commonwealth,” House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said. “It’s been an honor to work on the wide range of bills the House completed during this past legislative session that will stimulate our economy and improve the lives of families across the Commonwealth.”
The Legislative Scorecard indicates that Representative Costello supported a number of bills in the past session which were endorsed by AIM and promise to promote economic prosperity in Massachusetts.
Landmark transportation reform eliminated the antiquated and inefficient transportation structure in Massachusetts while bringing considerable cost-savings. The transportation reform bill also alleviated any need for an increase in Massachusetts tolls.
Education reform established a new category of public schools, provided options to improve existing school districts that are underperforming, and put the Commonwealth in position to secure the $250 million in federal education funding announced in August.
At the close of the legislative session, Representative Costello joined his colleagues in the Legislature in passing economic development legislation that included a sales tax holiday and promotes a business-friendly environment that will help small businesses open, expand and create jobs.
The new law will overhaul the state’s network of business development agencies, establishing a streamlined, cohesive model with built-in oversight and transparency to reduce redundancy and waste.
Small business health care legislation will reduce health insurance costs and promote job retention and job creation. The bill reduces premium fluctuations in the market and requires insurers to offer affordable health plans. Last winter, Representative Costello also voted to halt a scheduled increase in the unemployment insurance assessment that all employers pay.