Advocacy in Action e-Newsletter Archives
The Chamber is hard at work throughout the year advocating for the priorities of the business community. Our Advocacy in Action e-Newsletter keeps you up to date on not only the Chamber's advocacy efforts, but on what's occurring in southwest Missouri, Jefferson City and Washington, D.C. that directly affects the business community.
The links below will show you web versions of previous editions of our Legislative Update newsletter. If you'd like to receive the newsletter by email as it's published, you can contact our Public Affairs team.
2026 Email Updates
- October 30, 2026 - Special November Election Edition
- Chamber Advocacy: Springfield Chamber Board of Directors announces opposition to Amendment 6, including information on the Chamber's position and resources for employers to share with their teams.
- Statewide Ballot: Overview of proposed constitutional amendments and other statewide measures appearing on the November 3 ballot.
- Local Ballot: Information on the four proposed Springfield City Charter amendments and other local ballot issues.
- Voter Resources: Important election dates, polling information sample ballots and resources to help voters prepare for Election Day.
- September 1, 2026
- Fast Facts & Resources: Call for legislative issues, City to host second public engagement session over data center development, upcoming Mayor's community conversation
- Event Recap: Fort Leonard Wood Visit
- State: Missouri primary election results
- Federal: July jobs report shows labor market slowdown, Senate advances short-term government funding measure
- Local: Four Charter amendments placed on November ballot, City Council extends evaluation of potential professional soccer stadium, first round of Neighborhood Works+ projects recommended
- July 31, 2026
- Event Recap: State of the State with Governor Mike Kehoe
- State: Missouri primary election on August 4, Governor signs two business priority bills expanding economic development tools and clarifying contractor liability protections
- Federal: House advances short-term government funding bill, House passes annual defense policy bill
- Local: City Council approves incentives for new Andy’s Frozen Custard headquarters, Springfield awarded $3.58 million EPA grant for downtown cleanup, public input open on proposed trash and recycling code updates
- July 10, 2026
- Upcoming Chamber Events: State of the State with Governor Mike Kehoe, Fort Leonard Wood visit
- Event Recap: Business leader roundtable with Attorney General Catherine Hanaway
- State: FY2027 budget signed with vetoes and spending restrictions, upcoming August ballot information, Missouri Chamber free webinar on ADA website lawsuit legislation, state-led business input opportunities on AI and government efficiency
- Federal: Federal housing bill awaits presidential action, June jobs report shows slowing labor market
- Local: Route MM widening receives $23.5 million federal grant, City Council takes steps on data center moratorium, new Citizens’ Advisory Board members recommended
- June 11, 2026
- Upcoming Chamber Events: State of the State with Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, Fort Leonard Wood visit
- Event Recap: Inside the Issues: New Tools for Entrepreneurship, Regulatory Relief and Economic Growth
- State: Member priorities guided Chamber advocacy during the 2026 session, four constitutional amendments on August primary ballot, Rep. Bill Owen announced as next House Budget Chair
- Federal: Federal transportation package advances in committee
- Local: Mayor Schrag delivers his annual State of the City address, passage of landbank legislation spurs next steps, City of Springfield accepting applications for Citizens' Advisory Board, contractor selected for $471 million I-44 improvement project, Springfield-Branson National Airport names new director
- May 19, 2026
- Upcoming Chamber Events: Inside the Issues: New Tools for Entrepreneurship, Regulatory Relief and Economic Growth, 2026 State of the State with Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe
- State: 2026 legislative session concluded on May 15 with passage of key business priorities and budget investments
- Federal: Organized retail crime legislation advances to the Senate, federal gas tax suspension proposal introduced
- Local: Main Avenue Bridge project moves forward following eminent domain agreement
- May 5, 2026
- Fast Facts and Resources: Mayor Schrag to host second Mayor's Community Conversation
- State: Income tax elimination proposal advances to the ballot, key legislative priorities continue to progress, FY2027 state budget moves forward
- Federal: DHS funding advances as broader federal budget negotiations continue
- Local: City Council acts on campaign finance and Medical Mile development, Springfield celebrates Route 66 centennial milestone, Hammons Field renamed Route 66 Stadium
- April 17, 2026
- Fast Facts & Resources: Mayor Schrag to host first Mayor's Community Conversation
- Event Recap: The Network's Advocacy Day
- State: Proposal to eliminate the state income tax passes in the Senate, continued progress on key legislative priorities, Fiscal Year 2027 state budget advances for full Senate consideration
- Federal: Federal funding negotiations ongoing amid budget uncertainty
- Local: Springfield voters reject proposed hotel/motel tax increase, City Council is set to take action of several development proposals at their April 20 meeting
- April 6, 2026
- April 7 Election: Vote YES on Question 1!
