Quad Cities Chamber Blog

Property tax reform remains a key issue as Iowa legislative season nears end

April 1, 2026

As Iowa’s legislative season winds down, property tax reform remains a priority for the legislature and the QC Chamber continues to track proposals in both Iowa houses. Also on the docket are reforms to expand mental health care and tracking modifications to the IEDA Omnibus Bill.

Chamber travels to Springfield to address Missing Middle housing shortages; pushes momentum for QC Passenger Rail

March 27, 2026

The Quad Cities Chamber and a delegation of more than 10 community leaders, traveled to Springfield to advocate for priorities in our 2026 Legislative Agenda. Meetings were held with officials from the House, Senate and Governor's office to discuss development incentives, workforce issues and the next steps to deliver on the promise of passenger rail to the Quad Cities.

East Moline Mayor Reggie Freeman gives State of the City address

East Moline Mayor Freeman focuses on progress and partnership

March 26, 2026

Mayor Reggie Freeman’s State of the City address underscored a strong commitment to strategic investment, community growth and strengthening East Moline’s business environment.

Iowa Legislature completes first funnel, narrowing 2026 proposed bills

February 26, 2026

Iowa’s first legislative funnel deadline on February 20 marked a significant narrowing of the bills proposed in 2026. The session remains exceptionally active, with more than 2,500 bills introduced, far outpacing prior years.

Chamber responds to Bettendorf State of City address

February 26, 2026

The Quad Cities Chamber applauds Bettendorf Mayor Bob Gallagher's State of the City address, which highlighted the City's consistent focus on fiscal responsibility, orderly and quality development and excellent quality of life and services for residents - all of which align with the Chamber's Local Legislative Agenda

Chamber statement on Illinois Governor Pritzker’s state budget address

February 19, 2026

On Wednesday, Feb. 18, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker delivered his budget address, outlining priorities that impact employers across Illinois, including here in the Quad Cities. The QC Chamber is encouraged to see a focus on economic growth, workforce development and affordability reflected in the Governor’s agenda. Employers across the Quad Cities remain focused on growth, talent development and cost stability, and we appreciate the administration’s recognition of these shared priorities.

Advocating for QC in Des Moines

February 11, 2026

QC Chamber leaders joined forces with business and community leaders at the Iowa Capitol this week to advocate for the QC. We connected with Senate and House leadership, our local legislators, and key departments to discuss property taxes, workforce training, passenger rail compact and other issues.

Chamber commends Moline Mayor Rayapati’s future-focused State of the City address

February 3, 2026

The Quad Cities Chamber commends Moline Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati for a future-focused State of the City address.

Millions appropriated for Rock Island Arsenal in defense appropriations bill

January 30, 2026

The Rock Island Arsenal Defense Alliance (RIADA) worked hard to advocate for funding for Rock Island Arsenal and the Quad Cities region.

Chamber applauds Rock Island Mayor Harris for visionary State of the City address

January 29, 2026

Mayor Harris touched upon several important topics in his State of the City address that align with the QC Chamber's Local Legislative Agenda

Quad Cities Smart Design and Manufacturing Lab (QCSDM)

R&D options in the QC just got better

January 28, 2026

Most Quad Cities manufacturers may not realize they have direct access to one of the region’s most advanced research and development assets, an Iowa State University–operated laboratory designed specifically to help businesses innovate, test new ideas and solve complex production challenges.

City of Davenport roundtable discusses issues including property tax changes, homelessness

January 21, 2026

The Quad Cities Chamber convened a roundtable on January 21, bringing together 29 members of the regional business community with City of Davenport officials for a focused, productive discussion on issues shaping the City’s future.

Chamber statement on Governor Reynolds’ Condition of State

January 14, 2026

On Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2025, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds presented her last Condition of the State, touching on several issues that are top priorities for the Quad Cities business community including property tax reform, unemployment insurance, energy & infrastructure and business attraction.

