More than 600 top business and civic leaders joined the Rhode Island General Assembly leadership and dozens of state legislators to discuss a wide range of topics at our annual Legislative Luncheon held March 12 at the Rhode Island Convention Center. 
 
The conversation focused on several critical issues, including: The budget, the Washington Bridge, the future of truck tolls, taxes, education, healthcare, economic development, the I-195 land and how national issues are impacting Rhode Island. 

Thank you to Speaker Joe Shekarchi, House Majority Leader Christopher Blazejewski, Senate Majority Leader Valarie Lawson, Senate Minority Leader Jessica de la Cruz and House Finance Committee Chair Louis DiPalma for speaking with our members about these important issues which will have a significant impact on Rhode Island businesses and communities in the coming year.  

Much appreciation also to our Presenting Sponsor Rhode Island Energy and to our Co-presenting sponsor the I-195 District for their support and the support of all our sponsors who make the Chamber’s work possible. 

View more from the event here.




Photo credit: Josh Edenbaum Photography

Couldn’t attend? Learn what our legislative leaders had to say by reading the below coverage:

Providence Business News: 
Assembly leaders spar over federal reductions, income taxes at Chamber luncheon

Complicating matters is the uncertainty in Washington, D.C., and whether expected funding will be clawed back or delayed for projects like replacing the Washington Bridge or the annual dollars for grants to local colleges and universities will shrink enough to hamper the state’s progress, said Shekarchi.
 
“What’s happening in Washington will have a direct impact on what is happening in Rhode Island,” he said.

The Boston Globe:
R.I. legislators debate Trump’s impact on business, the budget, and the Washington Bridge

During Wednesday’s Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce legislative luncheon, House Majority Leader Christopher R. Blazejewski, a Providence Democrat, said businesses always emphasize the need for stability and predictability from government.
 
" Right now, we don’t have even 60 minutes of predictability coming out of Washington," he said.

The Providence Journal: 
RI lawmakers won't rule out income tax hike due to Washington 'chaos'

House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi told a Chamber of Commerce audience that much depends on whether Congress slashes Medicaid and Medicare spending.