Workforce development, state budget discussed at 2019 Chamber Day

More than 90 state and local chamber representatives from across Pennsylvania met in Harrisburg Tuesday for the 2019 Chamber Day at the State Capitol to discuss workforce development, the state budget, and other topics.

The annual event is co-hosted by the PA Chamber of Business and Industry and the Pennsylvania Association of Chamber Professionals (PACP). It provides a forum for dialogue between local chamber officers and policymakers on issues important to the state’s business community.

“Each year, Chamber Day provides an invaluable opportunity for representatives of local business communities to come together and collectively advocate for pro-growth measures that will help to improve the state’s economic climate,” PA Chamber President and CEO Gene Barr said. “Our local chamber partners play a critical role in promoting the needs and challenges of their respective regions and in identifying policies that will help businesses of all sizes across the Commonwealth to thrive. We’re pleased that so many local chambers were able to participate in this year’s event.”

The program featured panel discussions on a wide range of topics, including workforce development, community revitalization, and transportation and infrastructure.

Senate President Pro Tempore Joseph Scarnati (R-Jefferson) and Speaker of the House Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny) provided welcoming remarks. Attendees received an update on the status of state budget negotiations from the Appropriations Committee Chairs from each legislative chamber, and State Treasurer Joe Torsella delivered the keynote luncheon address.

“Chamber Day is not only one of the best professional development and networking opportunities that PACP has to offer, it’s the single best platform for Chamber professionals across the Commonwealth to represent our members and their interests to our elected officials,” Cambria Regional Chamber Vice President and PACP Board Chair Debra Orner said. “The opportunity for legislators to interact with representatives of thousands of businesses is invaluable.”