Grow QC and the QC Chamber missions remain strong heading into 2026

December 17, 2025

Here’s a look at what Grow Quad Cities and the Chamber have been focused on as we head into 2026.

Chamber hosts roundtable with City of Bettendorf

December 10, 2025

This week, the Chamber hosted a local government roundtable in Bettendorf, bringing together city officials and business leaders for an open, solutions-focused discussion on the issues shaping the local business environment. Topics included the upcoming police station and transportation planning.

Chamber hosts Iowa Governor Reynolds for Property Tax Roundtable

November 18, 2025

On Tuesday, November 18, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds traveled to the Quad Cities to meet with city, county, school and business leaders from across Scott County at an invitation-only event hosted by the Chamber. The discussion centered on opportunities to reform Iowa's property tax system ahead of the 2026 legislative session.

Rock Island Arsenal Defense Alliance and Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute partnering; Executive Director hired

November 18, 2025

The Rock Island Arsenal Defense Alliance (RIADA), an affiliate of the Quad Cities Chamber, and Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute (QCMI) have joined forces to maximize the resources of both organizations to drive large-scale economic growth for the Quad Cities region. Col. Shawn Creamer (U.S. Army, Ret.) has been hired as the joint Executive Director.

Government shutdown ends

November 14, 2025

On Wednesday, November 12, President Trump signed legislation providing a temporary funding fix for the federal government, ending the shutdown.

2025 Iowa municipal elections recap

November 5, 2025

The Quad Cities Chamber congratulates all newly elected and re-elected officials following the November 2025 Iowa municipal elections. We commend every candidate who stepped forward to serve their community and thank voters for participating in this important democratic process.

Funding secured for Quad Cities - Chicago passenger rail

October 31, 2025

At a press conference Oct. 31, it was announced that $475 million has been allocated in the transit bill for downtown state projects, including funding for the Quad Cities – Chicago passenger rail.

Illinois veto session impacts for QC

October 31, 2025

The Illinois Legislature adjourned veto session early Friday morning having taken action on a number of priorities for the Quad Cities Chamber including passenger rail, energy omnibus, federal tax decoupling, prevailing wage for private TIF projects and River Edge Redevelopment Zone Historic Tax Credit.

Passenger rail funding uncertain in Illinois, Quad Citizens encouraged to contact legislators

October 27, 2025

With only three days remaining for legislative action, a comprehensive transit package which potentially includes major capital investments across Illinois is under active debate. We urge Quad Citizens to contact their Illinois legislators and encourage them to include funding for passenger rail between Chicago and the Quad Cities in a transit bill.

Passenger Rail vote expected by end of October

October 15, 2025

The Quad Cities Chamber joined the Rock Island County Passenger Rail Committee to kick off the Illinois Fall Veto Session. The Passenger Rail project was included in the Senate-passed transit reform package during the spring legislative session, which now goes to the House for passage or amendment.

Prepare for the Iowa municipal elections on November 4

October 15, 2025

The Quad Cities Chamber is proud to support civic engagement among our members, especially during election season. As part of our commitment to informed participation, in September 2025, we distributed a candidate questionnaire to all individuals running for office in the Bettendorf and Davenport City elections.

QC Chamber joins Iowa Chamber Alliance in D.C. for conversations with federal lawmakers

October 13, 2025

The Quad Cities Chamber joined the Iowa Chamber Alliance, a coalition of the largest chambers of commerce from across Iowa, for conversations with federal lawmakers. Topics included addressing uncertainty in the business community (immigration, trade), promoting housing investment and an overhaul of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

Passenger Rail Update: Committee members will travel to Springfield next week ahead of veto session

October 10, 2025

The Rock Island County Passenger Rail Committee is joining with new partners to take immediate steps ahead of next week’s veto session, focusing its energy on advocating for funding of the Chicago-to-Moline Passenger Rail project.

