NFIB endorses Haley, cites legislative compromise

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The state chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business has endorsed Gov. Nikki Haley in her re-election bid.

But the top item the group praised her for Tuesday was the work of the Legislature, against her tax-cut recommendations.

The group representing 4,000 companies applauded Haley for cutting taxes on small businesses.

In 2012, the Legislature approved cutting the income tax rate that small business owners pay on their earnings from 5 percent to 3 percent over three years. The issue caused a budget stalemate between the House and Senate that was resolved days before a government shutdown.

Haley’s budget had sought to eliminate corporate income taxes. She even toured the state criticizing legislators for not adopting her plan.

She did, however, praise the final budget for providing tax relief.