2023 Policy Summit

• Sen. Doug Larsen (District 34)
• Aaron Redenius, Doosan Bobcat North America
• Julie Voeck, NextEra Energy Resources

11:00 AM: Exploring Tourism from a Policy Standpoint
Currently, North Dakota’s tourism industry supports 2,900 businesses and supplements our economy with out-of-state dollars. From air travel, hotels, restaurants, to hunting services, golfing, and entertainment – there’s no denying that this is an important sector. However, now may be the time to discuss how this industry is supported. This discussion will take a wholistic look at the full economic opportunity – advancement opportunities, benefits to ancillary businesses, and regional need. Panelists will also consider aspects of workforce attraction and quality of life. Is it time to develop a public policy framework and how should we authorize or prioritize tax dollar authorization against free market values?

​MODERATOR: Suzie Kenner, Devils Lake Chamber & Tourism

• Rep. Mike Nathe (District 30)
• Brian Lunde, Advocates Inc. DC
• McKenzy Braaten, EPIC Companies

1:15PM: Utilizing Immigration as a Workforce Solution

In a recent poll of GNDC members, 55% of employers plan to expand or hire staff in the next year. Yet, workforce attraction remains a hurdle, crippling growth for businesses. Immigration offers a solution to employers across the state but can be difficult to navigate or advance. This panel discussion will dive into utilizing this untapped labor pool – the current opportunities, challenges, and associated impacts to businesses and communities. Additionally, panelists will discuss expectations of the Office of Legal Immigration, which was created this past legislative session to serve as a state resource for businesses. 

MODERATOR: Ron Ness - North Dakota Petroleum Council

PANELISTS:

• Todd Schaffer, MD - Sanford Health

• Mike Arntson - Cardinal IG

• Rep. Scott Louser (District 5)

2:30PM: Beyond Business: Engaging Civic Leadership

Public policy lays the foundation for the regulatory and bureaucratic landscape of our state. Whether at the local, state, or federal level, decisions made by civic leaders create ripple effects that impact constituents. Given our representative government, it is essential that the business community is at the table, guiding and engaging in conversations on the decisions that affect us all.
 
This panel will discuss hurdles to civic engagement, pipeline attraction, and priorities for the greater good. 
 
MODERATOR: Wayne Munson - Bismarck Sign Co. 

PANELISTS:

• Rep. Alisa Mitskog (District 25)

• Jeff Hruby - AE2S

• Sen. Dean Rummel (District 37) 

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3:30 PM: Federal Issues: A View from the Hill

Sponsored by Altria

Ron Eidshaug, Vice President and Chief of Staff, Government Affairs, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

As vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Government Affairs Division, RON EIDSHAUG helps oversee a team of 10 full-time Capitol Hill lobbyists. Eidshaug is a sought-after speaker providing an insider’s perspective of Congress. He appears

 at engagements with governors, senators, members of Congress, administration officials, and business leaders across the U.S. and speaks to a wide range of international audiences. Eidshaug has a unique ability to translate Washington-speak into language that business leaders can understand. [Full bio]
 

Refund policy: Refunds, minus credit card fees are available prior to September 1. After this date, you may send an alternate from the same organization to the event without additional charge. To request a cancellation or to make a change, please email amanda@NDChamber.com.