To support existing member businesses and create an environment conducive for recruiting new ones, the Madison County Chamber of Commerce recognizes that agriculture, education, economic and workforce development, and intergovernmental collaboration are the primary state and local legislative issues that have the greatest impact on the local business community.

The 2026 Local and State Legislative Priority Issues were created from feedback from membership, reviewed by the Government Affairs Committee, and approved by the Chamber Board of Directors in November of 2025.

Agricultural Industry Promotions

Broader Support of the Georgia Farmland Conservation Fund

The Chamber strongly supports our agriculture industry and farmers. Georgia’s agricultural landscape continues to face significant pressure, with farmland steadily decreasing. In 2025, the Georgia Farmland Conservation Fund received increased attention and discussions emerged about expanding its reach to rural communities. The Chamber acknowledges these discussions and remains attentive to potential outcomes that may affect counties like Madison, where agriculture is a critical economic driver. We will continue to monitor how landowners and producers might access resources that preserve farmland and sustain agriculture, Georgia’s top industry.

Encouragement of a Madison County Agricultural Advisement Committee

The Chamber supports a strong voice for agriculture as it relates to decision-making at the local level. The Chamber is aware of ongoing conversations about how agriculture can continue to play a meaningful role in community growth and planning. One concept under discussion has been the creation of a Madison County Agricultural Advisement Committee to provide guidance to the Board of Commissioners. The Chamber will remain engaged in these conversations, recognizing the importance of considering agricultural perspectives in discussions of county planning, funding opportunities, and community engagement.

Mental Health Resource Access for Students

Mental Health Support for Students and Families

The Chamber strongly supports our School System in its mission to graduate independent, productive citizens, as that leads to a capable workforce for our businesses. The Chamber recognizes the growing importance of mental health for students and their families, and the challenges many face in accessing needed services. Building on our 2025 priority focused on emotional and mental safety in schools, we acknowledge ongoing initiatives and discussions aimed at expanding mental health resources in our community. The Chamber will continue to stay engaged in conversations around strategies that may enhance access to qualified professionals in schools and the broader community.

Economic and Workforce Development

Business Licensing through the Secretary of State’s Office

The Chamber supports efforts to modernize and streamline business licensing processes at the state level. In 2025, many Madison County businesses continued to report delays in license processing. While the Secretary of State’s office has begun reviewing internal systems, challenges remain. The Chamber calls for continued review and modernization of licensing processes, recognizing the significant impact this has on local business operations.

Affordable Child Care and Workforce Participation

The Chamber strongly supports solutions that help working families remain active in the labor force. The lack of access to affordable child care continues to be identified by employers as a major barrier to workforce participation. The 2025 Senate Study Committee on Access to Affordable Child Care issued key recommendations that initiated conversations about employer and community-based partnerships. The Chamber acknowledges these developments and remains engaged with regional partners to explore innovative approaches that may help address this ongoing challenge.

Intergovernmental Collaboration

Collaboration Among Local Governments

The Chamber supports strong collaboration among local governments and recognizes the importance of unified planning for growth. The Chamber values the inclusive, county-wide comprehensive planning process that resulted in the adoption of the 2022–2042 Comprehensive Plan. We recognize this plan as the guiding document for growth and development in Madison County and will remain engaged with government partners as they work on implementation, ensuring that the business community remains part of the conversation.

Infrastructure

The Chamber supports strategic investments in infrastructure that align with long-term business and workforce needs. Modernizing Madison County’s infrastructure, including broadband, water, sewer, and roads, remains a central issue for economic growth. In 2025, the county separated the Water Department from the IDBA, creating opportunities for each entity to focus more directly on its priorities. The Chamber acknowledges this change and will continue to facilitate business community input on infrastructure projects. As the county hires an Economic Developer, we look forward to participating in discussions that align infrastructure investments with sustainable economic and workforce goals.

Workforce and Economic Strategy

Fostering a MADICO MADE Workforce

The Chamber strongly supports workforce programs that build leadership, entrepreneurship, and employability skills in young people. The Chamber seeks to remain engaged in discussions about policies that affect the business community, ensuring members are informed and able to provide input when changes are proposed. We also recognize the value of community-based workforce initiatives, such as the MADICO FLEX program, that prepare young professionals with skills and leadership experience. The Chamber will continue to highlight and participate in efforts that prepare Madison County’s next generation of workers.

Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

The Chamber supports a unified, data-driven approach to economic development. Per the Madison County Community Work Program in the Comprehensive Plan, pages 70–76, the Chamber acknowledges ongoing efforts by the IDBA, the BOC, and the Cities to develop a coordinated and comprehensive economic development strategy. We will remain engaged in these discussions and ensure the business community has a seat at the table as this work progresses.