Capitol Connection: April 8, 2025
Federal Affairs
We Want to Hear From You: Take Our Trade & Tariff Policy Impact Survey
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce is gathering input from members on how federal tariff policies are impacting your business. Whether you’re directly involved in international trade or feeling the effects through your supply chain, your feedback is critical in shaping our advocacy efforts. As the Chamber continues to engage with policymakers, your insights will help us ensure that the voice of Greater Lansing’s business community is represented on trade and economic policy issues.
How Broad-Based Tariffs Threaten U.S. Growth
In a recent article, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce warns that broad-based tariffs act as hidden taxes on American consumers and businesses, driving up prices and harming U.S. manufacturers. These tariffs often trigger retaliation from trade partners, hurting American exports and jobs—especially in agriculture and manufacturing. Instead, the Chamber advocates for trade agreements that open markets and reduce barriers
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
State Budget Update: CAPCOG Infrastructure Priorities
The Capital Council of Governments (CAPCOG)—a partnership between Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties, the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Michigan State University—has submitted a $126.6 million regional infrastructure funding request as part of the 2025-2026 state budget process.
The proposal outlines a united regional strategy focused on:
- Economic development and community revitalization
- Education and workforce development
- Water and electric infrastructure
- Roads and transportation
- Housing
Why it matters:
- Strong infrastructure attracts and retains talent
- Regional growth supports new business investment and job creation
- Streamlined, coordinated advocacy helps secure more state resources
Investments in housing and transportation directly impact workforce availability and access to jobs
Regional & Local Affairs
Major Investment Breaks Ground in Downtown Lansing
A transformational investment is officially underway in the heart of downtown Lansing. The New Vision Lansing initiative—totaling approximately $315 million—launched this week with the groundbreaking of its signature project, the Tower on Grand. This 28-story skyscraper will reshape Lansing’s skyline and become the tallest building in the city’s history. Construction will take roughly two years on the lot located at 235 S. Grand Ave., between the Grand Tower and an adjacent parking garage.
Why it matters to our region:
- Signals confidence and long-term investment in Lansing’s urban core
- Attracts new businesses, residents, and amenities to the city
- Supports jobs and local economic growth throughout Greater Lansing
- Enhances vibrancy, walkability, and downtown living
Read more about this exciting regional development:
Lansing City Council Unanimously Approves LG Energy Project Incentives
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce applauds the unanimous approval by Lansing City Council of key resolutions supporting the $2.6 billion LG Energy Solution manufacturing facility at 8100 Davis Hwy.
These approvals, which transfer the Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate and Renaissance Zone designation from Ultium Cells, LLC to LG Energy Solution Michigan, Inc., are critical to the long-term success of this transformational project. LRCC worked closely with the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) to support this effort and submitted a formal letter to City Council ahead of the vote.
LRCC Chamber Townhall Series - April Events
Our Townhall Series offers members direct access to elected officials and candidates in a small group setting to discuss issues shaping our state and local economy.
LRCC Chamber Townhall with MI Secretary of State & Gubernatorial Candidate Jocelyn Benson (D)
Wednesday, April 23 | 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. | Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
LRCC Chamber Townhall with Senator Sarah Anthony
Friday, April 25 | 10 – 11 a.m. | Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
