The Detroit Regional Chamber runs one of the most respected advocacy programs in Michigan.
Releasing its legislative priorities every year, the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Public Policy and Business Advocacy team sets an aggressive agenda with each new legislative session, working directly with its members to best represent the interests of Michigan’s job creators.
“The Detroit Regional Chamber, working in collaboration with partners across the state, is dedicated to advancing an agenda based on common ground and shared economic prosperity. The Chamber believes that by focusing on a unified set of priorities and a strategy that transcends administrations, Michigan can have a more vibrant economy that delivers higher wages, attracts new families and high-growth companies, and improves quality of life in every community.”
– Brian J. Shoaf, Vice President, Public Policy and Business Advocacy, Detroit Regional Chamber
2026 Policy Priorities
Business Climate
A stable and competitive business environment is foundational to economic growth.
Mobility
Leveraging Michigan’s signature automotive and mobility industry is key to maintaining its global competitiveness.
Economic Development
Targeted economic development drives statewide goals, starting with Michigan’s strengths.
Regional Growth
Robust and equitable growth requires strong regional collaboration, and the Chamber will continue to lead these discussions.
Talent
A skilled, resilient workforce drives prosperity and attracts innovative companies.
Good Government
The erosion of confidence in democracy and a lack of stability continues to threaten the state’s and nation’s global economic leadership.
In 2026, the Chamber will aggressively advocate against and work with our business association peers to thwart several proposed ballot proposals that may harm the state’s business climate. The Chamber hopes to protect the business community from misguided changes to the Michigan Constitution that will harm employers and small businesses, while stifling economic growth.
- Graduated Income Tax
- The proposal, strategically named “Invest in MI Kids,” to divert attention from the significant small business impacts, creates a second tax bracket for filers who have an income of $500,000 or $1 million if filing jointly. Over 90% of filers who would qualify for this bracket are actually small business owners filing their business revenue as a pass-through entity on their personal income taxes, which doesn’t take into account actual profits.
- Minimum Wage Changes
- Reverses hard-earned amendments to the Earned Sick Time Act from February 2025, which would allow employees to face no consequences for no-call-no-show absences and implement mandatory sick time that small businesses cannot afford.
- Lobby Law Overhaul
- Disarms any entity from lobbying or otherwise interacting with the legislature if they receive any state money, meaning chambers of commerce, nonprofits, and many employers would not be able to utilize their free speech rights in working with public leaders, making policy decisions that impact their business, community, and employees.
Get Involved
Detroit Regional Chamber Political Action Committee (PAC)
The Chamber PAC comprises business leaders representing bipartisan views and reflecting diversity in industry, business size, and location. The Chamber PAC historically makes bipartisan endorsements based on alignment with the Chamber’s policy priorities. In the 2024 general election, more than 96% of the PAC’s endorsed candidates won their respective races. Learn more.
Advocacy Advisory Council
The Advocacy Advisory Council is an exclusive opportunity for Signature Chamber members to receive updates directly from the Government Relations team on issues impacting the business community, hear from guest speakers and leaders in the community, and provide valuable feedback on policy and other issues at the local, state, and national level. Learn more.
Meet the Team
Learn more about the Chamber PAC or Advocacy Advisory Council.
Contact the Government Relations Team.
Click Here