The government shutdown and how it affects businesses

October 1, 2025

This morning, the Federal government entered a shutdown, meaning that non-essential services will cease operations until a funding deal has been agreed to by Congress and signed by President Trump. It is currently unknown how long this impasse will last.

Chamber heads to D.C. for advocacy fly-ins

September 17, 2025

This week, the Chamber joined the Illinois Manufacturers Association (IMA) and Business for Federal Research Funding for two different fly-ins to Washington D.C.

What’s behind the Executive Order on Tariff Policy? What you need to know

September 10, 2025

On September 5, President Trump signed a sweeping Executive Order that reconfigures the U.S. tariff regime—marking a pivotal shift in trade and national-economic strategy.

New Rail Committee created to push for passage of the Chicago-to-Moline Passenger Rail project

September 9, 2025

Community leaders from across the Quad Cities today announced the formation of a new Rock Island County Passenger Rail Committee that will focus its energy on advocating for passage of the Chicago-to-Moline Passenger Rail project.

QC Chamber joins U.S. Chamber in supporting Permitting Reform

September 3, 2025

The Quad Cities Chamber recently signed a U.S. Chamber of Commerce coalition letter supporting permitting reform and encouraging Congress to take necessary steps to unlock investment across the United States.

Iowa Chamber Alliance retreat sets stage for Chamber’s Iowa legislative priorities

September 2, 2025

Goal setting and policy priorities were the emphasis at this year’s Iowa Chamber Alliance’s (ICA) Annual Retreat held in Iowa City. The retreat is an annual event that allows the Alliance — a coalition of 16 of the largest Chambers across Iowa — to come together to collaborate and elevate local priorities.

Congresswoman Miller-Meeks visits Davenport’s Oertel Metal Works

August 19, 2025

Mariannette Miller-Meeks, U.S. Congresswoman from Iowa, visited Oertel Metal Works (a McCarthy-Bush Company), Davenport, this week. During the visit, leadership from the company joined the Congresswoman for a tour, highlighting the innovative work and investment by the company in recent years, and to discuss the positive impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBA) passed earlier this year.

Help Rock Island remove the fire sprinkler mandate for new homes

August 5, 2025

Contact the Rock Island City Council to help them fully remove the mandate on requiring fire sprinkler systems in all new one and two-family homes built in Rock Island. The ordinance will be up for a second reading at the next council meeting on August 11. Visit the Chamber's Advocacy Action Center to instantly send an email to all council members.

Chamber roundtables encourage business leaders to dig deeper into local issues

July 23, 2025

Our team continues to advocate for businesses by creating a bridge between local elected officials and Quad Cities business leaders. This summer, roundtables were held in Illinois in East Moline, Moline and Rock Island. Similar events will be held in Iowa after the local elections in November.

Federal Tax Legislation is a win for the local business community

July 10, 2025

For several years, the Quad Cities Chamber has advocated for certainty and the extension of key federal tax provisions for employers. Last week, President Trump signed legislation into law that includes a permanent extension of all the Chamber’s tax priorities.

Chamber pushes priorities forward as Illinois unveils $200M site readiness investment

June 25, 2025

On Wednesday, June 18, Illinois Deputy Governor for Economy and Budget Andy Manar visited the Quad Cities for a regional meeting to discuss several important local issues, including the historic $200M economic development investment in Illinois, as well as the Chicago-to-Quad Cities Passenger Rail Connection.

Talking taxes and the Arsenal with Congressman Sorensen

June 17, 2025

On June 16, the Quad Cities Chamber convened a group of a dozen business leaders to meet with Congressman Eric Sorensen to discuss the federal tax bill and support for the Rock Island Arsenal, among other items.

Summer Industry Roundtables announced

June 16, 2025

In mid-July, we're hosting a series of four industry roundtables to provide feedback on the most recent Illinois and Iowa state legislative sessions and discuss ongoing federal priorities. The roundtables will also seek business input and discussion on future priorities.

