Business Advocacy

Springfield City Council meeting: a case study The Chamber is focused on improving the business climate at all levels of government. Much of this work is done for our members and the business community behind the scenes, but sometimes all the pieces come together and demonstrate the way local government can work when operating at…

DOL’s overtime rule change blocked for now As you may have heard as you were heading out for the Thanksgiving holiday, a federal judge in Texas has granted a preliminary injunction that blocks implementation of the Department of Labor’s proposed new federal overtime rule. The rule, which would have more than doubled the salary threshold…

Chamber encourages members to vote NO on Amendment 3, Proposition A At the October 17 meeting of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, the board voted to oppose two statewide proposals that will appear on the November 8 ballot: Amendment 3 and Proposition A. Both proposals would increase Missouri’s tobacco tax by different amounts with funds…

Ambassador visit highlights need for international communication As the Japanese ambassador to the United States, Kenichiro Sasae knows the importance of interpersonal communication—regardless of cultural divides. “Human relationships matter,” he told an October 12 gathering of the Chamber’s International Business Council. “In Japan, we care about the relationships and the level of trust. Without knowing…

Greenville visit reinforces value of strong leadership, common vision One look at the downtown district of Greenville, South Carolina, makes it clear that great pride is taken in its center city. It’s also clear that the area’s development couldn’t have happened without clear vision and strong commitment from government, business, not-for-profits and the community. It…

Taking action in 2016 The Chamber’s advocacy efforts have been running full steam ahead in 2016. This infographic lays out just some of the valuable work our Public Affairs staff and volunteer leaders have completed and continue to perform for our members. Supported by BKD CPAs & Advisors

State, federal leaders offer insights in Springfield July was another busy month for the Chamber’s advocacy efforts, as leaders from both the state and federal level visited Springfield to hear from area business leaders and offer a glimpse at the political climate. Zweifel addresses Missouri’s fiscal health, growth When he visited the Chamber’s Governmental Relations…

Congressman Long offers recap, looks ahead When Congressman Billy Long visited the Chamber July 26 to speak to the Governmental Relations Committee, he offered both a look back at what has been accomplished this session and a look at what still needs to be done. Long—who has received several awards for his focus on business…

State treasurer addresses Missouri’s fiscal health, plans for growth Missouri is in good financial shape, though the next few years will be crucial in determining whether that healthy outlook continues. That was the message from Missouri State Treasurer Clint Zweifel when he visited the Chamber on July 7. Zweifel, speaking to the Chamber’s Governmental Relations…

Chamber advocacy brings state leaders to Springfield Even though the state legislative session wrapped up in May, the Chamber continues to connect members with state-level decision-makers. Numerous state leaders were in Springfield in June to share their stories and field questions from members. Thanking our legislative leaders Springfield metro community leaders gathered June 9 at…