From Peoria to Springfield: The Chamber’s Advocacy Efforts

At the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, we know that advocacy is a vital part of ensuring a thriving business community. Businesses, from small startups to major employers, are impacted by policies and regulations that shape our economy. Business advocacy has been central to the Chamber's mission since we were founded nearly 115 years ago and continues to be central to our mission today. We are here to be the voice for business, ensuring that our members’ concerns are heard and that policies support a competitive, business-friendly environment in Greater Peoria.

Why Advocacy Matters to Your Business

Illinois has remained among the top five states in the nation for the number of proposed bills each year. Last year's general assembly saw nearly 10,000 pieces of proposed legislation, and the general assembly before that saw nearly 13,000. Business owners and leaders juggle countless responsibilities every day, and staying on top of this volume of ever-changing policies and legislation is not only overwhelming, but for most, it just isn't possible. Yet, the decisions being made at the local, state, and federal levels can have direct consequences on operations, workforce regulations, taxation, and economic growth.

Advocacy bridges the gap between business and government, ensuring that policies are not just made for businesses, but with businesses. When we speak collectively, we create meaningful change, drive economic development, and maintain a strong regional business climate. The Chamber works diligently to build relationships with decision-makers and champion the interests of our members, advocating for policies that promote growth and reduce barriers to success.

How You Can Get Involved

While the Chamber leads advocacy efforts, our impact is even greater when our business community is engaged. There are several ways for you to take an active role in shaping the policies that impact your business:

• Join Our Government Affairs Committee 
  Our Government Affairs Committee plays a critical role in guiding the Chamber’s advocacy work. By joining, you can be part of discussions that shape our policy priorities and ensure that the business voice is represented in legislative matters.

• Attend Key Advocacy Events
  Connecting directly with legislators is one of the most effective ways to ensure business interests are heard. Events like our recent State Legislative Luncheon provide an opportunity to engage with policymakers, ask questions, and hear firsthand about legislative priorities. This year’s event brought together 200 regional leaders for a fireside chat-style conversation with our legislators, reinforcing the importance of direct dialogue between the business community and policymakers.

• Subscribe to Chamber Text Alerts
  Advocacy often requires timely action. By subscribing to our text alerts, you’ll receive real-time updates when the Chamber is mobilizing members to take action on key legislative issues. Whether it’s contacting lawmakers, signing petitions, or providing feedback, these alerts help you make your voice heard when it matters most. Text NotifyPACC Advocacy to (218) 229-8880 to subscribe. 

• Stay Informed with Our Public Policy Newsletter
  Policy changes can happen quickly, and staying informed is key to being an effective advocate. Our public policy newsletter keeps you updated on policy activity and headlines at the local, state, and federal levels, ensuring that you have the information you need. Visit the Chamber Website or Member Information Center to opt into the Public Policy Newsletter. 

• Submit an Advocacy Request
  We understand that businesses face unique challenges, and sometimes, you need direct support in navigating policy issues. Through our Advocacy Request Form, available on the Chamber website, you can alert us to specific challenges your business or industry is facing. Whether it’s regulatory hurdles, permitting issues, workforce development concerns, or infrastructure needs, we are here to advocate on your behalf.

Our Recent Trip to Springfield: Advocacy in Action

Last week, our Chamber leadership took a hands-on approach to advocacy with a trip to Springfield. Myself, VP of Operations Alex Sierra, and our Government Affairs Committee Chair, Vaibhav Shah, met with our six central legislators for the Peoria region in their offices at the Capitol. During these meetings, we discussed the Chamber’s six key policy priority areas:

• Tax & Regulatory Issues

• Employment Regulation

• Workforce Development & Education

• Transportation & Infrastructure

• Equitable Economic Development

• Downtown & Central Business District Development

In addition to these critical discussions, our delegation attended multiple committee meetings, observed the House in session from the gallery, and participated in the Illinois Chamber Lobby Day. This event provided valuable insights into key legislation being monitored by the state chamber, as well as opportunities to network with legislators, fellow chamber executives, and lobbyists.

During this visit, the Peoria Area Chamber's Community Leadership School was also in Springfield, providing another unique opportunity for engagement. I joined CLS participants to hear directly from area legislators, meet with state leadership, and discuss the importance of advocacy. This experience reinforced the Chamber’s commitment to developing informed and engaged business leaders who understand how policy decisions impact our region.

The Broader Impact of Chamber Advocacy

Advocacy is more than just meetings and policy discussions—it’s about driving real change. When the Chamber advocates for infrastructure improvements, it benefits businesses by improving access to customers and suppliers. When we champion workforce development, we are helping to create a pipeline of skilled employees for local businesses. By supporting equitable economic development, we ensure that opportunities are available to all, fostering a more inclusive and prosperous region.

Our efforts extend beyond Peoria. We collaborate with the Illinois Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to address issues at the state and federal levels. Whether it’s advocating for pro-business tax policies, fighting burdensome regulations, or pushing for policies that support innovation and entrepreneurship, we are committed to making a lasting impact.

What’s Next for Advocacy at the Chamber?

As we look ahead, the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce remains steadfast in its commitment to advocacy. We will continue to provide forums for dialogue, engage with policymakers, and mobilize our members to take action when needed. Upcoming initiatives include:

• Expanding Our Legislative Engagement Efforts
  We plan to increase direct engagement opportunities between business leaders and elected officials to ensure that our region’s needs remain a priority. Watch for events like a roundtables with local city and village-level leadership this fall. 

• Enhancing Member Involvement in Advocacy
  Through training sessions, panel discussions, and expanded digital engagement, we aim to equip our members with the tools they need to be effective advocates.

• Strengthening Our Policy Research and Analysis 
  By deepening our research into key policy areas, we can provide even stronger advocacy on behalf of our members. We will be leveraging your investments for deeper research and activities that prepare business-people to step into elected positions. 

A Stronger Business Community Through Advocacy

Advocacy is not just about responding to challenges—it’s about shaping the future of our region. The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to working alongside our business community to create an environment where businesses can thrive. Your voice is powerful, and together, we can influence policies that foster growth, innovation, and prosperity.

By Jessica Linder Gallo, IOM, ACE

President/CEO of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce