A strong, business-friendly environment is essential for economic growth and prosperity.
The Chamber is the unified voice of our business community, advocating at the local, state, and federal levels. We challenge restrictive regulations, champion pro-business policies, and lead efforts that protect and strengthen our region’s economy and future. By convening public officials and business leaders and inspiring civic engagement, we ensure that the interests of our community are heard, understood, advanced and defended.
As one of the largest chambers of commerce in Minnesota and North Dakota, representing over 1,600 member businesses and more than 100,000 employees, we understand the power and importance of public policy and advocacy. With increased member engagement and investment, we continue to expand our influence on a local, state and federal level.
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Public Policy News
Why Civics Education is Critical for the Next Generation
Inspiring middle school students to deepen their understanding of civics education and engage actively in their communities.
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Top Energy Summit Takeaways
Bringing together industry leaders to discuss the rapidly evolving energy landscape, the future of energy and key issues.
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2024 election: Key results in Clay County, Minnesota
The 2024 election cycle has concluded, and we have a recap of the Minnesota results. At The Chamber, we help keep you informed about the important changes in government and how they impact businesses and our community.
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2024 election: Key results in Cass County, North Dakota
Now that the 2024 election is over, our team at The Chamber is sharing the important results from North Dakota. We want to keep you informed about what’s happening in politics and how it affects business and our community.
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VoteFMWF is The Chamber's non-partisan website for residents and community members to learn about candidates, ballot measures, important events, voting information and more.
VoteFMWF
Minnesota Legislative Review
During the 2024 Minnesota Legislative Session, The Chamber actively opposed restrictive regulations and mandates, while championing policies that protect and strengthen our region. This review outlines the outcomes of The Chamber's top priorities, including the voting records of local legislators on these critical issues.
Explore the Public Policy Guide for an overview of Chamber policy stances and priorities, as well as key information regarding elected officials.
Public Policy Guide
Taking a stance
The process behind our policy stances and efforts
Public Policy Committee
The committee drafts stances and legislative priorities, acting on individual bills or policies as they become relevant. Recommendations that come out of this committee are submitted to the Board of Directors for consideration, where they then have the potential to become official Chamber stances.
The Public Policy Committee is the advocacy arm of The Chamber and is comprised of business and community leaders from across the region. This critical group is dedicated to advancing sound policies that foster a stable environment for businesses and the greater community to thrive.
Board of Directors
Upon the Public Policy Committee making a recommendation for a policy stance, the Board reviews and considers whether or not to adopt it as an official Chamber position. Given the fast-paced nature of public policy, the Board may directly address urgent issues on its own without a formal recommendation from the Public Policy Committee.
The Board of Directors is the official policy-making and governing body for The Chamber and is comprised of prominent and diverse leaders from the business community.
The Chamber's Official Stance
After the Board of Directors has voted on an official stance, The Chamber takes action and begins engaging with public officials to represent business interests, rais awareness and build impactful coalitions. The Chamber also empowers local businesses by providing essential resources such as policy briefs, discussion points, supporting materials, legislative contacts and timely bill updates.