Join us for a special edition of Eggs & Issues, our annual discussion with Lakes Area legislators focused on business, jobs and the economy. As the legislative session heats up, this is a unique opportunity to meet your newly elected representatives, ask questions and share your opinions on issues that impact your business. Led by our Government Affairs Committee, the Brainerd Lakes Chamber joined forces with more than 50 statewide chambers to adopt these 2023 legislative priorities:

Oppose the mandated paid leave program.
Our #1 priority is opposing a program that taxes businesses to provide 12 weeks of paid sick time and 12 weeks of paid family leave to every employee. This would place a tremendous burden on small businesses and incentivize fraudulent claims.

Achieve business tax relief.
We can do better. With a $17.6 billion surplus, Minnesota can join 25 other states in enacting permanent tax reform. Currently, we are ranked 6th highest in individual income tax rate and 2nd highest in corporate income tax rate. 

Streamline permitting.
We support sensible regulations that take care of our environment while streamlining the review and permitting process. Rather than take their business to other states, this will allow companies to eliminate uncertainty and make timely decisions. 

Create a 21st century workforce.
We support streamlining education programs for high-demand jobs and inventing effective solutions to the housing shortage. 

Support area bonding projects.
We believe in the economic impact of projects like the National Loon Center and WonderTrek Children’s Museum, which are professionally managed and shovel-ready.