The Chamber’s Business Advocacy Council serves as the region’s advocate for business at the local, state and federal levels representing the combined clout of over 1,300 plus members in diverse industry sectors throughout the community. Together we work to ensure that pro-business, pro-growth solutions are always included in the political debate. We offer various opportunities for business leaders to become involved in the political process, including forums and briefings with local, state and federal lawmakers.
CORE POLICY STATEMENT TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF BUSINESS SCORECARD
Abilene Chamber Legislative Agenda for the 88th Texas Legislature

The mission of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce is to develop and promote the economic growth and quality of life in the Abilene area. The Abilene Chamber and its 1,300+ members believe free enterprise and job creation are the solution for creating a higher quality of life for Abilene residents. The Abilene Chamber, on behalf of its members and affiliates, will pursue a pro-growth agenda that creates an environment that encourages job growth, population growth and entrepreneurship. To view an in-depth version of the Chamber’s Legislative Agenda, follow the link below.
View the full agenda.
Representing Abilene
Other Resources
- TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF BUSINESS
- TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE
- US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
- WEST CENTRAL TEXAS COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
- TEXAS: WIDE OPEN FOR BUSINESS – SMALL BUSINESS SITE
- TEXAS: WIDE OPEN FOR BUSINESS – SMALL BUSINESS HANDBOOK (PDF)
The Business Advocacy Committee
The Chamber’s Business Advocacy Council is made up of five voting members from the Chamber who will be approved by the Chamber’s Executive Committee, and four non-voting members from the staffs of lawmakers representing Abilene in Austin and Washington.
Chair – Mitch Barnett, Barnett & Hill
Norman Archibald, Hendrick Health System
Gary Grubbs, Lawrence Hall Abilene
Jay Hardaway, West Texas Strategies
Kaley Kapke, Congressman Jodey Arrington
Ben Bailey, Dr. Dawn Buckingham, Senate District 24
Laura Lewis, Senator Charles Perry
Robyn Wertheim, State Representative Stan Lambert