2026 Eggs & Issues Town Hall

Description

Join the Chamber and Presenting Sponsor Crow Wing Power for Eggs & Issues, our annual legislative discussion on business, jobs and the economy. With November elections approaching and a multi-billion dollar deficit projected for 2028 and 2029, lawmakers will be making tough calls that will affect small businesses and communities across Minnesota.

NEW FOR 2026: The event will feature a “town hall” format with more Q&A and direct discussions with legislators. Come prepared with questions!

All event proceeds support the Chamber’s government affairs work as the regional voice of business, including voter education through LakesArea.vote. The site helps residents research candidates and compare positions before voting. Launched in 2024, the site generated thousands of page views across our communities.

Keep Small Business Growing in Minnesota
Minnesota continues to get more expensive for employers, especially our small businesses that can’t absorb higher costs. We rank among the least competitive states on taxes, with the 6th highest individual income tax rate and the 2nd highest corporate income tax rate. Since 2021, at least 29 states have lowered major taxes while Minnesota has largely stood still. The legislature should start by conforming to federal tax policies in order to keep smaller companies investing, expanding and hiring.

Get Permitting Timelines Back on Track
When construction projects get stuck in environmental permitting, financing, bids, hiring, and timelines all stall. Minnesota review times are 1.5 to 6 times longer than neighboring states, costing at least $900 million each year. Build on 2025 progress while protecting clean water, land and air.

Respect Business Feedback on Paid Leave
Paid Family and Medical Leave is a major change for employers. The Legislature should listen to real-time business feedback and adjust as issues arise. The goal is a smooth program that does not overburden small businesses and their teams, including strong safeguards against fraudulent claims.

Treat Fraud as a Business Issue
Fraud is not just a government problem. It is a business issue that drives up costs, weakens trust, and pulls resources away from other priorities. In the Feeding Our Future case alone, prosecutors said more than $240 million in federal funds were stolen. The state needs bipartisan solutions for stronger prevention, faster enforcement and real consequences so the cost does not land on business taxpayers.

Invest in High-Impact Projects
We support projects with private investment, professional management and clear regional impact. The National Loon Center and WonderTrek Children’s Museum outdoor exhibits and are on track to open in 2027. Public support can help finish WonderTrek and drive year-round tourism and economic growth.