Public Policy & NGOs
Here's a look at documents from public policy and non-governmental organizations
Featured Stories
Study Identifies Signature in Blood to Better Predict Type 2 Diabetes Risk
BRONX, New York, Jan. 15 -- The Albert Einstein College of Medicine issued the following news release:
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New Study Identifies Signature in Blood to Better Predict Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Researchers from Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Mass General Brigham have identified molecular changes associated with type 2 diabetes risk, reflecting contributions from genetics, diet, and lifestyle factors, which could pave the way for more effective prevention and intervention strategies. Their results, developed through blood samples from more than 20,000 people, are published today in Nature
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BRONX, New York, Jan. 15 -- The Albert Einstein College of Medicine issued the following news release:
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New Study Identifies Signature in Blood to Better Predict Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Researchers from Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Mass General Brigham have identified molecular changes associated with type 2 diabetes risk, reflecting contributions from genetics, diet, and lifestyle factors, which could pave the way for more effective prevention and intervention strategies. Their results, developed through blood samples from more than 20,000 people, are published today in NatureMedicine.
"Our study is the largest and most comprehensive investigation of blood metabolites, small molecules found in the blood, associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes that integrates genomic and diet and lifestyle data from a wide range of people," said Qibin Qi, Ph.D., senior and co-corresponding author, professor of epidemiology & population health and associate director of the Center for Population Cohorts in the department of epidemiology & population health at Einstein. "A better understanding of the biological pathways behind this disease can help drive the development of new treatments."
The researchers tracked 23,634 individuals in 10 cohorts who were initially free of type 2 diabetes, some with up to 26 years of follow-up. The team analyzed 469 metabolites in blood samples, as well as genetic, diet, and lifestyle data, to see how they relate to risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Of the metabolites examined, 235 were found to be associated with a higher or lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, 67 of which were new discoveries.
"Interestingly, we found that diet and lifestyle factors may have a stronger influence on metabolites linked to type 2 diabetes than on metabolites not associated with the disease," said first and co-corresponding author Jun Li, M.D., Ph.D., assistant professor of medicine and associate epidemiologist in the Mass General Brigham Department of Medicine. Li is also an assistant professor in the Department of Nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. "This is especially true for obesity, physical activity, and intake of certain foods and beverages such as red meat, vegetables, sugary drinks, and coffee or tea. Increasing evidence suggests that these dietary and lifestyle factors are associated with greater or lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Our study revealed that specific metabolites may act as potential mediators, linking these factors with type 2 diabetes risk."
The metabolites associated with type 2 diabetes were also found to be genetically linked to clinical traits and tissue types that are relevant to the disease. Furthermore, the team developed a unique signature of 44 metabolites that improved prediction of future risk of type 2 diabetes.
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"A better understanding of the biological pathways behind this disease can help drive the development of new treatments."
- Qibin Qi, Ph.D.
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"While these new findings offer important insights, additional experimental studies and clinical trials are needed to confirm the causality of these associations and clarify how these metabolic pathways contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes," said Dr. Qi.
The collaborative research team plans to continue investigating why people develop diabetes through different biological pathways, with the goal of helping develop more targeted prevention strategies for individuals at high risk.
"Our findings lay the groundwork for a deeper understanding of type 2 diabetes and may help inform the development of precision preventive strategies targeting specific metabolic pathways," said Dr. Li.
In addition to Dr. Qi, Einstein authors include Kai Luo, Chengyong Jia, and Robert C. Kaplan. In addition to Dr. Li, Mass General Brigham authors include Jie Hu, Zhendong Mei, Shilpa N. Bhupathiraju, A. Heather Eliassen, JoAnn E. Manson, Jose C. Florez, Miguel Angel Martinez-Gonzalez, Kathryn M. Rexrode, James B. Meigs, and Frank B. Hu. Additional authors include Huan Yun, Xingyan Wang, Marta Guasch-Ferre, Xikun Han, Buu Truong, Jordi Merino, Miguel Ruiz-Canela, Casey M. Rebholz, Eun Hye Moon, Taryn Alkis, Guning Liu, Jie Yao, Xiyuan Zhang, Bianca C. Porneala, Jordi Salas-Salvado, Thomas J. Wang, Josee Dupuis, Elizabeth Selvin, Xiuqing Guo, Jennifer A. Brody, Yongmei Liu, Alexis C. Wood, Kari E. North, Su Yon Jung, Ching-Ti Liu, Nona Sotoodehnia, Simin Liu, Lesley F. Tinker, Robert E. Gerszten, Clary B. Clish, Liming Liang, Rozenn N. Lemaitre, Katherine L. Tucker, Stephen S. Rich, Jerome I. Rotter, Eric Boerwinkle, and Bing Yu.
