The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance Advocacy Committee, along with a delegation of the region’s business and civic leaders, convened in Raleigh Wednesday to hear from lawmakers and discuss progress on legislative priorities of the business community.
Part of the discussion was especially timely as the state Senate passed Medicaid expansion and sent the bill back to the House for concurrence. The CLT Alliance is a leading supporter of Medicaid expansion and will continue to work with lawmakers as the policy moves through the legislative and budgetary process.
The advocacy committee also covered additional items in the CLT Alliance legislative agenda, including the jet fuel sales tax exemption, affordable housing, education and workforce funding, and sports wagering. This week, a bill was filed on sports wagering, and the CLT Alliance will continue to support this policy.
“By bringing the Charlotte Region’s leaders to the Capitol, the CLT Alliance is creating a tangible connection between the business community and lawmakers,” Kevin McLaughlin, chair of the CLT Alliance Advocacy Committee, said. “Lawmakers gain a greater appreciation for the needs of the Charlotte Region when their local business and civic leaders come and meet face to face and tell their stories about their communities.”
Following the advocacy committee meeting, the CLT Alliance hosted a legislative reception, with many investors and lawmakers in attendance. Gov. Roy Cooper and Speaker Tim Moore addressed the attendees, with both leaders speaking about progress on Medicaid expansion and other regional priorities. Cooper and Moore both emphasized the importance of the region working together and bringing a unified message to Raleigh.
The CLT Alliance will build on this week’s advocacy committee trip and our weekly presence in Raleigh to continue advocating for business and being a resource to policymakers.
