Government Advocacy

The Chamber is a catalyst for change by bringing both public and business leaders together to do collectively what could not be done individually.  The Chamber supports its member organizations by performing a critical function that many companies cannot afford to do:  lobbying for business interests.  Since businesses don’t vote, their main recourse is where policy is made at the local, state, and federal levels.  Someone – some group – must look our for the business community’s interests.  The Chamber considers this to be one of its most vital roles.  

Locally, the Chamber lobbies the Arlington County Board.  But Virginia is a “Dillon Rule” state whereby local jurisdictions have little authority other than that granted specifically by the state legislature.  So much lobbying is also done in Richmond during the annual General Assembly sessions.  Each year there are major initiatives where the result of General Assembly action is of significant consequence to the business community.  Arlington Chamber members can rest assured that they will be represented on the issues that affect them. 

Learn more about the role of the Government Affairs & Economic Development Committee. Each year the Chamber creates its Public Policy Positions paper.