The current study is supported by grants from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) including R01DK119268 and R00DK122128. Other funding sources for this study include R01HL060712, R01HL170904, R01HL136266, and HHSN268201600034I (contract to the Broad Institute) from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI); R01DK126698, R01DK081572, U01DK140761, R01DK134672, R01DK120870, and the New York Regional Center for Diabetes Translation Research (P30DK111022) from NIDDK; R01AG085320 from National Institute on Aging; and a cooperative agreement UM1HG008898 from the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI).
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Original text here: https://montefioreeinstein.org/news/2026/01/14/new-study-identifies-signature-blood-better-predict-type-2-diabetes-risk
[Category: Health Care]
RWJBH Expert on Preventing Cervical Cancer: Why Early Detection and Vaccination Matter in 2026
NEW BRUNSWICK, New Jersey, Jan. 15 -- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey issued the following news:
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RWJBH Expert on Preventing Cervical Cancer: Why Early Detection and Vaccination Matter in 2026
Each year in the United States, an estimated 13,360 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and about 4,320 women die from the disease. Although cervical cancer rates have steadily declined thanks to screening and vaccination, January's Cervical Health Awareness Month underscores the continued need for proactive care.
Cervical cancer is most commonly diagnosed between ages 35 and 64, with
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NEW BRUNSWICK, New Jersey, Jan. 15 -- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey issued the following news:
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RWJBH Expert on Preventing Cervical Cancer: Why Early Detection and Vaccination Matter in 2026
Each year in the United States, an estimated 13,360 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and about 4,320 women die from the disease. Although cervical cancer rates have steadily declined thanks to screening and vaccination, January's Cervical Health Awareness Month underscores the continued need for proactive care.
Cervical cancer is most commonly diagnosed between ages 35 and 64, withthe average age around 50. Despite strong evidence supporting screening, more than half of new cases occur in individuals who have never been screened or are rarely screened.
The Role of HPV Vaccination
Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The HPV vaccine, recommended for preteens but approved for adults up to age 45, remains the most effective tool for preventing HPV-related cancers.
"While most HPV infections clear naturally, certain high-risk strains can progress to cancer. Vaccination offers powerful first-line protection," says Dr. Ruth Stephenson, gynecologic oncologist at Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health.
According to the CDC, HPV is linked to over 47,000 cancer cases each year in the U.S.
Advancements in Screening Methods
The two tests used to prevent or detect cervical cancer early are the Pap test and the HPV test. The Pap test looks for precancerous cell changes on the cervix, while the HPV test checks for the virus that can cause those changes. Both tests are done in a doctor's office or clinic.
Ages 21-29
You should begin receiving Pap tests at age 21. If your Pap test result is normal, your doctor may recommend waiting three years until your next test.
Ages 30-65
Talk with your doctor about which screening option is best for you. Options include:
* HPV test only (primary HPV testing): If normal, you may be able to wait five years for your next screening.
* Co-testing (HPV test + Pap test): If both results are normal, you may be able to wait five years for your next screening.
* Pap test only: If normal, you may be able to wait three years for your next Pap test.
Regardless of which option you choose, it is important to continue routine care and follow your doctor's recommendations. Early detection of cervical cell changes gives the best chance of preventing cervical cancer.
Emerging Treatments & The Power of Prevention
Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health are leading research that is improving treatment outcomes for individuals with HPV-related cancers. Two recent HPV-related studies led by Dr. Christian Hinrichs highlight the potential of novel T cell therapies to achieve long-lasting remission and complete tumor regression in patients with advanced epithelial cancers.
In one study, researchers reported encouraging interim results from a Phase II clinical trial evaluating genetically engineered T cell receptor (TCR)-T cells designed to target the HPV16 E7 oncoprotein (E7 T cells) in patients with metastatic HPV-associated cancers. The therapy was generally well tolerated and led to substantial tumor shrinkage in 6 of 10 patients, including durable complete responses in two patients lasting over 11 months.
In a second study, investigators reported the extraordinary finding that two patients with metastatic cervical cancer remain in complete remission 10 years after receiving a single infusion of tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy, providing strong evidence that cellular therapy can induce durable, potentially curative responses in epithelial cancers. This work highlights emerging options for patients diagnosed at more advanced stages who have exhausted all other treatments.
