Advocacy is one of the most impactful ways business leaders can shape the future of their industries and communities. While the focus is often on federal policies, the decisions made at the state level often have a more direct and immediate impact on the business environment. From tax policies and workforce development initiatives to infrastructure investment and regulatory frameworks, state legislatures set the tone for how businesses operate and grow.
At the Tampa Bay Chamber, we believe it is critical for business leaders to engage in advocacy at the state level. Here’s why your voice matters and how it can make a difference.
Shaping Policies That Directly Impact Business
The State legislature often determines key policies that affect businesses’ day-to-day operations. These include decisions on taxes, employment laws, healthcare mandates, and industry-specific regulations. Engaging in advocacy ensures that lawmakers hear directly from those affected by their decisions. Business leaders bring real-world insights into how proposed legislation will impact jobs, economic growth, and community investment.
Supporting a Pro-Business Climate
By participating in the legislative process, business leaders can advocate for policies that attract new industries, support entrepreneurship, and enable existing businesses to thrive. For example, when business leaders collaborate with policymakers to advocate for infrastructure improvements, workforce training programs, or reduced regulatory burdens, they’re helping create an ecosystem where businesses of all sizes can succeed.
Building Relationships with Policymakers
Advocacy means more than influencing legislation; it’s about building relationships with policymakers and becoming a trusted voice in the decision-making process. State legislators often rely on input from business leaders to understand the specific needs of their districts. These relationships are particularly important during times of economic uncertainty or crisis, when policymakers must make decisions quickly and require reliable input.
Securing a Stronger Future
State-level advocacy isn’t just about today’s policies; it’s about shaping the future. Decisions made in state capitals influence the long-term competitiveness of industries, the availability of skilled workers, and the overall economic health of communities. For business leaders, engaging in advocacy is an investment in that future.
In anticipation of the start of the 2025 Florida Legislative Session, the Tampa Bay Chamber will be hosting our annual Legislative Kickoff event on February 25, 2025. This is a unique opportunity for you to have direct access to our region’s elected officials and where you can hear directly from them about their priorities heading into session.
We also encourage you to join us for Hillsborough Day at the State Capitol on March 26th where business community leaders will gather in Tallahassee to meet with legislators and advocate for policies that will drive business growth and innovation. The Chamber has coordinated round trip ground transportation for this exclusive opportunity to connect with key policymakers.
As the leading voice for our 1,400 members and the Tampa Bay business community, I hope you will join us to advocate for policies that will strengthen our community and shape our future.
Edwin Narain
Vice President of External & Legislative Affairs, AT&T
Chair, Tampa Bay Chamber
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February 25th
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Register Now
March 26th
All Day
Register Now