Tampa Bay Chamber leadership, staff, and volunteers pictured with members of the Florida House of Representatives (left to right): Susan Valdés (District 64), Karen Gonzalez-Pittman (District 65), Berny Jacques (District 59), Dianne Hart (District 63), Lindsey Cross (District 60), and Fentrice Driskell (District 67)
The Tampa Bay Chamber rang in the new year on January 6th with its 2026 Legislative Kickoff, welcoming members eager for not only a delicious breakfast, but meaningful conversation and connection.
As one of the Chamber’s most anticipated events of the year, the morning’s sold-out event brought together business leaders and legislators who shared their priorities for the 2026 Florida legislative session, set to begin on January 13th. This event provided an exclusive opportunity for members to connect directly with the Tampa Bay legislative delegation, including Representatives from Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas Counties.
Pictured left to right: Rob Ledford (Board of Directors Chair), Melanie Brown, AdventHealth & Jeff Chernoff, IAT Inc. (Policy Council Co-Chairs)
During the program, The Tampa Bay Chamber unveiled its 2026 Legislative Agenda, which advances priorities impacting the business community across seven guiding principles: business and economic development, disaster resiliency, healthcare, military and defense, transportation, workforce development and education, and workforce housing. Legislators then shared their priorities and discussed key issues affecting the business community, while members had the opportunity to review and reference the Chamber’s agenda.
Pictured left to right: Chris Claytor (The Beck Group) and Olivier Millour (Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay)
Members also shared why this event continues to be a must-attend each year. This event “helps guide our businesses, support our people, and prepare our industry for the year ahead,” said Chris Claytor, Integrated Operations Manager at The Beck Group.
Olivier Millour, Vice President of Community & Government Affairs at Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay, echoed that sentiment, noting that “It’s exciting to start the year meeting with local legislators and business leaders to understand what’s top priority. As a young professional, hearing about affordability, housing, and education reform is especially important.”
Tampa Chamber Members enjoying coffee & conversation after the event.
The morning concluded with continued networking and conversations, reinforcing the Chamber’s role as a catalyst for collaboration between the business community and elected officials.
To learn more about the Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Agenda and Policy & Advocacy work, click here.
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Continue the Conversation in Tallahassee during our Catalyst Trip!
If you enjoyed the Legislative Kickoff event, the conversation doesn’t stop here! On January 28, 2026, the Tampa Bay Chamber will host its Catalyst Trip to Tallahassee for Hillsborough Day at the State Capitol. This exclusive opportunity allows members to engage directly with key policymakers, advocate for pro-business priorities, and connect with influential leaders from across the region.