Kansas Chamber of Commerce
From Sunshine Review
The Kansas Chamber of Commerce has a seven-person staff (as of September 2008).
- Amy J. Blankenbiller, President & CEO
- Nicole Van Velzen, Executive and Public Affairs Director
- Jeff Glendening, Vice President of Political Affairs
- J. Kent Eckles, Vice President of Government Affairs
- Rachelle J. Colombo, Senior Director of Legislative Affairs
- Susan Boatright, Office Manager
- Randy Johnson, Technology Manager
[edit] Contact Information
Kansas Chamber of Commerce
835 SW Topeka Blvd.
Topeka, KS 66612-1671
Phone: 785-357-6321
Fax: 785-357-4732
[edit] Agenda
During the 2008 Legislative Session, the Kansas Chamber had the following issues listed as part of their agenda.
- Health Care Costs - the top concern of business owners in Kansas.
"The Kansas Chamber supports market-based solutions that put more tools in the hands of employers to help manage the fastest rising cost of doing business. The agenda includes small business tax incentives, better health information technology, limited benefit plans, and better cost and quality transparency."
- Taxes on Business - inhibits economic growth and capital investment.
"The Chamber is focused on modernizing the corporate income tax system and reducing corporate and personal income taxes. Kansas ranks near the bottom third of the nation in providing a competitive tax climate for employers. Only by accomplishing true business tax reform can the state win the competition with other states and attract, keep and grow businesses."
- Workers Comp and Unemployment Comp - These costs continue to increase and impact job creation.
- Improving the Legal Climate- pro-active initiatives are needed to protect business owners against unfair lawsuits.
"It is imperative that we ensure any proposed legislation does not have negative consequences is essential in helping all Kansans achieve economic success." [1]
