We set our annual agenda based on member input. Then we put that agenda to work, involving nearly 80 local and regional chambers and more than 200 pro-business organizations in Kansas Chamber–led coalitions.
We communicate our efforts through more than 42,000 pieces of mail, which generates postcards back to legislators, breaking news e-mails and legislative summaries, Kansas Business Minute audio packages and Twitter updates to keep our members informed and engaged during the legislative session. We run targeted radio ads on stations across Kansas, generated thousands of phone calls to select legislators and make web advertising impressions on YAHOO! websites in targeted counties and the Topeka Capital-Journal. We are at the Statehouse, influencing and advocating for our members, so they could focus on running their businesses. Our four person legislative team has a constant presence and testifies several times per week throughout every legislative session.
Read all about our lobbying efforts in the Statehouse in Capitol Gains, a downloadable document with much more detail on your Chamber’s 2011 legislative victories:
Taxes – No Increases in Business Taxes in 2011
Not only did the Legislature not increase your tax burden, but they improved it by passing the Chamber’s recommended legislation.
Business Development – Enhanced Tools to Grow Kansas Jobs
In-state expansion caps were increased. Tax incentives were created to attract new business from outside.
Aggressive job retention measures were introduced. The Investments in Major Projects and Comprehensive Training (IMPACT) Program was abolished in favor of up-front cash incentives.
Human Resource Issues –Workers’ Comp Reform and Unemployment Insurance
With the Chamber’s support and influence, the legislature passed its first significant workers’ comp reform legislation since 1993. Reversed decades of case law, established new standards for work disability, instituted employer credit for preexisting conditions, and extended rate caps through 2014.
Get the full details on your Chamber’s legislative accomplishments. Download the free Capitol Gains 2011 report.
2012 Capitol Gains
2011 Capitol Gains
2010 Capitol Gains
2009 Capitol Gains