- Event Recap: Public Policy Speaker Series with Senator Curtis Trent
- State: Progress on key legislative priorities, income tax elimination proposal gains momentum, capital budget investments advance
- Federal: Federal funding negotiations ongoing amid budget uncertainty
- Local: March 23 City Council updates, Springfield MSA surpasses 500,000 residents
- March 13, 2026
- Upcoming Chamber Events: Public Policy Speaker Series with Senator Curtis Trent
- Event Recaps: Chamber Board Executive Committee Advocacy Day, Transportation Committee Advocacy Day
- State: Fiscal Year 2027 budget progresses, Chamber advocacy supports progress on key legislative priorities, Missouri Technology Corporation names new Executive Director
- Federal: U.S. Department of Education proposes new Workforce Pell Grant for short-term job training
- Local: Chamber resources available for April 7 ballot measure, City to launch rental inspection program, March 9 City Council updates
- February 20, 2026
- Fast Facts & Resources:
- Chamber board endorses April 7 lodging tax proposal to advance regional convention and events center
- Friends of SGF launches campaign support
- Final community visioning workshop for Springfield Expo Center scheduled for February 26
- City leaders host “Coffee Talk” prior to April 2026 election
- State: Movement on business community priorities, FAQ on rezoning through referendum petition
- Fast Facts & Resources:
- February 10, 2026
- Fast Facts & Resources: Second community visioning workshop for Springfield Expo Center scheduled for February 11
- Event Recaps: Springfield Metro Partnership Advocacy Day, Salute to Missouri Legislators
- State: Movement on business community priorities, FAQ on rezoning through referendum petition
- Federal: Federal government shutdown is avoided with House vote
- Local: Springfield to host National Route 66 Celebration, Community visioning workshop for Convention and Event center, City Council approves initiative to fund year-round litter removal
- January 29, 2026
- Event Recaps: 2026 Ozarks Regional Advocacy Day, Chamber Board Legislative Luncheon
- State: Governor Kehoe gives his 2026 State of the State address, movement on business priorities
- Federal: U.S. House of Representatives passes federal funding bill needed to avert a government shutdown
- Local: Springfield City Council members to host town hall meetings, City Council advances a revised 3% lodging tax proposal to the April 7 ballot, Citizens’ Advisory Board allocates funding for the Springfield Art Museum, along with parks, trails and neighborhood planning projects
- January 9, 2026
- Upcoming Events: Springfield Metro Partnership Salute to Missouri Legislators, upcoming events at the Chamber
- State: Missouri 2026 legislative session convenes, FY2027 Consensus Revenue Estimate, Missouri minimum wage increases to $15 an hour, $216 million secured for rural healthcare
- Federal: Federal Reserve cuts interest rates following a divided vote
- Local: City of Springfield seeks contractors for home repair projects, City of Springfield invites project ideas through Neighborhood Works+ program, Springfield officials consider revisions to a proposed convention and event center
2025 Email Updates
- October 31, 2025
- Fast Facts and Resources: Councilman Jenson to host Zone 3 town hall on November 5, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
- Upcoming Events: Inside the Issues with State Representative Melanie Stinnett.
- Event Recap: Public Policy Speaker Series with Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis President & CEO Alberto Musalem.
- State: Review of Missouri's K-12 funding formula modernization, State directs emergency food aid amid federal SNAP funding lapse.
- Federal: Federal government shutdown continues amid ongoing budget negotiations.
- Local: Proposed rental inspection pilot presented to City Council, public meetings continue for citywide zoning remapping, Chamber resources available for November 4 ballot measure.
- October 14, 2025
- Upcoming Events: Inside the Issues with State Representative Melanie Stinnett
- State: Outcomes from 2025 Special Legislative Session, including Congressional redistricting and potential changes to the initiative petition process, important dates for 2026 Legislative Session
- Federal: Government shutdown continues
- Local: Citywide remapping process presented to City Council, October 6 City Council updates, Chamber resources available for November 4 ballot measure
- September 12, 2025
- Fast Facts and Resources: Call for Chamber legislative issues
- Upcoming Events: Public Policy Speaker Series with President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis Alberto Musalem.
