People often think only about legislation when they hear the term “government affairs,” but MRA also works with various state departments and agencies to get answers for members.
Have an issue with a liquor license or a food safety inspection? Call MRA. Struggling to get an answer from the Unemployment Agency? Have questions about sales tax or business tax filings? Confused about work comp laws? Call MRA.
Our contacts throughout state government can help get you an answer quickly, saving you precious time.
MRA also has a seat at the table to regularly update state departments, agencies and boards on how the implementation of Michigan laws and regulations is impacting retailers. These include the departments of Treasury, Health and Human Services, and Agriculture and Rural Development, as well as the Board of Pharmacy.
We’re also regularly invited to provide comments on potential new laws and policy changes and serve on “work groups” set up by legislators or state departments.
In order to best advocate for our members, we need to know what problems you’re having. When we can identify and bring forward the problems retailers face, we can work toward simplifying and solving these bureaucratic headaches.
Most of the state departments and state agencies want to help simplify their processes, but many don’t realize how the rules and regulations they set actually impact businesses of all sizes.
Please don’t hesitate to call with questions or problems. If you’re having an issue with a department, your neighboring businesses may have a similar issue. With your input, we can help bureaucrats make reforms to procedures and policies that will make compliance easier for everyone.
If the problem is larger than something a department or an agency has the power to change, we can consider seeking a legislative solution. This process of identifying problems or issues at the store or business level is how most ideas for legislative changes begin.
MRA Government Affairs can do more for your business. Just give us a call or shoot us an email.
Amy Drumm is MRA’s vice president of government affairs and can be reached by calling 800.366.3699 or 517.372.5656 ext. 343 or by email at adrumm@retailers.com.