Decades of progress in cervical cancer have also significantly reduced both incidence and deaths, largely because of increased screening and HPV vaccination rates in women ages 30 to 44. Persistent disparities among older and underserved populations make it clear that staying up to date on screening remains essential throughout adulthood.
RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute encourage all individuals to speak with their providers and stay current with recommended screening.
Learn more about the Gynecologic Oncology Program at Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health.
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Original text here: https://cinj.org/rwjbh-expert-preventing-cervical-cancer-why-early-detection-and-vaccination-matter-2026
[Category: Health Care]
Progress Under Siege: Colorado Progressives Kick Off 2026 Legislative Session With Hope, Trepidation
DENVER, Colorado, Jan. 15 -- ProgressNow Colorado, an advocacy organization, issued the following news release:
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Progress Under Siege: Colorado Progressives Kick Off 2026 Legislative Session With Hope, Trepidation
As the Seventy-fifth Colorado General Assembly kicked off its second regular session today, ProgressNow Colorado, the state's largest multi-issue progressive advocacy organization, welcomed lawmakers back to the People's House to hammer out another ambitious legislative agenda promoting affordability, fairness, and equal opportunity, while making the hard choices imposed on our
... Show Full Article
DENVER, Colorado, Jan. 15 -- ProgressNow Colorado, an advocacy organization, issued the following news release:
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Progress Under Siege: Colorado Progressives Kick Off 2026 Legislative Session With Hope, Trepidation
As the Seventy-fifth Colorado General Assembly kicked off its second regular session today, ProgressNow Colorado, the state's largest multi-issue progressive advocacy organization, welcomed lawmakers back to the People's House to hammer out another ambitious legislative agenda promoting affordability, fairness, and equal opportunity, while making the hard choices imposed on ourstate by the Trump administration and far-right Republicans in Washington, D.C.
"Every year in Colorado begins with the hope that our progressive majority will continue to deliver improvements that Colorado families feel in their daily lives," said ProgressNow Colorado executive director Sara Loflin. "From affordable housing and transportation to making renewable energy more accessible and affordable than ever before, there are some incredible opportunities this year to help Coloradans live happier, safer, and more productive lives. We can make our communities safer with a stronger 'red flag' law, and keep promises to our kids by once again fully funding public education without the so-called 'BS Factor.'"
"President Trump's radical right agenda in Washington has forced painful cuts to vital services that Coloradans don't support and never voted for," said Loflin. "Congressman Gabe Evans' vote to pass the 'Big Horrible Bill' blew a billion-dollar hole in Colorado's budget for his former colleagues to deal with. Trump's illegal retaliation campaign against our state for challenging his eligibility to run as an insurrectionist and delivering justice to convicted felon Tina Peters has had Colorado lawmakers' job of balancing the state budget even harder. Thanks to Trump, Gabe Evans, and gutless local politicians like 'Both Ways Barb' Kirkmeyer who make continuous excuses for Trump, progressive lawmakers are focused on helping Colorado working families-while trying to reduce the damage coming from Washington."
"Hard choices await our lawmakers this year in Colorado, and this is exactly why elections matter," said Loflin. "In 2026, hope lies in accountability at the ballot box, including a graduated income tax measure that could finally break the fiscal chokehold imposed on our state decades ago. Until then, the task is to protect Colorado from Trump and his minions while moving the progressive agenda forward everywhere we can afford to."
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Original text here: https://progressnow.co/2026/01/14/progress-under-siege-colorado-progressives-kick-off-2026-legislative-session-with-hope-trepidation
[Category: Sociological]
Pitt Neurologists Use AI to Close Diagnostic Gaps in Seizure Care
PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania, Jan. 15 -- The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center issued the following news release:
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Pitt Neurologists Use AI to Close Diagnostic Gaps in Seizure Care
Clinician-scientists at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have developed an artificial intelligence (AI) tool that significantly improves diagnostic accuracy for functional seizures--a condition often misdiagnosed as epilepsy. The findings, published today in Epilepsia, demonstrate how AI can support clinicians, whose expertise is not neurology, by flagging complex cases for further review, potentially
... Show Full Article
PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania, Jan. 15 -- The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center issued the following news release:
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Pitt Neurologists Use AI to Close Diagnostic Gaps in Seizure Care
Clinician-scientists at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have developed an artificial intelligence (AI) tool that significantly improves diagnostic accuracy for functional seizures--a condition often misdiagnosed as epilepsy. The findings, published today in Epilepsia, demonstrate how AI can support clinicians, whose expertise is not neurology, by flagging complex cases for further review, potentiallyreducing unnecessary medication use, and improving patient safety and access to expert diagnostic care.