Chamber reacts to Davenport State of City address

June 6, 2025

Davenport Mayor Mike Matson delivered the State of the City address on Thursday, June 4. The Mayor's address highlighted the investments Davenport has made in economic development, placemaking, finances and public safety. The Chamber looks forward to continuing its work with the City of Davenport and appreciates Mayor Matson for his years of partnership and service as his Mayoral tenure comes to an end.

Illinois Legislature finalizes budget and final bills; Transit Reform & Passenger Rail bill still uncertain

June 3, 2025

The Illinois Legislature adjourned on the evening of Saturday, May 31, finalizing the state budget and passing final policy bills, while leaving issues including the Transit Reform & Passenger Rail bill unresolved – likely requiring a special session later this year. Throughout the session, the Chamber's government affairs team worked to pursue new investment in the Quad Cities.

Iowa legislature adjourns, state budget finalized & final bills passed

May 20, 2025

The Iowa legislature adjourned on the morning of Wednesday, May 14, finalizing their budget and passing final policy bills. This session presented opportunities on many priorities, including reform of Iowa’s economic development incentives, unemployment insurance tax reform and the creation of a new Major Events and Tourism Fund to assist in landing large-scale events.

Proposed Rock Island Arsenal merger could critically impact the QC: Sign the petition to stop it

May 13, 2025

The Rock Island Arsenal needs your support. As one of the region's most significant economic drivers, the Arsenal employs approximately 6,250 people and contributes over $1.2 billion annually to our local economy. But a proposed Department of Defense merger could critically impact the Quad Cities economy and national security.

Chamber celebrates Small Business Week by supporting the entrepreneurs who power the QC economy

May 7, 2025

Over 34 million small businesses across the U.S. employ almost half of all American workers. Here in the Quad Cities, small businesses are just as vital, and the Chamber is proud to celebrate these entrepreneurs who sustain our region. In support of National Small Business Week, the Chamber, along with the cities of Bettendorf, Davenport, East Moline, Moline and Rock Island, and the counties of Rock Island and Scott, issued proclamations recognizing the importance of small businesses in our communities.

Share feedback on DOGE through Red Tape Hotline; Feedback Portal

May 7, 2025

Chamber, Small Business Administration help you share feedback on DOGE to policymakers.

U.S. Chamber, QC Chamber host U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks for tax reform roundtable

April 23, 2025

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Quad Cities Chamber hosted U.S. Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01) for a roundtable discussion in Davenport with local business leaders on the need to extend pro-growth business tax provisions before portions of President Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) expire at the end of the year.

Chamber follows policy updates: Federal recap; the latest from the Illinois & Iowa legislatures

April 23, 2025

The Quad Cities Chamber continues to actively monitor and advocate for policies that support regional economic growth. We've provided a summary of recent activity in Washington, D.C., Illinois and Iowa - including updates on tax reform, housing, transit and economic development.

Washington D.C. Fly-In group photo in front of the Capitol

Advocating for the QC in D.C.

April 15, 2025

An intense week of floor debate and votes took place during the Quad Cities Chamber’s D.C. Fly-In. Business and community leaders from the Quad Cities descended into Washington D.C. to advocate for the QC region April 8-11.

Quad Cities Community Partnership attends International Downtown Association Fly-In

April 11, 2025

Kyle Carter, Vice President of Place Management for the Quad Cities Community Partnership, recently attended the International Downtown Association (IDA) Washington D.C. Fly-In to advocate for pro-downtown policies with other downtown Place Management organizations from all over the United States.

2025 Illinois Municipal Election recap

April 3, 2025

The 2025 Illinois municipal elections are over, and we at the Quad Cities Chamber look forward to continuing our advocacy efforts to make the Quad Cities a prosperous community where all can thrive. The Chamber congratulates each of the winners and looks forward to collaborating with both new and familiar faces in the coming years.

The latest on executive actions: What businesses need to know

April 2, 2025

A significant number of executive actions are being met with legal challenges and to make sure the Quad Cities region is up to date on current actions, we’re providing additional information on the items most likely to impact the business community.

