Capitol Connection: April 29, 2025
Federal Affairs
Share Your Voice: Help Shape Trade & Tariff Policy
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce wants to hear how federal tariff policies are affecting your business. Whether you're directly involved in international trade or impacted through your supply chain, your input is essential.
Your feedback will guide our advocacy efforts and ensure that the concerns of Greater Lansing’s business community are heard by policymakers. Take a few minutes to complete our Trade & Tariff Policy Impact Survey and help us make your voice count.
State Affairs
LRCC & U.S. Chamber Host Congressman Tom Barrett for Tax Reform Roundtable
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC), in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Michigan Chamber of Commerce, hosted Congressman Tom Barrett for a tax policy roundtable with regional business leaders. The discussion centered around the future of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and the need for continued certainty and pro-growth reforms.
Special thanks to Neogen for hosting this important conversation on tax policy.
LRCC Hosts Chamber Townhall with State Senator Sarah Anthony
The Lansing Regional Chamber held an engaging Chamber Townhall event, featuring State Senator Sarah Anthony.
During the session, Senator Anthony shared insights into her legislative priorities, highlighting issues affecting our community. She elaborated on her current legislative initiatives and state government. Following her presentation, attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with the senator, asking insightful questions.
This important event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of McKinney & Associates and Comcast Business.
LRCC Policy Forum Recap: Speaker of the House Matt Hall
Our latest Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) Policy Forum featured Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall in a dynamic fireside chat moderated by Andrea Bitely, President of Bitely Communications. The conversation provided valuable insight into state budget priorities, infrastructure investments, road funding strategies, and other key legislative efforts shaping Michigan’s future.
State Funding and the Lansing Region
A notable point of discussion centered on state funding and the role of the Lansing region. Speaker Hall’s comments highlighted the importance of evaluating funding priorities across Michigan. As a region, Greater Lansing has worked intentionally and collaboratively for years to identify real, pressing needs — from infrastructure and housing to economic development and quality-of-life improvements. These aren’t just commitments on paper — we’re now seeing many of these projects move forward, take shape, and fuel the next chapter of growth and opportunity for Greater Lansing. Our community is similar to others across Michigan — we matter just as much as any other region. We remain committed to advocating for our fair share in the state budget process and ensuring that local voices continue to be part of statewide investment decisions.
Return-to-Office Consistency
Speaker Hall also raised concerns about the inconsistency in remote work policies across state departments. The LRCC continues to advocate for a uniform, equitable return-to-office policy across all state agencies to support downtown Lansing and ensure fairness. Since 2021, the LRCC has urged the Governor and administration to develop a consistent policy. Currently, nearly 20 state departments operate under different remote work arrangements, creating confusion and inequities.
Return-to-office Informational Links
Regional and Local Affairs
May 6 Special Election - What's On Your Ballot?
This year’s special election includes several important school and public safety proposals across mid-Michigan. These decisions impact our schools, neighborhoods, and overall economic competitiveness.
Election day is Tuesday, May 6. You can find your ballot here. Below you will find what is currently on the ballot in your area.
Clinton County
Eaton County
- Countywide Public Safety Millage Proposition
- Springport Public Schools Bond Proposal
- Lakewood Public Schools Bond Proposal
Ingham County
Key Policy & Advocacy Efforts
| The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce continues to create opportunities for members to connect with elected leaders and engage on the policy issues that matter most to our region. |
First Friday Public Affiars Call Update (Virtual)
Join us every First Friday of the month for an insightful briefing on policy and political developments impacting the business community. Hosted by LRCC Public Affairs Senior Vice President, Steve Japinga, these monthly calls are designed to keep our members informed and engaged
Friday, May 2 | 11 to 11:30 a.m. | Zoom
LRCC Chamber Townhall Series
Our Townhall Series offers members direct access to elected officials and candidates in a small group setting to discuss issues shaping our state and local economy.
LRCC Chamber Townhall with Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum
Thursday, May 15 | 11:30 – 12:30 p.m. | Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
LRCC Chamber Townhall with MI Secretary of State & Gubernatorial Candidate Jocelyn Benson (D)
Wednesday, June 4 | 11:30 – 12:30 p.m. | Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
