Through our public policy initiative, ChamberSTL, we advocate for pro-growth public policy outcomes to achieve inclusive prosperity across the bi-state area. Our goal is to cultivate major coalitions within our community to secure an agenda for metro growth. We do this with a people-first, innovation-driven plan for equitable, abundant job creation, and economic growth. We engage in policy discussions across a spectrum of topics that have a direct impact on our region, its competitiveness, business climate, and livability.
2022 Legislative Victories — Priority Legislation
Missouri
Missouri Technology Corporation
This high priority for GSL led to the successful increase in funding for MTC, an investment in our state’s entrepreneurs, creating more jobs and attracting more talent to Missouri.
Research and Development Tax Credit
The Research and Development Tax Credit is a tool businesses and entrepreneurs can use to boost economic development and make the innovation community a central part of the state’s business ecosystem.
Medicaid Expansion
Greater St. Louis, Inc. led the statewide coalition of chambers of commerce and economic development groups that joined the legal effort to expand Medicaid – and won.
Broadband Expansion
Greater St. Louis, Inc. worked with the Governor, his administration, and the General Assembly on the passage of broadband expansion funding and will continue to ensure that the St. Louis metro is represented in state discussions to solve the digital divide.
Public Transit
Greater St. Louis, Inc. advocated for investment in Missouri’s public transit. Approved funding makes quality jobs, health care, education, and other services more accessible to all of Missouri’s citizens.
Illinois
Streamlining Transportation Infrastructure
Greater St. Louis, Inc. supported legislation that streamlines construction of transportation infrastructure projects in Illinois. The legislation was passed by both Houses.
Increasing Investment in Entrepreneurs
We successfully helped secure $312 million in federal State Small Business Credit Initiative funds that will go to investing in entrepreneurs through the Advantage Illinois program.
Supporting Military Families at Scott Air Force Base
Thanks in part to our advocacy, Illinois was named as one of ten states in the country to be assessed as “Most Supportive” of military members and their families by the Department of the Air Force with respect to license portability.
Advocacy/Ways to Engage
Policy Advisory Board
Members of this group offer strategic and tactical counsel to help advocate for and execute Greater St. Louis, Inc.’s pro-growth, pro-business public policy agenda.
Government Relations Council
The Council assists in the development of Greater St. Louis, Inc.’s annual legislative agenda and advocacy strategy. Its efforts draw on the experience of government relations professionals to support Greater St. Louis, Inc. staff in issue advocacy and outreach to elected officials.
Missouri and Illinois Public Affairs Networks
Meeting regularly throughout the year, attendees gain information and insights from influential business, civic and political leaders on issues at the forefront of legislative debate. Public Affairs Network members serves as the “grassroots” for ChamberSTL’s advocacy efforts and participate in special public policy events.
Past Speakers Include
- U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO)
- U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL)
- U.S Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)
- Congressman Rodney Davis (IL-13)
- Congresswoman Ann Wagner (MO-02)
- Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03)
- St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones
Public Policy Speaker Series
Periodically throughout the year, we will invite relevant business, civic or political leaders to speak on topics that are at the forefront of national, state, or regional debate.
Greater St. Louis, Inc. Day at the Missouri Capitol
We organize a large delegation of civic and business leaders to go to Jefferson City to advocate for regional prosperity and Greater St. Louis, Inc.’s Policy Priorities. The 2022 Missouri Day at the Capitol included meetings with key legislative leaders and policymakers.
Greater St. Louis, Inc. Day at the Illinois Capitol
We take a large delegation of civic and business leaders to Springfield to advocate for regional prosperity and Greater St. Louis, Inc.’s Policy Priorities. Our most recent Virtual Lobby Day included meetings with top legislators, policymakers and members of the executive branch.
Arch to the Hill D.C. Fly-In
A more intimate group of top business and civic leaders participate in our most important public policy event in Washington, D.C., where we meet with the region’s 11-member federal delegation and various agencies. The group advocates for regional prosperity and Greater St. Louis, Inc.’s Policy Priorities.