KENNER, La. – The Jefferson Chamber hosted its sold out 2023 Legislative Breakfast, presented by Gulf Coast Bank & Trust, on Tuesday, March 7 at the Hilton New Orleans Airport. Highlighting the annual event was a discussion featuring LABI President & CEO Stephen Waguespack and GNO, Inc. President & CEO Michael Hecht, and moderated by Jefferson Chamber President Ruth Lawson, on economic development in Louisiana and the challenges and opportunities for the business community in the upcoming state legislative session.
Boasting a crowd of 300 attendees, the discussion between Waguespack and Hecht focused on a wide range of subjects including education and workforce development, tax reform, and the gubernatorial election in November.
The program also featured a “Two Minute Take” passing of the mic which is extended to members of the Jefferson Delegation to speak briefly on their 2023 priorities. Senator Kirk Talbot, Rep. John Illg Jr., Rep. Laurie Schlegel, Rep. Rodney Lyons, Rep. Polly Thomas, and Rep. Debbie Villio each provided commentary during the segment.
As the state’s Chamber of Commerce and manufacturing association, LABI represents more than 2,000 businesses of every size, in every region and sector. As the president of LABI since 2013, Stephen has worked to enhance the association’s focus on federal issues, research, policy, as well as member engagement through technological advancements.
Greater New Orleans, Inc. is the economic development organization for southeast Louisiana. Its mission falls broadly into two categories: business development – attracting and growing businesses – and product development – creating better business conditions. Under Michael’s leadership, GNO, Inc. was named the No. 2 economic development organization in the United States by Business Facilities magazine.
Proceeds from the event support the Jefferson Chamber’s efforts in pro-business advocacy and quality of life initiatives.
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About the Jefferson Chamber:
The Jefferson Chamber has been the leading voice in Jefferson Parish’s business community for over 25 years. As a non-profit, membership-driven organization, the Chamber is an effective advocate for small and large businesses at the local, state and federal levels. The Chamber’s mission is to work for the advancement of the business community; to enhance the economic, civic and cultural environment; and to improve the quality of life in Jefferson Parish. The Jefferson Chamber is Five-Star Accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and was awarded the 2013, 2015, and 2019 Chamber of the Year Award by the Louisiana Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives in the Large Chamber Category. For more information about the Jefferson Chamber, visit www.jeffersonchamber.org, follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
