Chairman's Letter

In 2008, the State Chamber proved once again why it has been a leader of Nebraska’s business community for nearly a century. In last year’s legislative session, state lawmakers and Governor Heineman passed legislation to create new incentives for businesses that provide high-paying jobs in Nebraska – a measure strongly supported by your State Chamber. Also passed into law was legislation that adjusted the state’s corporate tax for the first time in 26 years, providing Nebraska businesses, especially small businesses, much needed tax relief.

The State Chamber was also effective in helping stop legislation that would have been costly to the state’s business community. Key bills that were opposed by the State Chamber included proposals to expand workers’ compensation benefits for “mental injuries,” and legislation that would have forced non-union members to pay union fees.
The State Chamber’s efforts continue to improve Nebraska’s positive business climate. In 2008, FORBES magazine ranked Nebraska as one of its top ten states for business. The editors at FORBES concluded that Nebraska offers a better quality of life, better regulatory environment, and lower business costs than most states.

You are a member of an organization that has provided a consolidated and powerful voice on issues that impact business – not only in Nebraska, but also in matters that can influence Nebraska companies on a global basis. We are in a global economy that moves at a lightening-fast pace with changing technology and ever-improving communication. Nebraska businesses cannot afford to be bogged down with intrusive regulation and taxation. The State Chamber historically stands strong against such burdens, positioning the organization as the only statewide group that truly represents the business point of view. Past accomplishments in the Legislature and at the ballot boxes have shown that your State Chamber is a major force in Nebraska to ensure that the business perspective is always considered by our policymakers.

In 2009, 37 of Nebraska’s 49 state senators possess two years or less experience in the Legislature. This loss of institutional knowledge at the State Capitol means more work for those who want a better business climate. You can count on the State Chamber representing you and your employees on key issues affecting taxes, regulations, economic development, and labor relations.

In addition, the State Chamber will continue to be at the forefront of building leaders for the future. The State Chamber’s Leadership Nebraska program – now in its third year – helps train and develop Nebraska residents to address the current and future challenges facing our state, bringing their skills and talents to state leadership positions.

We are proud of the State Chamber’s diverse membership, which is reflective of the diversity of Nebraska’s business community. You will find among our members all sizes and types of businesses from ranches and restaurants, to local manufacturers and Fortune 500 companies. There are more than 400 different categories of businesses in more than 150 communities across Nebraska. The common factor that brings all these members together into the State Chamber is a steadfast interest in improving Nebraska’s business environment.

Thank you for your membership to the State Chamber and your representation of Nebraska’s business community. Your leadership, locally and statewide, is appreciated and needed more than ever.