March 3, 2026

Message from Our CEO

Our cities, our region, our state.

Since the close of the 2025 regular legislative session, it has been refreshing to hear so much positive news regarding economic development and all the issues that impact business opportunities. Last week, over 100 Chamber members from around our parish came to hear from the mayors of our three largest cities. Tomorrow, another 100 members will hear directly from Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois about the amazing business development happening across our state.

Also last week, over 1,400 people from the Greater New Orleans region gathered for the GNO, Inc. annual meeting. So much good news all around! You can watch the video recording of the event here; view the PowerPoint presentation here; or read the Fox 8 news story here.

As New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno stated, there is a whole new spirit of collaboration in the region. Thanks to the business and elected leaders working together on everything from education to healthcare to insurance reform—our region and our state truly are greater!

Mayors Share Updates at State of the Cities Breakfast

Business and community leaders gathered at Tchefuncte Country Club last week for our State of the Cities Breakfast, featuring Covington Mayor Mark Johnson, Mandeville Mayor Clay Madden and Slidell Mayor Randy Fandal. Each mayor provided updates on growth, economic development and key initiatives shaping their municipalities, followed by an engaging Q&A with attendees. Events like this strengthen collaboration across St. Tammany Parish. Thank you to our presenting sponsor Kelly McHugh & Associates and media sponsor The St. Tammany Farmer for their support.

Pictured left (l-r) are Mayor Mark Johnson, Mayor Clay Madden and Mayor Randy Fandal. Pictured right (l-r) are Lacey Osborne, Andy Canulette with The St. Tammany Farmer, Kelly McHugh with Kelly McHugh & Associates, Madden, Johnson, Fandal and Lauren Navarre with Arena Collective..

Proposed Bill Would Raise Louisiana Minimum Wage

A new bill prefiled for the 2026 Louisiana Legislative Session would increase the state minimum wage every two years, starting at $10 in 2027 and reaching $14 by 2031, with enforcement measures for violations. Read more.

Louisiana Lawmakers Move to Regulate AI

Ahead of the 2026 legislative session, Louisiana lawmakers have filed at least 18 bills aimed at regulating AI in areas including child safety, criminal conduct, health care, consumer protections and the workplace. Proposed measures include stricter penalties, disclosures and enforcement mechanisms. Read more.

Louisiana Lawmakers Consider Governor Term Limits

Louisiana lawmakers are reviewing House Bill 225, which would amend the state Constitution to set a lifetime two-term limit for governors. If approved, voters would decide on the measure in the November 3 election ballot. Read more.

LaPolitics Speaks with PAR President Steven Procopio

In a recent LaPolitics Q&A, Steven Procopio, president of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, discussed Governor Landry’s first-term accomplishments, state revenue challenges and voter confusion over the new party primary system, highlighting the need for public education. Read more.

Louisiana Insurance Rates Show Improvement in 2025

New data from the Louisiana Department of Insurance shows 2025 brought a modest decline in overall insurance rates after years of growth. Auto premiums dropped significantly, while homeowners rates rose more slowly, signaling early signs of market stabilization. Read more.

Featured Event: Register here

Tuesday, March 10

11:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Ribbon Cutting for

Covington Auto Title & Notary

2640 N. Hwy. 190,

Covington

Wednesday, March 11

11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Louisiana State Capitol Building Rotunda

900 North Third St.,

Baton Rouge

Thursday, March 12

11:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Ribbon Cutting for

Love's Travel Stops

66595 Wadsworth Pkwy.,

Mandeville

Tuesday, March 17

Networking 11:30 AM

Program 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM

Zea's Rotisserie & Bar

110 Lake Dr.,

Covington

Thursday, March 19

Registration: 10:30 AM

Shotgun Start: 11:30 AM

Money Hill Country Club

100 Country Club Dr.,

Abita Springs

Tuesday, March 24

Networking 11:30 AM

Program 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM

Chamber's Covington Office

610 Hollycrest Blvd.,

Covington

Save These Dates

Thurs., March 26, 2026—Business After Hours—STARC's Art Night by In-Telecom

Your Insight as a Business Owner Matters

Southeastern Louisiana University invites Northshore business owners to share their experiences with AI and automation in a brief 3-4 minute survey. Your responses are anonymous and will help the university identify ways to better support local organizations. Take the survey here.

At our recent Chamber Board meeting, directors reviewed financials and continued planning for a strong year ahead. In addition to regular business, the Board revisited the 2026 Program of Work, confirming key priorities and agreeing on the initiatives that will guide our advocacy, programming and member engagement.

A Blueprint for Affordability Solutions

Neil Bradley of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce outlines a clear path to ease the cost of living. The most effective approach is to increase supply and reduce unnecessary costs in key areas like food, housing, healthcare, energy and insurance. By cutting red tape, lowering tariffs and reforming legal and regulatory barriers, policymakers can help prices come down, support competitive markets and provide real, lasting relief for families, workers and businesses across the country. Read more.

Connect in Our Members-Only Facebook Group

Your Chamber. Your Benefits

Chamber members can join our private Facebook group to network, share business news, ask questions and offer resources. With more than 500 members, it’s an easy way to stay connected and engaged with fellow Chamber members between in-person events. Join today!