Advocacy
The Chamber works to identify issues that affect Lawrence and mobilizes efforts toward solving those issues through civic engagement. We advocate for solutions through education and civic engagement among businesses, non-profit organizations and government. Advocacy is just one of our member benefits.
METL Coalition
METL is a regional coalition of the Manhattan, Emporia, Topeka, and Lawrence Chambers of Commerce, which seeks to leverage the combined strength of nearly 3,000 member businesses and organizations, represented by 30 elected representatives and senators in our region. Our motto is Stronger Together. METL pledges to work side-by-side with state officials and elected representatives to maintain fiscal responsibility while helping lead economic recovery efforts in our communities and throughout the state.
Government & Community Affairs (GCA)
The Chamber hosts Government & Community Affairs luncheons on the second Wednesday of each month to discuss advocacy and outreach. The group is open to Chamber members and features speakers on a variety of topics pertinent to Lawrence and Douglas County.
To receive our weekly GCA updates, contact Evie Lazzarino, VP of External Affairs.
Legislative Priorities
Each year, The Chamber sets its legislative priorities at the state and federal levels. With input from the Public Policy Task Force—a group of Chamber members focused on government and community affairs—and using guiding principles for advocacy and policy evaluation, The Chamber determines its priorities for the year ahead.
Read our current legislative priorities.