Chamber reacts to East Moline State of the City Address

March 28, 2025

East Moline Mayor Reggie Freeman delivered the State of the City Address on Thursday, March 27. Mayor Freeman showcased the progress East Moline has made over the past year, and future goals that align with the Quad Cities Chamber’s Legislative Agenda.

Prepare for April 1 Illinois municipal elections

March 26, 2025

The Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce takes seriously our role in educating the business community on the positions of individuals seeking elected office. To help inform your vote, we crafted a survey with questions addressing some of the most significant policy issues facing the Quad Cities business community.

Illinois Funnel deadline extended; Chamber tracking priority legislation

March 25, 2025

The Chamber has been actively advocating on behalf of the local business community, monitoring various bills with significant impact. The committee deadline in Illinois was set for Friday, March 21, but the Senate has since extended that deadline to Friday, April 11.

Iowa legislature completes first funnel

March 12, 2025

The Iowa legislature completed its first funnel last Friday, March 7. The Chamber has been fighting for pro-business policy proposals, and many of them remain eligible for debate. Our priorities have focused on reorienting economic development incentives, providing for a pro-business tax structure and regulatory changes that drive efficiency changes for local government transit operations.

Chamber travels to Springfield to advocate for site-readiness funding, QC passenger rail

March 11, 2025

The Quad Cities Chamber, and more than twenty community leaders, traveled to Springfield to advocate for regional priorities. Discussions focused on securing site-readiness funding, advancing development incentives to align Iowa and Illinois and reinforcing the ongoing push for passenger rail service between Moline and Chicago.

Illinois legislators, QC Chamber push for passenger rail in the QC

March 4, 2025

The Quad Cities has been pursuing a rail connection between Chicago and Moline for more than a decade, with support from the QC Chamber. Recently, federal funds earmarked for the project were extended briefly through July 2026. The Chamber believes this is a "now or never" moment to bring the project to fruition.

Chamber reacts to Bettendorf State of the City Address

February 26, 2025

Bettendorf Mayor Bob Gallagher delivered the State of the City address on Wednesday, February 26. Mayor Gallagher’s address highlighted several accomplishments and policy goals which align with the Chamber’s Legislative Agenda.

Mid-session Legislative Update: The latest from Illinois, Iowa and D.C.

February 19, 2025

As February comes to a close, the Chamber is busy advocating for our business community in the Illinois and Iowa legislatures and on the federal level in Washington D.C. Below is our mid-session update.

Statement on Governor JB Pritzker’s Budget & State of the Address

February 19, 2025

On Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker presented the Budget & State of the State address to a joint session of the Illinois General Assembly, touching on issues that are top priorities for the Quad Cities business community.

Chamber travels to Iowa Capitol to advocate for pro-business, pro-growth policies

February 12, 2025

The Quad Cities Chamber traveled to Des Moines this week with over 20 member businesses and community leaders to advocate for pro-business, pro-growth policies. Chamber members advocated for a broad range of issues, including forthcoming legislation to reorient the State’s economic development incentives – one of the Chamber’s featured priorities aligning with our 2025 Legislative Agenda.

Advocating for you: Federal and State legislative updates

February 4, 2025

The Chamber is tracking important legislation on the federal and state levels. We encourage you to stay engaged and get involved through the Quad Cities Chamber’s Bill Tracker and our Action Alert Center.

Chamber responds to Moline State of the City address

February 4, 2025

Moline's 'practical progress, positive growth’ reflects the city’s many accomplishments in 2024, and sets the stage to tackle key issues in 2025 that align with the Quad Cities Chamber's legislative priorities.

Chamber Reaction to Rock Island State of the City Address

January 29, 2025

Rock Island Mayor Mike Thoms presented the State of the City address on Tuesday, January 28. Thoms focused on themes of community partnership and downtown revitalization, issues of high importance for the business community, and that align with the Chamber’s legislative goals.

