On December 2nd, we hosted over 700 business leaders in Williamsburg for the 2016 Virginia Economic Summit. At the Summit, we launched Blueprint Virginia 2025, an update to our long-term economic development plan. Over the next year, we will once again convene Virginia’s regional leaders and industry experts to analyze state and regional economies and identify specific economic drivers. You can take part by visiting www.vachamber.com/blueprint-virginia and participating in our survey.

The 2017 General Assembly Session begins on January 11, 2017. More than 200 bills have already been introduced and our government affairs team is reviewing legislation every day. On Friday, Governor McAuliffe presented his budget proposals to the General Assembly’s money committees, and we will continue to monitor developments with the budget as well. Look soon for the Chamber’s “Bills We’re Watching,” which provides short, concise summaries of bills and budget items we are tracking along with the Chamber’s “thumbs-up” or “thumbs-down” position. “Bills We’re Watching” will be live on our website after the new year.

We also hope you’ll mark your calendars for a couple of events in January. On January 6th, we’ll co-host the Financial Forecast with the Virginia Bankers Association to discuss the economic future of our Commonwealth. On January 25th, we’ll hold our annual Chamber Day at the Capitol and Old Dominion Assembly Legislative Reception. At Chamber Day, join Chambers of Commerce and business leaders to hear from Virginia’s top elected officials on the 2017 General Assembly session. Then, join us that evening for our annual legislative reception. More details on all of these events can be found below!

On behalf of all of our staff, best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season and prosperous new year!