"Distinguishing functional from epileptic seizures is hard, even for highly-trained clinicians. Because most seizures are epileptic, clinicians start there--but the remaining cases represent a critical gap in care," said lead author Wesley Kerr, M.D., Ph.D., assistant professor of neurology and bioinformatics at Pitt and the lead epileptologist of the UPMC Functional Neurological Disorders program. "AI isn't to replace clinicians, it's to expand our impact by helping us identify complex cases sooner and make care more compassionate and personal."
Functional seizures affect an estimated 10% of people with seizures. Unlike epileptic seizures, which are triggered by electrical activity in the brain and can be managed with appropriately selected medications or surgery, functional seizures result from a combination of biological, psychological and social factors. Because they are not caused by abnormal brain electrical activity, antiseizure medications do not work. Instead, treatments focus on neurobehavioral therapy, helping patients and clinicians understand the underlying stressors that push the body into "panic mode."
"Functional seizures are 'panic without panic', the body's response to being overwhelmed," said Kerr. "Your body is having a panic attack, but you don't feel it because your brain is protecting you from that sensation. That hidden stress can erupt as a seizure."
To understand whether AI tools can effectively support clinician decision-making, the researchers presented 117 anonymized patient cases to 163 reviewers from various backgrounds and levels of experience, from non-clinicians, medical students and non-neurology physicians to expert epileptologists. Each reviewer assessed a randomized subset of cases, and their accuracy was measured before and after AI assistance.
The analysis showed that the AI tool improved diagnostic accuracy for 66% of reviewers. Among average and AI-literate users, accuracy in diagnosing functional seizures improved by nearly 20%. Notably, expert clinicians, including most epileptologists, did not show significant improvement, as the AI largely replicated their existing knowledge.
"AI is not going to make experts any better, but it can make sure that even clinicians who've never heard of functional seizures have a tool that says, 'Think about this.' That's how we improve care for everyone, no matter where they live," said Kerr.
As an immediate next step in this research, Kerr is exploring ways to incorporate AI-assisted analysis of seizures recorded on video, potentially reducing the need for inpatient monitoring, which is the current gold standard to confirm seizure origins.
Kerr and his team are now moving toward their goal of enabling automated monitoring and flagging of potential functional seizure cases within the patient's health chart. Paired with clinical oversight and ethical considerations, the scientists hope the additional AI-assisted checkpoint will identify people who may benefit from better understanding of their seizures and assist clinicians in identifying the right medication and non-medication treatments more quickly and accurately. They note that reducing medications that do not treat the cause of seizures can be particularly important for pregnant, older and medically complex patients.
To learn more about this research and seizure care at UPMC, visit:
Functional (Dissociative) Seizures - Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)
FND Hope - FND Hope International
The UPMC Comprehensive Epilepsy Center - Neurology | Pittsburgh, PA
University of Pittsburgh Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (UPCEC) | Department of Neurology
Epilepsy | Department of Neurology
Epilepsy and Seizures | National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Functional Neurologic Disorder | National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Patients who are looking to understand if their seizures might be functional should reach out to UPMC Epilepsy for an initial consultation:
New Patient Epilepsy Consultation - Pittsburgh, PA - Epilepsy Neurology - Book Appointment
Other authors of this research include Katherine McFarlane, M.S., James Castellano, M.D., Ph.D., Anto Bagic, M.D.,Rachna Reddy, Sarah Yaghoubi, M.D., Laura Kirkpatrick, M.D., Danielle Carns, Psy.D., Zongqi Xia, M.D., Ph.D., and Page Pennell, M.D., all of Pitt.
This research was supported by the the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (K23NS135134, R25NS065723, R25NS089450, U24NS107158, R01NS033310, P20NS080131, T32GM08042, T90DA022768, R90DA022768, R90DA023422, K12NS098482), the American Academy of Neurology, the American Brain Foundation, the Epilepsy Foundation, the American Epilepsy Society, the Epilepsy Study Consortium, William M. Keck Foundation and the Christina Louise George Trust.