- State: Missouri special legislative session focuses on Congressional redistricting and initiative petition reform, Representative Alex Riley named Speaker-Designee, Missouri Child Care Works launches
- Federal: Upcoming fiscal policy deadlines
- Local: City leaders reach compromise on business licensing ordinance, Chamber resources now available for November 4 ballot measure
- August 29, 2025
- Fast Facts and Resources: Call for Chamber legislative issues, 2025 Governor's Conference on Economic Development
- Event Recap: Public Policy Speaker Series with Missouri Dept. of Economic Development Director Hataway
- State: New leadership in Missouri Attorney General's office, new state laws effective August 28
- Federal: Potential redistricting of Missouri congressional map
- Local: Rental inspection pilot program update, CMaR model adopted for regional convention center, Citizens' Advisory Board discusses FY27 project investments, Alliance for Healthcare Education groundbreaking
- July 31, 2025
- Fast Facts and Resources: Call for legislative issues, 2025 Governor's Conference on Economic Development
- Upcoming Events: Public Policy Speaker Series with DED Director Hataway
- Event Recap: 2025 State of the State with Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe
- State: Governor Kehoe signs legislation repealing paid sick leave and creating a capital gains exemption, Southwest Missouri representatives included in recent gubernatorial appointments
- Federal: President Trump announces a new tiered tariff structure, potential Missouri Congressional redistricting
- Local: July 28 City Council updates, Springfield's Citizens' Advisory Board makes funding recommendations, Springfield-Branson National Airport anticipates record breaking year
- July 9, 2025
- Fast Facts and Resources: Call for legislative issues
- Upcoming Events: 2025 State of the State with Governor Mike Kehoe, Public Policy Speaker Series with DED Director Hataway
- Event Recap: Inside the Issues with Representative Betsy Fogle
- State: FY2026 budget signed with vetoes and spending restrictions; pending action on paid sick leave repeal, minimum wage adjustments, childcare licensure reform, MSU doctoral expansion
- Federal: New tax cut legislation lowering individual and small business rates
- Local: June 23 City Council updates, David Cameron sworn in as city manager, convention & events center feasibility study reviewed
- June 23, 2025
- Fast Facts and Resources: Public meeting to reestablish Kearney Street Corridor Redevelopment Plan on June 24
- Upcoming Events: 2025 State of the State with Governor Mike Kehoe, Public Policy Speaker Series with DED Director Hataway
- State: Governor Kehoe signs legislation passed during special legislative session, Rep. Alex Riley announces bid for Speaker of the House, first meeting of the Missouri School Funding Modernization Task Force
- Federal: Senate confirms former Congressman Billy Long as IRS Commissioner
- Local: CoxHealth and St.Louis Children's Hospital announce partnership for a new pediatric hospital, lawsuit seeks to force certification of Chimney Rock subdivision referendum
- June 3, 2025
- Fast Facts and Resources: Public open house about Sunshine Street Corridor Study on June 3
- Upcoming Events: Inside the Issues with State Rep. Betsy Fogle, Public Policy Speaker Series with DED Director Hataway, 2025 State of the State with Governor Mike Kehoe
- State: Governor Kehoe calls for a special legislative session, outlining priorities of storm relief, stadium subsidies, and capital projects
- Federal: Presidential tariffs upheld by appeals court, President Trump's tax bill passed in the House
- Local: David Cameron approved as Springfield city manager, May 19 City Council summary
- May 20, 2025
- Fast Facts and Resources: Proposition A update
- Upcoming Chamber Events: Public Policy Speaker Series with DED Director Hataway, Inside the Issues with State Representative Fogle
- State: 2025 legislative session concluded on May 16, passage of key business priorities and budget investments
- Federal: Deadline for tariff negotiations approaches
- Local: David Cameron selected as City Manager, Springfield City Council updates
- May 13, 2025
- Fast Facts and Resources: Proposition A challenges and communication
- Upcoming Events: Public Policy Speaker Series with DED Director Michelle Hataway, Inside the Issues with State Rep. Betsy Fogle
- State: Final week of the 2025 legislative session begins, Fiscal Year 2026 budget passed with the exception of House Bill 19, movement on business-community priorities, two Springfield representatives announce Senate candidacy, task force appointed by Governor to review foundation formula funding, State Board of Education elects new leadership
- Federal: April job growth holds steady, U.S. and China reach trade deal agreement, potential congressional challenges to tariffs
- Local: Councilwoman Hardinger elected Mayor Pro Tem, Springfield launched a civic engagement initiative, Galloway Village lawsuit against the City of Springfield
- April 25, 2025
- Fast Facts and Resources: April 8 Election results, Proposition A call to action
- Upcoming Events: Public Policy Speaker Series with Michelle Hataway
- Event Recap: Inside the Issues with Greene County Clerk Shane Schoeller
- State: Movement on budget and business community priorities, State Board of Education appointments
- Federal: President Trump pauses tariffs for trade negotiations, U.S. House approves budget resolution
- Local: Finalists named in Springfield City Manager search, Springfield names host city of national Route 66 Centennial
- April 8, 2025
- Important Reminders: Don't forget to vote, Proposition A notification requirement on April 15
- Upcoming Events: Understanding Proposition A Webinar, Inside the Issues: Post-Election Insights with Greene County Clerk Shane Schoeller
- State: Capital gains tax cut, movement on business community priorities and budget
- Federal: March jobs added, budget resolution goes to the House, Trump administration announces tariff plan
- Local: I-44 groundbreaking, Mayor statement on City Manager search
- March 28, 2025
- April 2025 Election Resources – Be sure to vote on April 8!
