The economic competitiveness of Colorado has experienced a steady decline over the past decade as the political environment has shifted away from a more pragmatic balance toward progressive activism. To be certain, our state legislature has always been a forum for sending up trial balloons on a range of issues that appeal to slice of our population, though roughest edges were typically rounded off to deliver a fair compromise of all interests by the time legislation was passed.
Engaging our state legislators to find that balance has been the central role of the Northern Colorado Legislative Alliance, a partnership between the Loveland, Greeley and Fort Collins Chambers of Commerce alongside Upstate Colorado as our expert in economic development across the region. The effort is further supported through our professional lobbyists at Capital Solutions. With a range of expertise, business leaders that serve on the NCLA Board of Directors meet throughout the year to identify key issues while developing working relationships with our elected leaders. During the 120-day legislative session, the Board meets weekly to discuss the latest happenings and debate proposed bills that directly impact the business community.
This may require sifting through more than 700 separate bills introduced for consideration. Typically, the NCLA Board may take a formal position on 75-100 pieces of legislation – support, oppose, seek amendment, or monitor the issue while gathering further information on the subject. As legislation wends its way through committees and each chamber, the Board must also monitor and analyze any amendments that may improve or degrade our assessment.
As a volunteer body, the Board makes every attempt to keep the membership of the four lead agencies apprised of issues of particular importance with greater detail, though maintains a real-time tracking report of all legislation on our radar. That report can be found here.
From time to time, members may also receive a call to action – a solicitation to reach out directly to your elected representative to express your concerns or support for a bill scheduled for debate. In such cases, members are encouraged to express how a bill will affect you and your business. In general, the insight of small business owners carry much greater credibility with elected leaders than paid lobbyists and association representatives.
Though our collective efforts are under greater pressure, we can and have made positive strides. In adding your voice, NCLA endeavors to significantly improve the competitive environment in which your business operates for the betterment of all Coloradans.
Recent Comments