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Original text here: https://www.upmc.com/media/news/011426-seizure-care
[Category: Health Care]
League of Conservation Voters: EPA's Clean Water Act proposal limits state and Tribal ability to protect waters from pollution
WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 [Category: Environment] -- The League of Conservation Voters posted the following news release:
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EPA's Clean Water Act proposal limits state and Tribal ability to protect waters from pollution
In response to the Trump EPA's newest proposed rule on Section 401 of the Clean Water Act that would limit states and Tribal authority to protect their waters from damaging pipelines and other projects, the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) issued the following statement from Healthy Communities Government Affairs Advocate Lizzy Duncan:
"The Trump administration has proven
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 [Category: Environment] -- The League of Conservation Voters posted the following news release:
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EPA's Clean Water Act proposal limits state and Tribal ability to protect waters from pollution
In response to the Trump EPA's newest proposed rule on Section 401 of the Clean Water Act that would limit states and Tribal authority to protect their waters from damaging pipelines and other projects, the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) issued the following statement from Healthy Communities Government Affairs Advocate Lizzy Duncan:
"The Trump administration has proventime and time again that they will say and do whatever it takes to eliminate environmental safeguards and pad the pockets of their polluter allies at the expense of the health and safety of our communities. This latest proposal would strip states and Tribes of their right to protect their waterways from health harming pollution. The proposal is especially galling after the administration pointed to states' rights as a key reason to undermine the Waters of the United States' rule. This administration's continued assault on the Clean Water Act threatens our communities and economic growth. It will make our waters dirtier and families sicker at a time when healthcare costs are already going up for millions. Protecting access to clean water is popular among families and communities across the country and communities need stronger clean water safeguards, instead of handouts to corporate polluters. The Trump administration should abandon this horrible proposal."
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Original text here: https://www.lcv.org/media-center/epas-clean-water-act-proposal-limits-state-and-tribal-ability-to-protect-waters-from-pollution/
Iran: Monitoring Escalating Risks to Civilians and Health Systems
WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 -- Project HOPE, an international health and humanitarian aid non-governmental organization, issued the following news release:
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Iran: Monitoring Escalating Risks to Civilians and Health Systems
Project HOPE is closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation in Iran, with deep concern for the safety, health, and well-being of civilians. According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), over 2,403 protestors have been killed, including 12 children, in addition to 18,434 arrests and 1,134 severe injuries amid ongoing unrest. These figures are likely underreported
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 -- Project HOPE, an international health and humanitarian aid non-governmental organization, issued the following news release:
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Iran: Monitoring Escalating Risks to Civilians and Health Systems
Project HOPE is closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation in Iran, with deep concern for the safety, health, and well-being of civilians. According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), over 2,403 protestors have been killed, including 12 children, in addition to 18,434 arrests and 1,134 severe injuries amid ongoing unrest. These figures are likely underreporteddue to severe restrictions on information within Iran, including widespread internet and communications blackouts, which have significantly limited independent verification and access to emergency services.
Statement from Project HOPE's CEO, Rabih Torbay:
"In moments of uncertainty and escalating risk, it is the civilians and health systems that bear the greatest burden. We are deeply concerned about the continued crackdown on protesters and the compounding effects this has on civilian safety, access to health care, and the ability of humanitarian actors to assess and respond to urgent needs. We call for the protection of civilians and for sustained humanitarian access in accordance with international humanitarian law.
"We are actively engaging with partners and assessing the potential humanitarian and health impacts of the violence, including disruptions to health care and constraints on information and movement. We stand ready to support emergency response efforts should needs arise, working alongside local partners and the international humanitarian community. At this time, our focus remains on preparedness and contingency planning, ensuring we are positioned to respond quickly and effectively as the situation develops.
"Our mission is to save lives, especially in times of crisis, and we stand ready to respond with lifesaving humanitarian and health support, guided by our commitment to neutrality, impartiality, and humanity."