- Upcoming Events: Inside the Issues: Post-Election Insights with Greene County Clerk Shane Schoeller
- Chamber Event Recap: Public Policy Speaker Series with House Majority Floor Leader Alex Riley
- State: Fiscal Year 2026 budget progresses, movement on business community priorities
- Federal: Funding cuts for the Department of Education, Small Business Administration restructuring
- Local: March 24 City Council summary
- March 14, 2025
- April 8 Election Update & Resources
- Upcoming Events: Public Policy Speaker Series with House Majority Floor Leader Alex Riley
- Chamber Event Recaps: Network Advocacy Day, Springfield Chamber Executive Committee Advocacy Day
- State: Movement on business community priorities
- Federal: Federal stopgap funding bill proposed, Corporate Transparency Act enforcement reduced
- Local: Greene County property tax freeze for seniors, Chimney Rock subdivision opposition, Citizens' Advisory Board recommendations
- March 4, 2025
- April 8 Election Updates
- Upcoming Events: Public Policy Speaker Series with House Majority Floor Leader Alex Riley
- Event Recap: Inside the Issues: Navigating Proposition A - Compliance Strategies and Insights for Employers
- State: Movement on business community priorities
- Federal: Proposed Medicaid funding cuts, Corporate Transparency Act enforcement resumes
- Local: Towing ordinance for expired plates approved, tenants’ rights proposal under committee review
- February 14, 2025
- Upcoming Events: Inside the Issues: Navigating Proposition A - Compliance and Implementation Strategies
- State: Movement on business community priorities
- Federal: United States House releases budget proposal to raise the federal debt limit
- Local: February 10 City Council highlights, Planning and Zoning Commission land development code approval
- February 4, 2025
- Fast Facts and Resources: Renew Jordan Creek business outreach
- Event Recaps: Chamber Board Legislative Luncheon, Ozarks Regional Advocacy Day
- State: Governor Kehoe prioritizes public safety and education in his first State of the State Address, movement on business priorities
- Federal: Trump Administration rescinds federal grant freeze amid legal challenges, 2025 State of the Union address scheduled for March 4
- Local: January 27 City Council summary, Restore SGF expands with new interior improvement program
- January 22, 2025
- Fast Facts and Resources: Spring Forward SGF Citizens' Advisory Board, upcoming events at the Chamber
- Event Recap: Public Policy Speaker Series with Outgoing District 132 Representative Crystal Quade, Springfield Metro Partnership advocacy day, Salute to Missouri Legislators
- State: 2025 Chamber advocacy efforts, General Assembly priorities, Teacher Recruitment and Retention Playbook released
- Federal: 2025 Chamber advocacy efforts, inauguration of President Trump
- Local: Greene County budget approved for 2025, candidates certified for April 2025 election, Le Compte Road funding approved by City Council
2024 Email Updates
- December 19, 2024
- Fast Facts and Resources: Springfield Metro Partnership Salute to Missouri Legislators, 3/4-cent sales tax committee, upcoming events at the Chamber
- State: Missouri 2024 legislative session, FY2026 Consensus Revenue Estimate, Minimum wage and paid sick leave lawsuit, credential training program applications, nursing program grant funding
- Federal: Corporate Transparency Act enforcement halted
- Local: Interim City Manager appointment, soccer stadium feasibility study, Renew Jordan Creek development
- November 26, 2024
- Fast Facts and Resources: Upcoming events and key updates
- State: Statewide election results and employer expectations
- Local: 3/4-cent sales tax passes, local candidate results
- Federal: Federal election results, preparing for Corporate Transparency Act FinCEN compliance by January 1, 2025
- October 22, 2024
- Fast Facts and Resources: Chamber Board takes position on two November ballot measures, upcoming events at the Chamber
- State: Credential Training Program applications, Public Policy Speaker Series with DHEWD Commissioner Dr. Boggs
- Local: City Manager tenders resignation, Gugel named as city's Building Development Services Director, O'Reilly Automotive opens new distribution center
- Federal: Stop-gap spending bill approved through December
- September 9, 2024
- Fast Facts and Resources: Call for legislative issues, upcoming events at the Chamber
- State: November 2024 statewide ballot information, upcoming veto session, Department of Transportation leadership change
- Local: 3/4-cent public safety pension tax replacement approved for November ballot, extension for Community Development Needs survey, City Utilities names new president and CEO
- August 5, 2024
- August 2024 Election Resources - Be sure to vote on August 6!
- Fast Facts and Resources: Call for legislative issues, 2024 Governor's Conference on Economic Development, upcoming events at the Chamber
- State: Governor Parson highlights major accomplishments from his time in office at the Chamber's 2024 State of the State
- Local: July 22 City Council updates, Evangel joins Alliance for Healthcare Education
- Federal: Federal Trade Commission's changes to noncompete agreements are coming into effect on September 4
- July 2, 2024
- Fast Facts and Resources: State of the State, Call for legislative issues
- Chamber Event Recaps: Inside the Issues with Rep. Melanie Stinnett
- State: Governor issues fiscal year 2025 vetoes
- Local: June 24 City Council updates, RAISE Grant awarded for Ungap the Map initiative
- Federal: Department of Labor new overtime regulations now in effect
- May 22, 2024
- Upcoming Chamber Events: Inside the Issues with Representative Melanie Stinnett, Day Trip to Ft. Leonard Wood, 2024 State of the State with Governor Mike Parson
- State: 2024 legislative session concludes on May 17, passage of key business priorities and budget investments
- Local: Springfield City Council updates
- May 13, 2024
- Upcoming Events: Inside the Issues with Representative Melanie Stinnett
- Event Recaps: Public Policy Speaker Series with Missouri Supreme Court Judge Ginger Gooch
- State: Final week of the 2024 legislative session begins, Fiscal Year 2025 budget passed
- Federal: Federal Trade Commission bans noncompetes
- Local: May 6 City Council summary, Missouri judge issues ruling for municipalities to stack marijuana sales tax
- April 23, 2024
- Fast Facts and Resources: April 2 Election Results
- Upcoming Events: Public Policy Speaker Series with Judge Ginger Gooch, Inside the Issues with Representative Melanie Stinnett
- Event Recaps: Network Advocacy Day
- State: Movement on business community priorities, recent appointments to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission & State Board of Education
- Local: April 8 City Council summary
- April 1, 2024
- April 2024 Election Resources - Be sure to vote on April 2!
