Florida Chamber Seeks More 'Competitiveness' from Legislators

The Florida Chamber of Commerce released its recommendations for the 2013 legislative session it says seeks more tax, legal and business reforms.

We want to make Floridas business environment more competitive, said Lars Houmann, chair of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, during a media conference in the Capitol on Wednesday.

Chamber officials, who discussed the proposals with legislative leaders prior to the midday release, estimate Florida could grow 170,000 new jobs this year with the help of the recommendations.

Among the recommendations:

Eliminate the manufacturing equipment sales tax.

Lower workers comp rates.

Attract more health care professionals to Florida.

Oppose expansion of Las Vegas-style gambling.

Chamber President Mark Wilson noted the pro-business Legislature the past couple of years has approved about 50 of the Chamber's proposals.