Advocacy in Action – Government Affairs Update
Throughout the summer months, the Chamber has maintained an active presence in policy discussions that directly impact your business operations and growth opportunities. From engaging with federal tax reform to advocating for critical state funding and strengthening municipal partnerships, our advocacy efforts have focused on removing barriers and creating opportunities for North Central Massachusetts businesses and communities.
As we transition into fall, we’re excited to offer several high-profile events that will connect you directly with decision-makers shaping the policies affecting your bottom line.
Federal Affairs
Tax Bill Analysis: At the end of July, the Chamber took an in-depth look at the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (H.R. 1) and provided a comprehensive summary and analysis for members of the North Central Massachusetts business community. When signed into law, the bill clocked in at 870 pages worth of provisions that significantly impact tax policy, business operations, and federal spending across multiple sectors.
Recognizing that this bill impacts businesses as well as employees in different ways, the Chamber provided an objective, fact-based analysis. We focused on key tax provisions that impact the local business community like making the Section 199A qualified business income deduction of 20% permanent, SALT relief, and changes to 1099 reporting requirements. We also examined the enhanced business expensing and research and development expenditures, two issues that have dominated discussions with employers in recent years.
The analysis also looked at items affecting employers and employees including changes to individual income tax rates, no tax on tips and overtime provisions, changes to the estate tax, and family and medical leave credits. It was also important to recognize that the provision included a number of changes to areas and programs like Medicaid, SNAP, the energy sector and education. The analysis examined how these changes may impact specific industries in the region, employees as well as the overall workforce and items for employers to consider as provisions of the bill are implemented. The complete analysis is available online here.
Trade Policy: As we noted in our last newsletter, the Trump Administration continues to utilize increased tariffs as an integral part of its foreign and economic policies, with announcements, retractions, and pauses affecting various industries and countries. The Chamber has continued to monitor these developments throughout the summer and remains in communication with our congressional delegation and partners with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to advocate for member interests in trade policy discussions.
Congressional Luncheon: The Chamber is currently engaging with Congressman Jim McGovern and Congresswoman Lori Trahan’s offices as we finalize our annual Congressional Luncheon. This popular event provides members with an opportunity to hear from the region’s Congressional representation about what is being worked on in Washington D.C. as well as an opportunity to engage them on issues facing the region’s business community. At the time of this writing, the event is tentatively scheduled for November 7, with more details to be released as they become available.
State Affairs
State Budget: On July 4, Governor Maura Healey signed the state’s FY2026 budget which came in at $60.9 billion following conference committee and $130 million in vetoes from the Governor. While missing the July 1st deadline, this was the earliest a spending budget for the Commonwealth had been signed in 15 years. The Chamber was pleased to see that the final version of the plan did not include any major taxes or new fees.
Following its passage, the Chamber has engaged our state delegation regarding the Governor’s veto of regional economic development funding. This funding directly supports services and resources that help local businesses start, grow, and expand—critical services that our members rely on to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in today’s economy. On the tourism front, the Chamber successfully advocated for amendments regarding timing allocation and usage of tourism funds that will help build effective marketing campaigns for the region in the coming year. A strong tourism sector drives customer traffic to local businesses, supports hospitality and retail jobs, and generates vital economic activity throughout our communities. While these funds were approved, the Governor has delayed their release until Fall, citing fiscal uncertainty and pending federal budget cuts. The Chamber is actively monitoring this situation to ensure our region receives these critical resources.
Local Affairs
Municipal Engagement: Throughout the summer, staff from the Chamber continued to communicate and meet with local officials in our communities. Recently, discussions have taken place with municipal staff in Ayer, Lancaster, Sterling, Winchendon, and our three cities: Fitchburg, Gardner and Leominster to discuss a range of items important to our members including zoning and permitting, economic development and housing. These ongoing dialogues strengthen the Chamber’s role as a vital advocate and connector between businesses and local government. This direct engagement helps our members navigate local regulations more efficiently, access development opportunities faster, and ensures their business concerns are heard at the municipal level where many critical decisions affecting day-to-day operations are made.
Legislative and Candidates Reception: Once again, the Chamber will convene members and officials for our annual Legislative and Candidates Reception. This year’s event will feature a change of scenery when it occurs on Thursday September 25 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at the Sterling National Country Club. This signature event puts our members in the room with our local officials, mayors, legislative delegation, congressional delegation and statewide constitutional officers as well as those running for office for a night of networking and conversation. Invitations are currently being prepared and sent out for officials and candidates.
Tourism Destination Marketing District: The Chamber has been working with hospitality industry members throughout the region to explore the potential for tourism destination marketing districts. We are now focused on establishing the first district in Fitchburg in 2026. This business-led initiative would give our region greater control over tourism promotion, enhance regional efforts and reduce reliance on state funding—allowing local businesses to directly invest in and shape marketing efforts that drive visitors to their establishments. Once the Fitchburg district is operational, we plan to explore expanding this model to other communities throughout the region.
For more information about any of these government affairs updates or to discuss specific policy concerns, please contact Travis Condon, Director of Public Affairs at 978.353.7600 or via email at .
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