The chief budget writer of the Massachusetts House of Representatives said last week that the legislature and the business community must work together to expand economic growth, foster innovation, and ensure that Massachusetts remains a leader on the national and global stage.

House Ways and Means Committee Chair Aaron Michlewitz told 150 business leaders at an AIM Commonwealth Conversation that the responsibility of the House is to craft a state budget that aligns fiscal policies with the needs of residents and businesses, while also ensuring that our economy remains competitive and vibrant.

“We recognize that government cannot drive the economy on its own—it is the private sector, your businesses, that truly generate the jobs, growth, and innovation that define Massachusetts. However, government plays a critical role as a partner, and in some cases, a catalyst for that growth. Our role is to create the conditions where businesses can thrive by investing in infrastructure, education, workforce development, and providing the right regulatory framework that allows for both competition and protection of public interests,” Michlewitz said.

“In today’s rapidly changing world, collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential. As we look to expand the Massachusetts economy, it’s clear that we can’t simply rely on what has worked in the past. We must innovate, evolve, and embrace new approaches. That requires constant dialogue between legislators and business leaders, which is why today’s event is so important.”

Northeastern University hosted the Commonwealth Conversation in its new EXP technology building. Former House Speaker Robert DeLeo, a mentor to Michlewitz and currently a professor at Northeastern, introduced the Ways and Means Chair, who later conducted a one-on-one conversation with Stephanie Swanson, Executive Vice President of Government Affairs at AIM.

Michlewitz discussed several key areas upon which the legislature is focusing its efforts to ensure Massachusetts remains an economic leader. Beacon Hill priorities include housing, the transition to renewable energy and investment in transportation infrastructure. Michlewitz called for using the nearly $1 billion surplus from the income surtax to fund transportation improvements.

“Since a majority of funds from Fair Share have been spent on education, it is only right that a majority of the surplus funds available to us now go towards supporting our transportation infrastructure, particularly capital investments into the MBTA and other public transit needs. This is something that I look forward to working towards early in the new legislative session next year,” Michlewitz said.

He encouraged the business community to work with elected officials to address the challenges of the commonwealth’s economic future. When businesses thrive, he said, the state thrives. And when the state invests in the right areas, whether it’s infrastructure, housing, or sustainable policies—”we create the conditions for even greater success.”

“The path forward will not be without challenges. Economic uncertainty, rising costs, and global competition are realities we all face. But Massachusetts has always been a place where people come together to solve problems, and I am confident that by working in partnership, we can overcome these challenges and continue to build a stronger, more resilient economy.”

Swanson of AIM said the event created a unique opportunity for AIM members to speak with one of the most influential legislators in Massachusetts.