Illinois & Iowa kick off legislative sessions

January 22, 2025

Iowa and Illinois kicked off their legislative sessions this month, with legislation and executive priorities beginning to be announced.

Chamber represents QC business community at Inaugural events

January 22, 2025

Ryan Sempf, Executive Director of Government Affairs for the Chamber, traveled to the nation’s Capitol as part of the events surrounding the inauguration of President Donald Trump. During the visit, the Chamber represented the Quad Cities business community at the “Midwest is the Best” inaugural gala and attended several informal receptions on Capitol Hill leading up to the inaugural ceremonies.

Statement on Iowa Gov. Reynolds’ Condition of the State Address

January 14, 2025

The Chamber is pleased to see Gov. Reynolds remarks on taxes, unemployment insurance, energy & infrastructure and child care during her address.

ONSHORE Act funding could be transformative for regional economic development

January 8, 2025

In December, the Senate passed legislation including authorization for the ONSHORE Act (Opportunities for Non-developed Sites to Have Opportunities to be Rehabilitated for Economic Development).The bill establishes the Critical Supply Chain Site Development program, which, once funded, will provide competitive grants to communities like the Quad Cities to invest in new shovel-ready sites. This funding could significantly enhance the region's economic development opportunities.

Fair Labor Overtime Salary Thresholds Act overturned

November 20, 2024

Fair Labor Overtime Salary Thresholds Act overturned. Federal judge in Texas prevents Act from going into effect.

Post election recap: Chamber discusses impact of election on business priorities

November 14, 2024

The 2024 election has led to a change in leadership in Washington and a continued status quo in Iowa, Illinois and our local governments. Many may have read significant news coverage about these races, but this recap is meant to localize that coverage and discuss the impact of the November election on business community priorities.

Chamber Advocates for you with Congressional candidates

October 30, 2024

Throughout October, the Quad Cities Chamber leveraged its relationships with elected leaders and candidates for federal office to create new experiences for its members and investors. The Chamber hosted Congress members Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R – IA), Eric Sorensen (D – IL), and candidate Christina Bohannan (D – IA) and Judge Joe McGraw (R – IL).

Chamber engages candidates in Q&A ahead of election

October 23, 2024

The Quad Cities Chamber has conducted a Q&A with candidates for the Illinois and Iowa House of Representatives, as well as the Rock Island and Scott County Board of Supervisors. Candidates answered key questions about their vision for a business-friendly environment, regulation, workforce retention and economic development in the Quad Cities. “Voting for your elected officials is the most important and impactful way business leaders can make their voices heard,” said Ryan Sempf, Executive Director of Government Affairs for the Chamber.

Chamber joins Illinois Manufacturer’s Association at annual D.C. Fly-In

October 2, 2024

Quad Cities Chamber Executive Director, Ryan Sempf joined the Illinois Manufacturer’s Association last week for their annual fly-in to Washington D.C. During the trip, Sempf met with nine different Illinois legislators, including staff from Senator Durbin’s office, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) and Darin LaHood (IL-16). The team also met with the White House staff for Manufacturing and Industrial Policy and staff from the Canadian Embassy.

Formation of Ports of Eastern Iowa Authority is significant milestone for our region

September 25, 2024

Six Eastern Iowa Counties jointly signed a resolution to form the Ports of Eastern Iowa Authority. The Authority will serve the Counties of Clinton, Dubuque, Jackson, Louisa, Muscatine and Scott, and will operate within the Mississippi River Ports of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois. This recognition by the federal government highlights the strategic importance of our region, which now ranks as one of the top 100 U.S. ports by freight tonnage.

Chamber seeks input for Public Policy Survey; conducts roundtables

September 5, 2024

Each fall, the Quad Cities Chamber asks members to complete a brief survey to gain insights on the issues facing the business community. The FY2025 Public Policy Survey aims to get to the heart of what the business community finds valuable and necessary in the areas of economic growth, quality of place, talent attraction and more. The deadline to complete the survey is September 20.

