Legislative Updates...

Joni Howell, our VP of Government Affairs, wanted me to share the following information with you. Joni is a vital element of the "voice" the Chamber provides its members and Northeast Indiana business. She watches policy at the local, state and federal level and advocates for a pro-business agenda. If you have any questions about the issues below, or the Chamber's upcoming Legislative Preview, send Joni an email.

Debate Begins Today on Health Care Bill in Senate

The Senate begins debate on its health care bill today. Before the Thanksgiving recess, Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) warned Senators to expect daily votes on the bill, plus evening and weekend sessions. The debate is expected to last weeks due to numerous amendments on abortion and the public option. The Senate is scheduled to go into session at 2 p.m. Debate is expected to be around 3 p.m. You can watch the debate online here.

Seven Issues to Watch as the Senate Begins Amending the Health Care Bill
The Hill
Senators will be asked to cast their votes on numerous amendments as they begin a debate to reshape the country's health care system. Some amendments will be designed to improve the bill, some to satisfy a special interest or pet peeve. Still others will be presented as poison pills. Here are seven issues likely to arise during the amendment process. Click here to continue.

State Discusses UI and Caps
The State Senate Tax and Policy Committee meets Tuesday to consider a bill to delay increases in the unemployment tax on Hoosier businesses and the proposed constitutional amendment to cap property taxes at 1 percent of assessed value for primary homes, 2 percent for rentals and 3 percent for commercial property.

Both will likely see passage in the Senate, but the 1, 2, 3 cap plan will face a tougher time in the House. Should it pass, it would still have to be approved in a statewide referendum.