Public Policy

The Chamber's Public Policy Committee engages in the arena of government affairs at the local, state and national levels. The committee provides a voice for the Chamber's diverse membership from the broad spectrum of issues affecting our business community and the quality of life in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County.  

Adopted Positions

Agriculture & Forestry Issues
The Chamber believes that public policies that do not impede or restrict the important agricultural and forest economies of the Valley are vital to the continued economic success of Harrisonburg and Rockingham. Read more>>>

Economic Development
The Chamber believes that creation of jobs and wealth through expansions of existing companies and the attraction of new business activity has been the heart of Virginia’s long-term prosperity, as well as prosperity in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. Read more>>>

Education
The Chamber believes that a strong system of education  and the availability of a highly skilled workforce are vital to the Shenandoah Valley's future prosperity and quality of life. We recognize the critical responsibility of business and industry to ensure that schools and workforce development programs are of the highest quality. Read more>>>

Healthcare
The Chamber supports access to quality health care that is affordable for all Virginians. Read more>>>

Medicaid Funding
The Chamber is supportive of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County's medical community. According to the US Census Bureau, Harrisonburg has the highest percentage of uninsured residents in the Commonwealth, and Medicare and Medicaid represent a significant portion of RMH's admissions. Click here to read the Chamber's resolution in support of Medicaid funding>>>

Tax Policy
The Chamber supports a revenue system for the Commonwealth that is equitable and broad-based, fosters a favorable business climate and encourages economic development. Read more>>>  

Transportation
The Chamber regards transportation improvements as central to its ability to maintain a healthy business climate. Read more>>>

Unemployment Insurance Program
The Virginia Chamber of Commerce developed a position on Virginia’s potential use of ARRA funds to supplement and expand the Virginia unemployment insurance system.The Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce signed on this document, which respectfully requests that our congressional delegation amend the ARRA so that the restrictions on the $7 billion already “reserved” for distribution to the states are eliminated. Read more>>> 

Related Information

• Advocacy
• Public Policy