- Event Recaps: Transportation Advocacy Day
- State: House Budget Committee proposes FY25 budget, movement on business community priorities
- Federal: Senate passes federal spending package
- Local: March 25 City Council summary
- March 12, 2024
- April 2, 2024 Election Updates
- Upcoming Events: Business After Hours with Governor Mike Parson
- Chamber Event Recaps: Springfield Chamber Executive Committee Advocacy Day, Springfield Chamber R-12 Board of Education Candidate Meet & Greet
- State: Movement on business community priorities
- Federal: State of the Union address, federal spending package approved
- Local: February 26 City Council summary, March 11 City Council summary
- February 20, 2024
- Event Recaps: Springfield Metro Partnership Advocacy Day, Salute to Legislators, Chamber Board Legislative Luncheon
- State: Movement on business community priorities
- Federal: 2024 State of the Union address scheduled for March 7
- Local: February 12 City Council summary
- January 30, 2024
- 2023 Advocacy in Action Recap Video
- Upcoming Events: Springfield Metro Partnership Salute to Missouri Legislators
- State: Governor announces funding for infrastructure and workforce development, movement on business community priorities
- Federal: Federal funding secured for I-70 expansion
- Local: January 22 City Council summary
- January 16, 2024
- Upcoming Events: Springfield Metro Partnership Salute to Missouri Legislators
- Event Recap: Inside the Issues: Bridging the Child Care Gap
- State: 2024 Chamber advocacy efforts, General Assembly priorities, recent appointments to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission
- Federal: Congressional leaders announce an agreement on spending levels
- Local: January 8 City Council summary, April 2024 ballot measures
2023 Email Updates
- December 21, 2023
- Upcoming Events: Inside the Issues: Bridging the Child Care Gap, Springfield Metro Partnership Salute to Missouri Legislators
- State: 2024 legislative session, Emergency child care funding approved by state board, State Senator to take top position at DESE, Statewide prescription drug monitoring program goes live
- Federal: FinCEN Final Rule requirements effective January 1, 2024
- Local: December 11 City Council summary, Council discussed charter changes, Springfield Business Development Corporation (SBDC) awarded Missouri Technology Corporation grant
- November 21, 2023
- Chamber Action Update: Chamber board approves new model for Springfield City Council election engagement
- Fast Facts and Resources: CoxHealth and Mercy announce collaborative effort to expand children's services, Department of Corrections Director Precythe announces retirement
- State: Senator Karla Eslinger shares insights at Public Policy Speaker Series, recent Southern District judicial appointment to Missouri Supreme Court
- Federal: President Biden signs temporary spending bill to avoid government shutdown
- Local: Springfield municipality's recent employment announcements, highlights from Springfield City Council November meetings
- September 29, 2023
- Fast Facts and Resources: ARPA small business grants now available, upcoming Chamber events
- Event Recap: Business leaders discuss legislative priorities with State Representative Alex Riley
- State: Veto session concludes without overrides, recent judicial appointment to Missouri Supreme Court
- Federal: Stopgap deal proposed to avoid shutdown, President Biden's proposed overtime rule
- Local: September 18 Springfield City Council summary
- August 29, 2023
- Fast Facts and Resources: Alliance for Healthcare Education announcement, call for legislative issues
- Event Recap: Childcare Roundtable with business leaders and local providers
- State: Upcoming veto session, recent judicial appointments
- Federal: Short-term funding bill considered to avoid shutdown
- Local: August 21 Springfield City Council summary
- August 7, 2023
- Fast Facts and Resources: Call for legislative issues, 2023 Governor's Conference on Economic Development, upcoming events at the Chamber
- State: Governor Parson highlights infrastructure and workforce investments at the Chamber's 2023 State of the State
- Local: July 24 Springfield City Council summary, August 8 ballot measure
- July 17, 2023
- Fast Facts and Resources: State of the State, Call for legislative issues
- State: Governor issues fiscal year 2024 vetoes
- Local: July 10 Springfield City Council summary
- Federal: President Biden suspends federal debt limit
- May 19, 2023
- Upcoming Chamber Events: Inside the Issues with Missouri Dept. of Corrections Director Anne Precythe, State of the State
- State: 2023 legislative session concludes on May 12, passage of key business priorities and budget investments
- Local: Springfield City Council updates
- May 1, 2023
- Fast Facts and Resources: April 4th Election Results
- Chamber Event Recaps: Network Advocacy Day
- State: Fiscal Year 2024 budget progresses, due by May 5; movement on business-community priorities
- Local: April 17 Council summary
- March 31, 2023
- April 4th Election Updates
- Chamber Event Recaps: Springfield Chamber R-12 Board of Education Forum, Transportation Advocacy Day
- State: House passes FY24 budget, movement on business-community priorities, ARPA funding update
- Local: March 20 Council summary
- March 1, 2023
- Chamber Action Update: Chamber board endorses R-12 Proposition S
- State: Updates from the Governor's office, state legislature, and ARPA funding
- Federal: U.S. Congressman Eric Burlison shares federal insights at Public Policy Speaker Series
- Local: February 21 Council summary
