WASHINGTON -- Food Distributors International representatives participated in a White House meeting of business leaders last week during which President Bush reviewed his plans for tax relief, job growth and an energy policy.
"We are extremely pleased with the president's tax package and his intention to fulfill his campaign promises," said Kevin Burke, FDI vice president, government relations.
Block and Burke attended the meeting with nearly 75 other business leaders, but were the only food industry representatives.Other attendees included the National Association of Manufacturers, National Federation of Independent Businesses, General Contractors of America, U.S. Chamber of Congress, as well as small business owners.
Replacing the current five-tier tax structure with four lower tiers, the highest of which would be 33%.
Eliminating the estate tax At the meeting, Bush spoke to the need to tear down trade barriers and ease encumbering pressures on small businesses so they may enhance their productivity, Burke said.
Block observed that there is no magic wand to wave as a solution to energy and economic problems. However, the president said that while we cannot conserve our way to energy independence, we can take steps to help. He cited the expanded use of hydropower and clean coal technology as examples.
Meanwhile, other food industry associations last week again voiced their support for Bush's efforts to eliminate the estate tax. Tom Wenning, senior vice president and general counsel, National Grocers Association, said, "Elimination of the estate tax has been NGA's number one legislative priority for almost a decade."
Food Marketing Institute last week released a study showing that estate tax repeal would provide an immediate stimulus to the U.S. economy. "The study makes a strong case for repealing the tax immediately or, at least, accelerating the phase-out period," said Tim Hammonds, FMI president and CEO.