Business groups argue against Mich. tax increases

Business groups argue against Mich. tax increases
"Organizations representing Michigan's business community are urging lawmakers to solve the state's budget crisis without raising taxes.
Michigan faces a projected budget shortfall of at least $2.7 billion for the fiscal year starting Oct. 1. Money from the federal stimulus package won't erase the entire deficit.
The Michigan Chamber of Commerce and affiliated groups scheduled press conferences across the state Tuesday to say government should cut spending and become more efficient rather than raise taxes.
A coalition of social service, education and labor groups wants the state to raise taxes to avoid cutting services. The coalition advocates expanding the sales tax to nonessential services, switching to a graduated income tax and ending some tax exemptions."