Advocacy
The Chamber aims to be a lasting advocate and a respected voice that bridges business, government and community. While the Chamber is not a Political Action Committee (PAC) and does not endorse candidates or lobby for specific legislation, our Government Relations initiatives do play a crucial role in connecting members with information, officials and opportunities to stay informed and engaged in the legislative process.

The Chamber’s Legislative Affairs Council is central to these efforts. Each Tennessee legislative session, the Council reviews over 1300 pieces of state legislation, holds weekly conference calls with Northeast Tennessee legislators and collaborates with the Kingsport Chamber and Greene County Partnership on legislative priorities. Chamber staff also participate in statewide and national programs, including the Tennessee Chamber’s Day on the Hill and DC Fly-In.

Through active engagement with local, state and federal officials, the Chamber’s Government Relations initiatives ensure that the interests of our members are represented and supported.

Applications for The Chamber’s Legislative Affairs Council are now open and will close on December 5.

To apply please submit the application below:

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Legislative Affairs Council Application 2026

The Johnson City Chamber of Commerce's Legislative Affairs Council is a working group that reviews and advocates for business-positive legislation during the TN General Assembly's legislative session. This council meets 4 times a year (3 times during Session, once at the end of the year). Council members also participates in weekly Zoom calls with the NE TN delegation of legislators.

This is a NON-PARTISAN council that focuses on business issues only.

Name *

First

Last

Email *

Race *

• White
• Black or African American
• American Indian or Alaska Native
• Asian
• Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander
• Hispanic/Latinx
• Other

Company *

Job Title *

Is your company a Chamber member? *

• Yes
• No

Council seats are open to Chamber members only.

This council meets 4 times a year (3 times during Session, once at the end of the year). Council members also participates in weekly Zoom calls with the NE TN delegation of legislators. Council members are expected to attend at least 75% of meetings and events. With this, can you commit to the time requirements of this council? *

What is your goal for joining this council? *

What value can you add to this council? *

What organizations or community groups are you a part of? *

I understand the time commitment for the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce Legislative Affairs Council and pledge that I will serve in the required capacity. I understand this is a member-only opportunity and if I leave my company, my seat on the council will be forfeited. I also understand this is a NON-PARTISAN Government Relations Council and commit to putting personal political beliefs aside for the mission of the Chamber. *

• I Understand

Submit

Akiah Highsmith
Griffith McDaniel LLP

Representative Diana Harshbarger (TN-01) – R

Washington County Mayor Joe Grandy – R

Jonesborough Mayor/Board of Aldermen

County Elected Offices

Our Government Relations efforts and programs are made possible by our Government Relations Partner Sponsors