- February 17, 2023
- Upcoming Events: Public Policy Speaker Series with U.S. Congressman Eric Burlison
- Event Recaps: Inside the Issues with Rep. Alex Riley
- State: Governor announces funding for childcare partnerships, movement on business community priorities
- Federal: State of the Union Address, debt ceiling challenges
- Local: February 6 Council summary
- January 30, 2023
- Upcoming Events: Inside the Issues with Rep. Alex Riley, Public Policy Speaker Series with Congressman Eric Burlison
- Event Recaps: Chamber Board Legislative Luncheon, Springfield Metro Partnership Advocacy Day, Salute to Legislators
- State: Movement on business community priorities
- Federal: FTC proposes rule to ban non-compete agreements
- Local: January 23 Council summary
- January 11, 2023
- Upcoming Events: Salute to Missouri Legislators, Inside the Issues with Rep. Alex Riley
- State: 2023 Springfield Chamber advocacy efforts
- Federal: U.S. House of Representatives confirms Speaker
- Local: January 9 Council summary, April 2023 ballot measures
2022 Email Updates
- December 21, 2022
- Fast Facts and Resources: SMP Salute to Missouri Legislators, Community Leadership Visit podcast, Missouri Chamber Amendment 3 webinar
- Event Recap: Public Policy Speaker Series with the Honorable Jerry Harmison
- State: 2023 legislative session, statewide and judicial appointments, Fast Track application open
- Federal: U.S. Chamber sign-on letters to support independent contractors, avoid rail strike
- Local: Local higher education institutions receive state funding, December 12 Council summary
- October 27, 2022
- Upcoming Policy Events
- Missouri Chamber childcare funding information for businesses
- 60 Minutes to Success: Let's Keep Our Businesses and Community Safe
- Public Policy Speaker Series with Judge Jerry Harmison
- State: Updates on state ARPA grants and feedback opportunities
- Federal: Senator Blunt shares insights and reflections
- Local: October 17 City Council summary
- Upcoming Policy Events
- October 10, 2022
- Fast Facts and Resources: Chamber Board endorses Galloway rezoning, call for legislative issues
- State: Governor signs income tax cut and agricultural tax credit programs into law, small business feedback requested on child care challenges, state ARPA funding opportunities
- Federal: Federal government funding continued through mid-December
- Local: October 3 City Council summary
- August 29, 2022
- Fast Facts and Resources: School board candidate endorsement policy change, call for legislative issues, ARPA tourism feedback
- State: Upcoming special session, DED ARPA grant programs
- Federal: President Biden signs Inflation Reduction Act, announces student loan cancelation proposal
- Local: City awarded workforce and infrastructure federal grants, County opens non-profit ARPA grant application, August 22 City Council summary
- August 9, 2022
- Fast Facts and Resources: Call for legislative issues, 2022 Governor's Conference on Economic Development, FLW Meet Your Army event, upcoming events at the Chamber
- State: Governor Parson highlights successes at the Chamber's State of the State, August election recap, ARPA grants update
- Federal: Senate passes Inflation Reduction Act
- Local: County announces small business ARPA awards, recent City Council actions
- July 11, 2022
- Fast Facts and Resources: Call for legislative issues, State of the State, Forward SGF Revealed
- Event Recap: Governmental Relations Committee with State Senator Lincoln Hough
- State: Governor issues budget vetoes for Springfield projects and signs additional priorities into law, Dept. of Economic Development seeks feedback on ARPA grant program
- Local: City and County outline local ARPA investments, June 27 City Council recap
- May 24, 2022
- Fast Facts and Resources
- End of Session Recap with Sen. Lincoln Hough (5/31)
- Missouri Dept. of Economic Development Update (6/13)
- Recent Lt. Governor Kehoe visit to OTC
- State: 2022 Legislative Session Recap
- Workforce and Economic Development
- K-12 and Higher Education
- Budget
- Upholding Pro-Business Policy
- Unfinished Priorities
- Local: May 16 City Council recap
- Fast Facts and Resources
- May 12, 2022
- Fast Track Call to Action & FY23 Budget Summary
- May 3, 2022
- Fast Facts and Resources
- Event Recap: Public Policy Speaker Series with Missouri Senate President Pro Tem Dave Schatz
- State: Legislative session update - budget work, floor debate, Fast Track, land bank, initiative petition reform, childcare, congressional map
- Local: April 18 & May 2 City Council recap
- April 18, 2022
- Fast Facts and Resources
- Greene County ARPA Small Business Funding
- April 19 Grant Avenue Parkway workshop
- April 22 Public Policy Speaker Series with Sen. Dave Schatz
- State: Network Advocacy Day, legislative session updates, director hired to oversee statewide PDMP
- Local: April 4 City Council recap, April 18 meeting considerations
- Fast Facts and Resources
- April 4, 2022
- Fast Facts and Resources
- State: Transportation stakeholders advocate in Jefferson City, House and Senate at odds over Congressional map, House budget committee finalizes FY23 budget changes
- Federal: New SBA resource for small businesses
- Local: March 21 City Council summary
- March 22, 2022
- Fast Facts and Resources
- Mid-Session Legislative Update
- Political climate
- Workforce and economic development
- Budget progress
- Tort reform
- Transportation infrastructure
- Initiative petition reform
- Local priorities
- COVID-19 legislation
- March 9, 2022
- Chamber Endorsement for SPS Board: Chad Courtney and Charles Taylor
