Championing the Voice of Business
As the collective voice for businesses in the River Parishes, the River Region Chamber advocates for a pro-business environment that fosters innovation, investment, and opportunity.
We work closely with decision-makers to advance policies that support both large industries and small businesses — the backbone of our regional economy. Whether advocating for streamlined permitting, access to capital, or workforce support, our Chamber ensures that the concerns of entrepreneurs and local business owners are front and center.
Recently, the Chamber partnered with regional, state, and local partners to oppose an increase in occupational licensing fees that would have burdened small contractors and service providers. By engaging in dialogue and presenting member feedback, the Chamber successfully influenced a fairer policy outcome that protected small businesses while supporting community revenue needs.
Our Legislative Priorities
The Chamber's public policy priorities are guided by a deep commitment to promoting regional competitiveness and long-term prosperity.
Our core areas of focus include:
- Small Business Advocacy: Ensuring that entrepreneurs and local business owners have a seat at the table in shaping business-friendly policies.
- Economic Growth: Encouraging investment, job creation, and entrepreneurship across the River Parishes.
- Infrastructure Development: Supporting modern transportation, utilities, and broadband systems that strengthen commerce.
- Workforce & Education: Advocating for policies that develop a skilled workforce and align education with business needs.
- Regulatory Reform: Promoting fair, efficient regulations that reduce red tape for small and medium-sized businesses.
- Quality of Life: Advancing initiatives that improve housing, healthcare access, and sustainability — making our region a better place to live and work.
These priorities ensure that our advocacy efforts reflect the diverse needs of our members — from family-owned businesses to industrial employers.
How We Advocate
Our advocacy approach is rooted in collaboration, communication, and connection.
We believe effective advocacy happens when businesses and policymakers work together to shape solutions that serve both economic and community goals.
The Chamber advocates through:
- Legislative Engagement: Meeting with policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels to communicate member priorities.
- Public Policy Committee: Providing a platform for members to discuss issues, develop positions, and guide the Chamber’s advocacy agenda.
- Policy Statements & Reports: Offering insights and recommendations on critical legislation and regional challenges.
- Regional Partnerships: Collaborating with neighboring chambers, economic development agencies, and business coalitions for greater impact.
Member Involvement Opportunities
Advocacy is strongest when our members are part of the conversation. The River Region Chamber of Commerce encourages businesses of all sizes to engage in shaping public policy.
Ways to get involved include:
- Joining the Public Policy Committee.
- Attending Legislative Breakfasts and Policy Forums.
- Submitting input on proposed regulations.
- Sharing feedback from the small business community to influence
- Chamber policy positions.
By getting involved, members can help influence the decisions that impact their operations, employees, and communities.
The Chamber continually tracks and communicates key developments in state and regional policy.
Our recent advocacy work has focused on:
- Supporting small business recovery programs following regional storms and economic disruptions.
- Promoting workforce readiness and apprenticeship initiatives.
- Advocating for infrastructure funding to improve local transportation routes.
- Encouraging investment in education and technical training.
Through this work, the River Region Chamber remains a trusted partner to policymakers and a respected advocate for business growth.
Advocacy is more than policy — it’s about people, progress, and partnership.
The Chamber’s ongoing engagement ensures that the voices of our members — especially small business owners — are represented where it matters most.
By standing together, we can build a stronger business climate and a more vibrant River Region.
Get Involved in Advocacy
Ready to make a difference?
Join the River Region Chamber and take an active role in shaping the policies that affect your business and your community.