Legislative Newsletter - July 2019
CNBC Ranks Virginia #1 for Business
CNBC released its annual “America’s Top States for Business" rankings, with Virginia at the top of the list. Contributing factors include workforce, economy, infrastructure, cost of doing business, quality of life, education, technology & innovation, business friendliness, access to capital, and cost of living.

This recognition is a testament to the importance of promoting policies that strengthen our economic competitiveness. Read CNBC’s full analysis here . 
Local Impact of International Trade Policy
The Roanoke Regional Chamber hosted a roundtable discussion of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) on June 6 with United States Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. This was a valuable opportunity for the business community to offer feedback on the impact of such a significant international trade policy. We appreciate the business and government leaders who engaged in this important dialogue.

To learn more about the impact of the USMCA on Virginia industry, click here .
Continuing to Advocate for I-81 Improvements
Interstate 81 needs federal funding to complement state investment. The Chamber recently submitted an op-ed to The Roanoke Times with that exact message. As we celebrate the General Assembly’s leadership in funding I-81 improvements, we must continue to advocate for federal dollars to support the full recommendations of the I-81 Corridor Improvement Plan.
 
Senators Warner and Kaine co-signed letters urging additional funding for I-81 through an infrastructure bill and federal grants. Congressman Cline testified before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in support of funding for I-81
 
The Chamber has been an advocate for I-81 improvements because of the direct link between safe roadways and a strong business climate. Join us in our efforts by contacting your federal, state and local elected leaders to let them know this issue is a priority. 
Mark Your Calendar
State of the City: Join us for the State of the City address on August 29 from 7:30 – 9:00 am at Hotel Roanoke as Mayor Lea reviews the city's accomplishments over the past year and provides a look ahead at upcoming city initiatives. Click here to register

Politic’n & Pig Pick’n : The Business Leadership Fund will host its 17th Annual Politic'n and Pig Pick'n on September 25 from 5:30 – 7:30 pm at the Vinton War Memorial. This fundraiser brings together our region’s elected officials and members of the business community for an evening of food and conversation.  Click here to register.