Annual Meeting celebrates successes of FY24

August 7, 2024

The Quad Cities Chamber celebrated major accomplishments over the last year including business expansion projects totaling $122.7 million in economic impact, launching the Generation Next program to…

Rock Island Arsenal Defense Alliance grows defense industry in the QC

July 10, 2024

Significant progress and developments have taken place over the past four years to enhance and grow the defense industry in the Quad Cities. The Rock Island Arsenal Defense Alliance (RIADA) advocated for RIA's designation as the Army’s Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence (AM COE) and securing the funds for the world’s largest metal 3D printer.

Davenport State of the City address echoes Chamber initiatives

June 11, 2024

Mayor Mike Matson gave Davenport’s annual State of the City Address, the final address from our Quad Cities communities. The mayor highlighted efforts to address fiscal strength, economic development, infrastructure and public safety.

Illinois End of Session Recap

June 5, 2024

The Illinois Legislative Session is now complete. Read a final recap and list of bills that passed or did not pass and the Chamber's position on them. Bills that passed that were supported by the Chamber included the River Edge Redevelopment Zone (RERZ) and Worker's Compensation Legislation.

Voice your opinion on the “Future of Gas”

June 4, 2024

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) initiated Future of Gas Proceedings earlier this year to analyze the role of natural gas in the state’s decarbonization goals and you have an opportunity to be a part of the process by commenting before the end of the day on Friday, June 7. These proceedings are meant to inform the ICC on topics that need further discussion and analysis by the Commission as they determine the future of natural gas consumption in Illinois.

Q&A with Lane & Waterman: Explaining the new rules of Overtime and Noncompetes

May 16, 2024

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued separate final rules on two major issues: Increases to Overtime Salary Thresholds (DOL) and Nullification of Noncompete Provisions (FTC). Attorneys from Lane & Waterman LLP provide guidance for an employer's next steps.

Chamber attends hearing to support Middle Income Housing Bill

May 8, 2024

On Wednesday May 1, the Quad Cities Chamber traveled to Springfield to testify in support of SB2922, the Middle Income Housing Bill, a bill drafted by the Chamber to create new incentives targeted at developers to support new housing development.

Iowa Legislative Session recap

May 1, 2024

The Iowa Legislative Session is now complete. Bills passed that were supported by the Quad Cities Chamber included: Income and Property Tax Reform, Work-based Learning and the MEGA (Major Economic Growth and Attraction) Program. Read more for a comprehensive list from the Session.

Final rulings made on Overtime Salary Thresholds and Nullification of Noncompete Provisions

April 25, 2024

On Tuesday, April 23, 2024 the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued separate final rules on two major issues: Increases to Overtime Salary Thresholds (DOL) and Nullification of Noncompete Provisions. We're providing information for business owners on actions that should be taken in the short term to understand the impact of these rules and adapt.

Iowa Senate passes Major Economic Growth and Attraction (MEGA) Program

April 17, 2024

On Tuesday, April 16, the Iowa Senate passed a compromised version of the Major Economic Growth and Attraction (MEGA) Program. This closes two years of work to create a new incentive to help Iowa compete for large-scale economic development projects, defined in the bill as more than $1 billion in investment on a certified site of at least 250 acres. The bill now awaits Governor Reynold’s signature and is expected to take effect quickly thereafter.

QC Chamber attends Illinois Chamber of Commerce Day on the Hill

April 17, 2024

The Quad Cities Chamber attended the Illinois Chamber of Commerce Day on the Hill last week and discussed key issues with Illinois legislators. Multiple issues were discussed including the proposal for the elimination of the tip credit for tipped employees, budget talks and economic development incentives for the state.

Deadlines approaching on key Illinois legislation

March 27, 2024

The Chamber has been actively promoting legislation in Illinois related to housing and development, and has engaged our local legislators on additional business-related topics including a number of workplace regulations that change the employer-employee relationship. Deadlines on legislation are quickly approaching and now is our opportunity to ensure we achieve a positive outcome this session.

