Business Advocacy

 The priorities outlined in this legislative agenda reflect the input of our membership, gathered through comprehensive surveys and discussions with our various sector members. These items represent the key issues that the majority of our members agree are critical to advancing the success of our community and businesses during this legislative session. 

• Advocate for policies that promote small business growth and attract new industries.
• Support corporate income tax reform to make Oklahoma more competitive.
• Reduce business licensing barriers that hinder new business formation and expansion.
• Ensure economic development funding remains accessible to Shawnee businesses.

• Increase investment in workforce training and technical education to meet employer needs.
• Advocate for increased funding and support for public education.
• Support initiatives that encourage workforce participation among underrepresented populations.

• Support investment in critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and broadband expansion.
• Address workforce housing shortages to attract and retain talent in the region.
• Advocate for increased state and federal funding for public transportation to support workers.

• Work to reduce healthcare costs for small businesses and employees.
• Support policies that improve mental health services in schools and workplaces.
• Address childcare affordability and availability as a workforce retention issue.

• Reduce excessive tax burdens on small businesses and streamline regulations.
• Address tax policies that impact housing development and business expansion.
• Support measures that create a balanced approach to environmental regulations and energy reliability.

• Attainable Housing Development: Work with policymakers to reduce barriers to workforce housing projects.

• Childcare & Employee Support: Advocate for incentives to expand childcare availability.

• Homeless Shelter Regulations (SB 484): Address concerns about municipal utility waivers and support for domestic violence shelters.

• Public Safety & Community Well-Being: Address concerns about drug-related issues and public safety measures.

• Education Funding & Policy: Monitor changes in state education funding and policies impacting local schools.

• Environmental & Energy Policy: Ensure that environmental regulations do not unduly burden businesses while promoting sustainability.