Photo by Zac Nielson | Unsplash
The Salt Lake Chamber champions Utah’s economy and has expanded its focus to address a range of federal policy priorities. The Chamber has prioritized the following issues to promote a strong, vibrant and resilient economy.
Free enterprise
America’s economic system allows businesses to develop the best ideas. Companies can thrive, innovate and contribute to their communities by upholding market freedom. Corporate social responsibility demonstrates the positive impact businesses can have without federal overreach or mandates.
Civility
Incivility in politics erodes the democratic process. Recognizing the collaborative spirit ingrained in Utah’s culture, the Chamber promotes civility among elected officials. Encouraging respectful discourse and a collaborative approach, the Chamber aims to enable elected leaders to work together to address critical issues.
Federal regulations
Federal regulations shape the landscape of business. The Chamber recognizes the need for a streamlined and predictable permitting process to help remove barriers, facilitate timely project completion and enable businesses to respond more effectively to market demands.
Foreign relations
The strained relations between the U.S. and China have created economic uncertainties and military tensions. The federal government should find diplomatic solutions and maintain open lines of communication with China while expanding trade relations with other nations to develop supply chain resilience. The Chamber also encourages the U.S. government to hold the Chinese government accountable for human rights abuses and failures.
Immigration reform
Utah needs more skilled workers across various industries. To address this, the Chamber advocates for immigration reform aligning workforce skills with job market demands. Securing the border and increasing legal immigration pathways will expand our diverse and skilled workforce, allowing Utah and the entire nation to enhance economic competitiveness and growth.
Fiscal stability
Utah’s government and residents value fiscal restraint and responsibility. We are concerned with the return of federal financial bailouts. Utah’s example should cause federal policymakers and lawmakers to prioritize budgeting items, evaluate program efficiency, balance the books and reduce tax burdens on Americans.
Grid resiliency
As society becomes increasingly dependent on electricity, disruptions to the electric grid pose significant risks to public health, safety and economic stability. The Chamber emphasizes the need for Congress to invest in grid resiliency measures to safeguard against extreme weather events and cyberattacks. By protecting the electrical grid, the Chamber aims to ensure the continued functioning of critical infrastructure and minimize disruptions to daily life.
Expanded DCA flight service
Enhanced air connectivity is vital to fostering economic growth and promoting business opportunities. Expanding flight options between SLC and DC can enable Utah-based businesses to compete more effectively nationally and globally, driving productivity and growth by providing increased scheduling flexibility and reducing delays.
The Salt Lake Chamber’s federal policy priorities reflect a strategic vision for Utah’s strong and resilient economy. Through collaboration, sensible regulation and strategic investments, Utah can position itself as a leading state and exemplar in a rapidly evolving global economy.