2017 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITY STATEMENT STATE ISSUES AGRICULTURE / WATER
Incentivize capital investment in alternative wastewater infrastructure system improvement and expansion projects including passage of Heartland Headwaters and Sustainability Act .
Support continued HLB research and funding for abandoned citrus grove removal .
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TOURISM
Support an appropriate level of funding for Enterprise Florida ' s toolkit to attract and retain high-skill , high-wage jobs and investment to our state .
Support an appropriate level of funding for Visit Florida to further its work in establishing Florida as the No . 1 travel destination in the world by strengthening Florida ' s share of the global travel market .
EDUCATION
Continue to place a focus on STEM initiatives .
Champion training and vocational programs to ensure Florida has a workforce prepared to satisfy the needs of a diversifying economy .
HEALTHCARE
TAXATION
The Chamber supports a reduction in the state ' s Business Rent Tax , with the ultimate goal being a complete phase out .
TRANSPORTATION
Support funding for regional transportation priorities including the Central Polk Parkway and Interstate 4 .
WORKERS ' COMPENSATION
The Chamber encourages the Florida Legislature to implement reforms to address attorney ' s fees in order to keep Workers ' Comp rates in Florida affordable for job creators , help keep the Workers ' Comp system functioning , and protect employers and employees from additional , unreasonable rate increases .
LOCAL ISSUES CERTIFICATE OF NEED ( CON )
The Chamber joins the City of Lakeland and Lakeland Regional Health in support of the continuation of Florida ' s Certificate of Need process to ensure patient access to quality , vital healthcare services .
Encourage medical education opportunities and provide training targeted towards key health education programs to serve Florida ' s rapidly expanding population .