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Original text here: https://www.projecthope.org/news-stories/press-release/iran-monitoring-escalating-risks-to-civilians-and-health-systems/
Florida Chamber of Commerce Releases 2026 Where We Stand Legislative Agenda Focused on Furthering Job Creation and Florida's Long-Term Economic Competitiveness
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Jan. 15 -- The Florida Chamber of Commerce issued the following news on Jan. 14, 2026:
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Florida Chamber of Commerce Releases 2026 Where We Stand Legislative Agenda Focused on Furthering Job Creation and Florida's Long-Term Economic Competitiveness
Reflects business-led priorities to support continued economic growth opportunities and global competitiveness
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The Florida Chamber of Commerce (Florida Chamber) today announced the release of 2026 Where We Stand, its annual jobs and competitiveness agenda developed in collaboration with job creators, local chambers of
... Show Full Article
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Jan. 15 -- The Florida Chamber of Commerce issued the following news on Jan. 14, 2026:
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Florida Chamber of Commerce Releases 2026 Where We Stand Legislative Agenda Focused on Furthering Job Creation and Florida's Long-Term Economic Competitiveness
Reflects business-led priorities to support continued economic growth opportunities and global competitiveness
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The Florida Chamber of Commerce (Florida Chamber) today announced the release of 2026 Where We Stand, its annual jobs and competitiveness agenda developed in collaboration with job creators, local chambers ofcommerce, key policymakers, leading business trade groups and industry leaders across Florida. The agenda unites the business community around priorities for the 2026 legislative session and reflects the Florida Chamber's long-term focus on continued national leadership, job creation, economic growth, and global competitiveness.
The 2026 Where We Stand was released during day one of the Florida Chamber's 2026 Legislative Fly-In held in Tallahassee in conjunction with the start of the legislative session and aligns state policy priorities with the Florida 2030 Blueprint. Together, these priorities provide a roadmap to continue strengthening Florida's economy while benefiting communities, families and local businesses in every community in Florida. The agenda also reinforces the Florida Chamber's commitment to making Florida's tax climate the best in the nation while advocating for further tax reductions and guarding against tax increases or shifts onto local businesses.
"Florida's continued success is driven by a unified business community that believes in free enterprise and has a long-term vision for Florida's economic competitiveness," said David Sweeney, Chairman of the board for RS&H and the Florida Chamber of Commerce. "The Florida Chamber's 2026 Where We Stand agenda keeps Florida on the path where businesses can continue to grow, families can prosper and opportunity reaches every zip code."
The agenda draws on data-driven research from the Florida Chamber Foundation and direct input from businesses of every size in every industry from Pensacola to Key West. It focuses on policies that support a strong business climate, prepare Florida's current and future workforce and position the state for sustained economic success and growth.
"Florida's growth did not happen by chance, and maintaining our competitive edge requires thoughtful policy choices that put the long-term ahead of the short-term and ensuring we don't take any steps backward," said Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce. "With 2026 Where We Stand, the Florida Chamber remains laser-focused on the Florida 2030 Blueprint goal of becoming a top 10 global economy."
Top priorities outlined in the 2026 Where We Stand that advance the Florida 2030 Blueprint goals include:
* Strengthening Florida's Free Enterprise System: Advancing policies that support job creation, economic growth, and long term competitiveness and limit government intrusion in the marketplace.
* Continued Lawsuit Abuse Reforms and Protecting the 2023 Reforms: Continuing Florida's progress in 2023 by advancing further lawsuit abuse reforms and reducing cost drivers that impact families and businesses.
* Insuring Florida's Future: Continuing the stabilization of Florida's insurance markets by protecting the significant reforms already made and encouraging additional competition in the market.
* Expanding Affordable Workforce Housing Options: Supporting policies that continue to increase affordable, attainable workforce housing options at all income levels across Florida.
* Building Florida's Talent Pipeline: Strengthening Pre-K-post-secondary education, skills training, and work based career and technical learning to meet Florida's current and future workforce demand.
* Investing in Infrastructure for a Growing State: Supporting infrastructure investments that keep pace with the next 2.5 million Floridians, 40 million additional visitors, and 2.1 million new drivers expected by 2030.
* Advancing Wellness and Mental Health Outcomes: Improving outcomes and access to quality healthcare and behavioral health services to support a healthy, productive workforce.
* Protecting Florida's Long Term Competitiveness: Promoting responsible fiscal policy, regulatory certainty, and a stable and competitive business climate.
Through the 2026 Where We Stand, the Florida Chamber continues its work to unite the business community around policies that support job growth, strengthen communities and expand economic opportunity across Florida.
The full 2026 Where We Stand agenda is available online here (https://www.flchamber.com/wws2026).
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Original text here: https://www.flchamber.com/florida-chamber-of-commerce-releases-2026-where-we-stand-legislative-agenda-focused-on-furthering-job-creation-and-floridas-long-term-economic-competitiveness/
[Category: Business]
