LANSING, MI -- Members of the Michigan Distributors and Vendors Association turned out in full force on May 11 to meet with their state legislators at the state capitol building.
The day began with a MDVA legislative briefing session to strategize and identify legislators most important to the association's efforts. Members then delivered a candy box to each member of the state House of Representatives and Senate, and met with their lawmakers.
The group was later joined by more than 50 members of the House and Senate for the luncheon. Guests included House Minority Leader Rick Hammel, House Tax Policy Chairman Jud Gilbert, Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, Speaker of the House Jase Bolger and Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville. Chief of staff Dennis Muchmore was there on behalf of Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder.
On display at the luncheon were beverage and snack vending machines, placed side-by-side with convenience store snack racks and beverage coolers, to reinforce the message that Michigan's current vending sales tax exemption is justified in that the same products are not taxed in other retail channels.
Also included was a cigarette and tobacco tax display highlighting the $1 billion in tax revenue collected for the state by MDVA tobacco wholesalers.
"Members heard over and over from leaders how important it is that MDVA has worked hard to get their message out time and time again," reported association officials.
