Federal Affairs
Ending the Tariff Wars
The LRCC is working closely with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to urge a swift end to the ongoing tariff wars, particularly those affecting our North American trade partners. The business community is increasingly alarmed by the ripple effects tariffs have on supply chains, input costs, and consumer prices.
Key Takeaways from the U.S. Chamber’s Tariffs Briefing (March 2025):
- Tariffs = Taxes: U.S. tariffs are paid by American businesses and consumers—not foreign governments.
- Economic Drag: Ongoing tariffs have contributed to higher prices on essential goods, disrupting manufacturers and retailers alike.
- Harm to Competitiveness: U.S. exports face retaliatory tariffs, reducing global market access for Michigan-made products.
- Sector Impacts: Agriculture, automotive, and manufacturing sectors are among the hardest hit.
Call to Action: The U.S. Chamber is urging the administration to roll back Section 232 and 301 tariffs, especially on U.S. allies.
Calculate Your Potential Tax Increase
We’re working with the U.S. Chamber to advocate for the renewal of the 2017 Tax Cuts & Jobs Act. Without Congressional action, many provisions—such as the 20% qualified business income deduction for pass-through businesses—will expire in 2025, resulting in one of the largest tax increases in U.S. history.
State Affairs
Roads, Roads, Roads: Competing Plans Emerge
From Governor Whitmer’s $3 billion proposal to the House GOP’s revenue-neutral plan, multiple strategies are on the table to close Michigan’s $3.9 billion road funding gap. Each proposal carries implications for businesses and infrastructure investment. LRCC is closely monitoring negotiations and is a proud member of the Build It Strong Michigan Coalition.
Calling for a Return to Office for State Employees
 LRCC and Choose Lansing have urged the Whitmer Administration to implement a consistent in-person work policy for state employees. With over $100 million invested in downtown Lansing and projects like Michigan Avenue’s reconstruction and the new Vision Lansing underway, revitalizing our capital city depends on a robust downtown workforce.
Regional & Local Affairs
Supporting the EV Economy: Incentive Transfers for Battery Plant
LRCC has joined a coalition calling for the seamless transfer of local and state incentives tied to a transformational EV battery plant project in the region. This once-in-a-generation investment will bolster job creation and Michigan’s leadership in the clean energy economy. Read the coalition's press release here or more information is available below.
Lansing City Charter Review: LRCC Provides Input
The Lansing City Charter Commission is exploring significant changes to our city’s governance structure. LRCC has submitted formal comments supporting the strong mayor system, recommending a more efficient council structure, and advocating for continued independence and accountability for the Board of Water & Light.
Upcoming Events
Policy Forum Featuring House Speaker Matt Hall
Join us for our 2025 LRCC Policy Forum as we welcome Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives, Matt Hall. Get insights on legislative priorities, including road funding, economic development, and workforce policy.
April 23 | 5 – 8 p.m. | Country Club of Lansing
Upcoming LRCC Public Affairs Call – April 5, 2025
Join us for our next First Friday: LRCC Public Affairs Call Update, made possible by ITC Holdings, Inc. This virtual meeting offers a timely look at federal, state, and local policy issues impacting Greater Lansing and how LRCC is advocating for your business.
Friday, April 5 | 9 – 10 a.m. | Virtual Only
LRCC Public Affairs Help Desk
Our Public Affairs team is your dedicated advocate, ready to assist with any challenges your business, organization, or non-profit may face at the local, state, or federal levels of government. Our goal is to make it easier for you to get the answers you need, so you can focus on running your business smoothly.