- State: Chamber Board advocates for business priorities, Rep. Alex Riley provides session updates, Governor announces new Acting DHSS Director
- Local: City announces Economic Vitality Director, BDS Director resigns, March 7 City Council Summary
- February 25, 2022
- Upcoming Event: Legislative Session Update with State Rep. Alex Riley
- State: Congressional redistricting and Senate dynamics, Senate passes top workforce development priority, initiative petition reform, vaccine requirements for employers, supplemental budget signed by Governor
- Federal: Congress approves stopgap funding measure, pilot program to address truck driver shortage
- Local: Zone 1 Councilmember vacates seat to run for state Senate, February 22 Council meeting summary
- February 15, 2022
- Recap: Workforce and Higher Education Roundtable with Governor Mike Parson
- State: Senate members filibuster Congressional redistricting, House passes initiative petition reform and supplemental budget, Chamber continues advocacy for priorities
- Federal: House passes resolution to continue temporary government funding
- Local: February 7 City Council summary
- February 2, 2022
- Fast Facts and Resources
- Event Recaps: SMP Salute to Legislators and Advocacy Day, Chamber Board Legislative Luncheon, Inside the Issues
- State: Legislature cancels session, bill movement, roadblocks for congressional redistricting and DHSS director
- Federal: U.S. Chamber provides updated resources on federal infrastructure bill
- Local: January 24 City Council summary
- January 19, 2022
- Advocacy in Action 2021 Recap
- State: Chamber legislative agendas finalized, 2022 legislative session updates, Governor Parson budget proposal, scheduled minimum wage increase is implemented
- COVID-19: U.S. Supreme Court halts private business OSHA vaccine mandate, state task force recommends ways to support small business
- Federal: U.S. and Missouri Chamber note childcare barriers to workforce in Missouri
- Local: January 10 City Council summary
2021 Email Updates
- November 8, 2021
- OSHA COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements
- What is required for employers under this ruling?
- How do I determine if this ruling applies to my organization?
- What is the timeline for implementation?
- What should be included in a written mandatory vaccination policy?
- What information am I required to provide to employees?
- What is required if I offer unvaccinated employees the testing option?
- What records do I need to keep regarding vaccination and testing status?
- Where can I learn more about this OSHA standard?
- OSHA COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements
- October 20, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources: Upcoming Events!
- In Case You Missed It:
- Show Me Strong Recovery Listening Session
- Public Policy Speaker Series with DED Director Rob Dixon
- Governmental Relations Committee Meeting with Rep. Bill Owen
- University of Missouri celebrates 5-year anniversary with ribbon cutting
- Federal: Congressional updates
- State: COVID-19 vaccine update, several changes in state department directors
- Local: October 18 City Council summary
- September 2, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources: Feedback requested, recent event recaps
- COVID-19 Update: Pfizer fully approved by FDA, vaccination data, Governor terminates state of emergency
- Federal: Infrastructure bill passes Senate, supplemental SVOG grants open
- State: Expanded Medicaid population able to apply, gas tax referendum efforts end, state announces $400M broadband investment
- Local: August 23 City Council summary
- July 30, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources
- NEW: e-Newsletter changes!
- Call for Legislative Issues
- ICYMI: Governmental Relations Committee with First-Year Representatives, State of the State with Governor Mike Parson
- COVID-19 Update: Vaccination data, Springfield lawmakers host vaccine clinic, CDC updates guidance for vaccinated individuals, state approves SGCHD request for COVID-19 aid, new state and Missouri Chamber vaccine incentive program
- Federal: Infrastructure agreement, streamlined PPP forgiveness portal, Restaurant Revitalization Fund closes applications, live venue grant opportunities still available
- State: Governor signs several business priority bills, Medicaid expansion ruled constitutional, new DHSS director
- Local: Towns named SGCHD director, July 26 City Council summary
- Fast Facts and Resources
- July 9, 2021 - COVID-19 Update
- Urgent COVID-19 Vaccine Resources for Employers
- July 1, 2021
- Upcoming Policy Events:
- Governmental Relations Committee (July 16)
- 2021 State of the State (July 27)
- Public Policy Speaker Series (August 20)
- Federal: Infrastructure agreement, Transportation Services (CERTS) Program information
- State: Governor signs FRA renewal, Fiscal Year 2022 budget, and Internet sales tax bill, Medicaid expansion lawsuit ruling
- Local: June 28 City Council summary
- Upcoming Policy Events:
- June 17, 2021
- Event Reminder: Public Policy Speaker Series with Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe
- Fast Facts and Resources: COVID-19 vaccination update
- Federal: Blunt announces bill to expand mental health services, Burrell Behavioral Health celebration
- State: Governor signs PDMP bill, upcoming special session
- Local: Wasson Idea Loft dedication, June 14 City Council summary
- June 2, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources: Springfield ends COVID-19 restrictions, Mayor editorial, vaccine update, Good Morning, Springfield reminder
