The Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce has developed policies that it will be placing a priority on in 2005 at both the state and local level.  

Policies with an asterix* are priorities that the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce has developed and will be leading the effort with active Saint Paul Area Chamber support.

More information and policy background can be found in the "Full Policy" position statements. 

EDUCATION 

EDUCATION*
Strengthen accountability for money spent in both the K-12 and higher education systems.
Full Policy (K-12) Full Policy (Higher Ed)

K-12 EDUCATION
Support steps that promote improved academic achievement, increased accountability, and expanded school choice.
Full Policy (PDF)

HEALTH CARE 

HEALTH CARE*
To identify and address the underlying issues that drive rising health care costs.
Full Policies

SMOKING 

SMOKING BAN
The decision on a smoking ban should be made on a statewide basis so not to create economic disparity between businesses on a local level.
Full  Policy (PDF)  

TRANSPORTATION

CENTRAL CORRIDOR
Central Corridor should be the next light rail line built, connecting to the Hiawatha line.
Full Policy (PDF) Central Corridor website

MINNESOTA MOVES
The Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce supports the Minnesota Moves Transportation Proposal as a solution to Minnesota ’s long term transportation funding needs.  
Full Policy (PDF)

MSP INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT EXPANSION
Minneapolis/Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is an important contributor to economic development and business growth in the Twin Cities. 
Full Policy (PDF)

REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION EXPANSION & INVESTMENT
The Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce supports a balanced transportation system integrating roads, bridges, and transit.
Full Policy (PDF)

TRANSPORTATION*
Long-term funding for transportation infrastructure and transit operations to assure the safest and most efficient transportation system to meet our economic and quality of life needs.
Full Policy

2007 FINANCING ALTERNATIVES FOR TRANSPORTATION

FEDERAL AGENDA
The Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce is part of a loose federation of chambers of commerce from across the U.S. This federation approach relies on strong local chambers to advocate and lead business friendly policies regionally while looking to our state and national chambers of commerce to lead on state and national policy issues. 
Full Policies (PDF)