Iowa legislature completes 2nd funnel

March 20, 2024

Last Friday, March 15, the Iowa Legislature completed its second funnel and has determined which bills it will focus on passing this session. In other news from the Legislature, the Iowa Revenue Estimating Conference released its Estimate of General Fund Receipts. This report sets the limit for spending unless it's for the Legislature's FY25 negotiations.

Chamber travels to Springfield to continue conversations with legislators

March 20, 2024

The Quad Cities Chamber traveled to the Illinois Capitol on Wednesday, March 20 for a day of impactful conversations with Illinois top legislators and our local members of the general assembly. Discussions included the need for new programs to support middle-income housing, overregulation of employer-employee relationships and the final push for passenger rail in our region.

Quad Cities Chamber statement on President Joe Biden’s State of the Union Address

March 8, 2024

President Joe Biden touched on issues impacting the Quad Cities in his State of the Union address, with both positive and negative impacts on our region. Site-readiness, workforce issues - including education and immigration - and the tax structure are all key concerns for the Quad Cities Chamber.

Chamber reacts to East Moline State of the City address

March 6, 2024

On Thursday, March 7, East Moline Mayor Reggie Freeman delivered the 2024 State of the City address, highlighting key accomplishments and priorities from the past year. East Moline's cohesive plan aligns with the Chamber's priorities, focusing on investments in downtown and riverfront amenities, as well as attracting new businesses to the area.

Chamber travels to Washington D.C. to advocate for federal legislative priorities

March 6, 2024

The Quad Cities Chamber delegation traveled to our nation’s capital this week to advocate for our federal legislative priorities meeting with U.S. Senate and House members over two days.

Chamber reacts to Moline State of the City address

February 28, 2024

In her State of the City Address, Mayor Rayapati spoke on the importance of having a balanced approach to governing that would ensure a bright future for the city. The Chamber supports the City's commitment to keeping property tax rates low, and is pleased to see its grant program succeed.

Iowa Legislature completes first funnel

February 22, 2024

Iowa's first legislative funnel is complete. Although surviving bills are not across the finish line, they have completed the first key step in becoming law. Read more about the bills the Chamber is tracking, and where they stand.

Chamber reacts to Governor Pritzker’s budget address

February 22, 2024

The Quad Cities Chamber applauds Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker for a continued commitment to balanced budgets, which creates stability and certainty for businesses and residents. The Chamber sees…

Chamber Travels to Iowa Capitol

February 7, 2024

The Quad Cities traveled in force to the Iowa Capitol this week with more than 20 business and community leaders from across the region. During the trip, members met with House and Senate leaders to promote our region's pro-growth policies and position it as a great place to do business.

Legislative Overview - January 2024

January 29, 2024

With the first month of the new year coming to a close, the Quad Cities Chamber has been busy at work in Des Moines, Springfield, and Washington D.C.

Chamber reacts to Rock Island State of City address

January 24, 2024

On Monday, Jan. 22, Rock Island Mayor Mike Thoms presented the 2024 State of the City address. Thoms highlighted many items the Chamber supports that align with our legislative agenda’s goals including: supporting small business; encouraging long-term planning for growth, supporting implementation of complete streets in the urban core; promoting redevelopment and revitalization of blighted neighborhoods

2024 Illinois Legislative Preview

January 18, 2024

The Illinois legislature reconvened on Tuesday, Jan. 16, and the Quad Cities Chamber was in Springfield meeting with legislators to promote our priorities. As we look at our policy goals, we focus on business and economic growth, quality of place, and workforce.

Dr. LaDrina Wilson’s farewell message

January 12, 2024

The Quad Cities Chamber gives a heartfelt thanks to Dr. LaDrina Wilson for leading our team over the past 18 months as the Chamber’s CEO. Hear from LaDrina as she bids us farewell and recaps her 18 months with the Chamber.