- Federal: Restaurant grant program and PPP updates, ARP local funds
- State: Legislative session resource recap, Medicaid expansion lawsuit, gas tax referendum
- Local: Judge rules in Galloway rezoning, June 1 City Council summary
- May 17, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources: CDC mask update, Springfield City Council restriction considerations, Missouri ends federal unemployment benefits and withdraws Medicaid expansion plan
- State Legislative Session Recap
- May 12, 2021: Legislature approves gas tax increase, PDMP
- May 10, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources: Vaccine administration update
- Recap: Network Leadership Council Advocacy Day
- Federal: Restaurant grant program and PPP updates
- State: Final week of legislative session
- Local: May 3 City Council summary
- April 26, 2021
- Call to Action: Medicaid expansion funding
- Federal: Restaurant grant program timeline and program details, live venue grant portal reopened, IRS and Treasury update on PPP deductible expenses and paid leave tax credits
- State: COVID-19 vaccine updates, movement on state priorities
- Local: April 19 City Council summary
- April 12, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources: Municipal election results, City Road to Recovery, COVID-19 Vaccine Toolkit
- Recap: Virtual 2021 Transportation Advocacy Day
- Federal: Live venue grant portal suspended
- State: COVID-19 vaccine updates, unemployment update, movement on state priorities, Governor Parson COVID-19 briefings
- Local: April 5 City Council summary
- March 30, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources: Don't forget to vote on Tuesday, April 6
- Recap: Inside the Issues - Vaccinating Our Region's Workforce
- Federal: SBA announces timeline for live venue and restaurant grant programs, PPP extension and update, CDC issues updated workplace vaccination guidance
- State: COVID-19 vaccine updates, economic recovery update, unemployment update and funding for UI trust fund, movement on state priorities
- Local: March 22 City Council summary
- March 10, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources: CDC guidance for fully vaccinated individuals
- Federal: Federal COVID-19 relief bill passed, Senator Blunt announces he will not seek re-election, U.S. adds 379,000 jobs in February
- State: COVID-19 vaccine updates, FY21 withholds released, movement on state priorities, state unemployment update, Governor's COVID-19 briefings
- Local: City begins discussions on Road to Recovery next steps, March 8 City Council summary
- March 5, 2021
- Includes specific information about local, state and federal COVID-19 vaccine updates, resources and guidance.
- February 23, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources: COVID-19 vaccine updated, Chamber vaccine outreach
- Federal: Paycheck Protection Program update, federal COVID-19 relief
- State: COVID-19 vaccine updates, movement on state priorities, state unemployment, Governor's COVID-19 briefings
- Local: February 22 City Council summary, Springfield-Greene County Health Dept. COVID-19 update
- February 12, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources: COVID-19 vaccine resource updates
- Federal: New U.S. Chamber vaccine center, federal COVID-19 relief update, nationwide unemployment
- State: COVID-19 vaccine updates, movement on state priorities this week, state unemployment, Governor's COVID-19 briefings
- Local: New maintenance facility at Springfield-Branson airport, February 8 City Council summary, Springfield-Greene County Health Dept. COVID-19 update
- February 4, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources: SGGC-endorsed City Council candidates, COVID-19 vaccine resource update
- Federal: U.S. Chamber event recap, federal COVID-19 efforts, nationwide unemployment
- State: COVID-19 vaccine update, Governor's FY22 budget recommendations, legislation movement, state unemployment, Governor's COVID-19 briefings
- Local: SGCHD vaccine update, January 25 City Council summary
- January 25, 2021
- Fast Facts and Resources: Vaccine Resource Center for Employers, February 3 virtual event invite, public affairs timeline
- Federal: OSHA executive order, Biden's COVID-19 proposal, unemployment update
- State: COVID-19 vaccine update, 2021 Chamber advocacy efforts and state legislation update, FY21 funding released, aid for higher-education infrastructure, unemployment update, Governor's COVID-19 briefings
- Local: January 11 City Council summary
- January 19, 2021
- Includes specific information about local, state and federal COVID-19 vaccine updates, resources and guidance.
- January 5, 2021
- Includes specific local, state and federal COVID-19 funding options for businesses (SGF Business Assistance Grant Program, PPP, EITC, EIDL, SVOG).
2020 Email Updates
- December 18, 2020
- December 3, 2020
- November 18, 2020
- October 30, 2020
- October 13, 2020
- September 30, 2020
- September 18, 2020
- September 11, 2020
- September 3, 2020
- August 26, 2020
- August 19, 2020
- August 11, 2020
- August 3, 2020
- July 21, 2020
- July 10, 2020
- June 25, 2020
- COVID-19 Legislative Update: June 16, 2020
- COVID-19 Legislative Update: June 8, 2020
- COVID-19 Legislative Update: June 1, 2020
- COVID-19 Legislative Update: May 26, 2020
- COVID-19 Legislative Update: May 19, 2020
- COVID-19 Legislative Update: May 12, 2020
- COVID-19 Legislative Update: May 1, 2020
- COVID-19 Legislative Update: April 24, 2020
- COVID-19 Legislative Update: April 17, 2020
- COVID-19 Legislative Update: April 10, 2020