The Columbia Chamber of Commerce released its priorities for the upcoming legislative session that will make Columbia an unparalleled environment for business in the state. The positions of the Chamber will keep the importance of Columbia/Boone County business issues in the forefront with lawmakers and continue to improve the business climate in the city and region.

“The reputation of Columbia’s business community is positively increasing each session,” Columbia Chamber of Commerce President Matt McCormick said. “Lawmakers take note of our priorities and positions on issues because they know there is an opportunity to make Columbia and Missouri more competitive and grow the economy.”

For the 2019 legislative session, the Chamber is focusing on education funding and facilities, a plan for Interstate 70, Columbia Regional Airport and a sales and use tax.

The Chamber’s 2019 legislative priorities are:

1. Support stabilizing the funding for the University of Missouri to help ensure the University can carry out its Mission.
2. Support a sustainable plan for a comprehensive transportation system to better support Missouri’s economic growth, with a focus on advocating for rebuilding Interstate 70.
3. Support the construction of the Translational Precision Medicine Complex at the University of Missouri that will be the new home for research, clinical talent and industry partnerships required to bring this type of cutting-edge care to Missourians.
4. Support regional efforts to complete the Columbia Regional Airport Terminal Project.
5. Support legislation that implements the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Agreement. This legislation would help level the playing field between local retailers and their out-of-state competitors when it comes to use or sales taxes on internet and catalogue purchases made by consumers.
6. Advocate to fully fund pre-K through 12 public education to ensure Missouri’s educational system is competitive and capable of effectively preparing tomorrow’s workforce.

“Our priorities will increase the standard for business in Columbia,” McCormick said. “By working to achieve our priorities, we will enhance where we live, learn, work and play.”

The priorities and positions were carefully and strategically chosen based on the feedback from the business community, education entities, legislative members and community leaders. The Chamber’s priorities and positions focus on making Columbia more competitive and safer within the region, state and country.

You can read, view or download the 2019 agenda, as well as watch the 2019 Legislative Reception where the Chamber revealed the priorities.

The Columbia Chamber of Commerce was established in 1905 and is a voluntary, member-supported organization of business, industrial and professional people who are dedicated to developing, promoting and maintaining a sound and healthy economic climate for Columbia. The Columbia Chamber of Commerce is recognized as a 5-Star Accredited Chamber by the United States Chamber of Commerce which places it as one of the top operating chambers of commerce in the country.