The Business Council of Alabama (BCA) recently hosted its Government Affairs Conference, a conclave where the state’s political and business powerbrokers converge. While the BCA’s professed commitment to economic growth is praiseworthy, the rhetoric emerging from this gathering is cause for concern.
Take, for instance, BCA vice president Clay Scofield’s assertion that the BCA will “hold accountable” those who “stand in the way” of their agenda. Such language smacks of playground bullying, not the reasoned discourse we expect in public policy. Our representatives should serve the interests of all Alabamians, not just the corporate elite.
More troubling, however, is the chasm between the BCA’s free-market platitudes and its actual policies. Advocating for gas tax hikes and economic incentive packages is the antithesis of genuine free-market principles. These measures often devolve into the government playing favorites – a practice that stifles innovation and entrenches cronyism.
Time and again, economic research has shown that targeted incentives rarely deliver on their grandiose promises. Instead, they squander taxpayer dollars and primarily serve to pad the pockets of politicians and their well-heeled allies. Real economic growth stems from fostering a competitive environment where all businesses have the opportunity to succeed, not just those with the most powerful lobbyists.
The BCA’s enthusiasm for “public-private partnerships” is equally suspect, bearing all the hallmarks of the very crony capitalism that true free-market advocates have long decried. While collaboration between sectors can, in theory, be beneficial, we must be vigilant against schemes that merely enrich a select few at the expense of the broader public.
Yet, all is not lost. The BCA stands at a crossroads and has the chance to realign its actions with its stated free-market values. By championing policies that ensure a level playing field for all businesses – whether large or small, established or startup – the BCA could indeed become a genuine force for sustainable economic growth in Alabama.
The time is now for the BCA to embrace authentic free-market solutions. With the right course correction, they could help forge an Alabama economy that works for everyone, not just the privileged few. The future prosperity of our state hinges on it.
Bryan Dawson is CEO of 1819 News. The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of 1819 News. To comment, please send an email with your name and contact information to Commentary@1819News.com.
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