Unified Voice of Business | Chamber Leads Dialogue with State Leadership

The Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce brought together Kansas legislative leadership and business leaders for conversations on policies shaping our region's economic future ahead of the Topeka Legislative Reception on February 24. The reception is more than a networking event. It reinforces the Chamber’s role as the unified voice of business in Kansas and ensures our members have meaningful access to decision-makers during the legislative session.

Briefing with State Leadership

Ahead of the reception, the Chamber hosted a private briefing featuring four key state leaders:

• David Toland, Kansas Lt. Governor & Secretary of Commerce

• Ty Masterson, Kansas Senate President

• Dan Hawkins, Kansas House Speaker

• Chase Blasi, Kansas Senate Majority Leader

The discussion centered on economic development, legislative progress and the fiscal challenges facing the state.

Economic Development & Regional Competitiveness

Lt. Governor Toland provided an update on recent economic development wins across Kansas, highlighting several high-impact projects announced in recent months. He emphasized that the state continues to compete successfully for major investments.

At the same time, he expressed a clear desire to see more of those victories land in the Wichita region. His remarks underscored the importance of ensuring Wichita remains competitive and positioned for future business growth. For the Chamber, that message aligns directly with our focus on creating the conditions for strong business and long-term regional prosperity.

Property Taxes & the 90-Day Session

Senate President Masterson offered an overview of progress during this year’s 90-day legislative session. He made it clear that property taxes remain the top concern among Kansas residents, driven in large part by rising valuations impacting both homeowners and businesses.

House Speaker Hawkins echoed the intensity of the session, sharing that the House has passed a record number of bills, many now under Senate consideration. He highlighted the chamber’s pace and productivity while acknowledging the political realities of advancing budget reductions and securing enough votes to withstand potential gubernatorial vetoes.

Budget Discipline & Long-Term Spending

Senate Majority Leader Blasi focused on the state’s budget trajectory and the need to rein in government spending. He emphasized that current spending levels and the size of the state budget warrant closer examination and long-term discipline.

His remarks reinforced broader fiscal concerns shared by legislative leadership and underscored the ongoing debate about sustainable budgeting in Kansas.

Common Themes for Kansas Businesses

While each leader brought a distinct perspective, several clear themes emerged:

• Budget and long-term spending pressures

• Property tax relief as a top priority for Kansans

• The need to accelerate economic growth, particularly in the Wichita region

These conversations matter. They directly impact workforce development, business costs, competitiveness and the overall economic climate in which our members operate.

The Chamber will continue to advocate for policies that strengthen industry, support employers and position Wichita for sustained growth. Events like the Topeka Legislative Reception ensure that the voice of South Central Kansas business leaders is heard clearly and consistently at the Statehouse.

That is advocacy that works.