To the Editor:

House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello continues to work tirelessly to improve our state’s economy and has gone out of his way to support Rhode Island businesses. Under his leadership, Rhode Island’s tax climate has continued to improve, earning him well-deserved recognition from the Tax Foundation, a national non-partisan organization, for Outstanding Achievement in State Tax Reform.

The Rhode Island Society of Certified Public Accountants (RISCPA) recently presented him with a special award for “Dedication to Creating a Favorable Tax Climate and Supporting Economic Development and Growth” for initiatives including the phase out of the motor vehicle excise tax, raising the exemption on the estate tax, reducing the corporate tax to the lowest rate in the Northeast, eliminating the income tax for Social Security recipients and other retirees, eliminating the sales tax on utility bills, and twice lowering the minimum corporate tax.

Along with the award, RISCPA presented Speaker Mattiello with a letter written by Barry C. Melancon, president and chief executive officer of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, for his significant contribution on behalf of the business community and the state of Rhode Island.

In the letter, Melancon stated, “Your passion for building the state’s economy and job climate, and providing tax relief for Rhode Islanders, comes through in all that you do for the state … It is an immense achievement and deserves our congratulations.” The AICPA is the world’s largest member association representing the accounting profession, with more than 431,000 members in 137 countries and territories, and a history of serving the public interest since 1887.

For over 100 years, RISCPA has been dedicated to creating a favorable tax climate that encourages economic growth and job creation. Elected officials in Rhode Island have the ability to create an environment where companies and communities are able to thrive. Speaker Mattiello’s focus on jobs and the economy is more important than ever as we work to improve Rhode Island’s business climate. We are grateful for his leadership.

Melissa D. Travis

President/CEO Rhode Island Society of CPAs/Rhode Island Business Forum