State of American Business: Outlook for 2011

In preparation for the legislative challenges and opportunities in the year ahead, the U.S. Chamber hosted the annual State of American Business. During the address, U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue outlined a four-point plan to put jobless Americans back to work.

1. Regulatory restraint and reform

Work to reform the regulatory process—to restore some badly needed balance, restraint, and common sense. We will also stand up a new group to tell the story to the American people about the massive costs of excessive regulations on jobs and their personal and economic freedom. Learn more about Regulatory Reform here.
 
2. Expanding American trade
 
Work to pass the pending free trade agreements and launch a major initiative to educate citizens and policymakers on trade that will clearly link global engagement to American jobs. Take Action Now.
 
3. Rebuilding our economic platform
 
Rebuild America’s economic foundation—the platform our society runs on. Roads, bridges, rail and mass transit networks, airports, and air transport systems must be modernized. Broadband capacity, power generation, and water supplies must be expanded. We can create jobs, reduce our trade and budget deficits, and increase our own security by developing all forms of alternative, renewable, and traditional energy. We will also commence a new project to outline what our nation must do to create and secure a 21st century global supply chain and logistics system. Stay Tuned for More Information.
 
4. Reducing deficits and debt
 
Support congressional efforts to lower spending. We will make the case for entitlement reform as any plan that fails to tackle these runaway programs is doomed to fail. We will also support efforts by Republican and Democratic governors to challenge public employee unions and their excessive payroll, health, and retirement demands.

While the state of the economy is improving, it remains fragile and uneven. There are many unanswered questions that must be addressed before companies start aggressively hiring and job growth begins. Over the next year, the Chamber’s number one priority will be to turn this economic recovery into a jobs recovery so that we can start putting Americans back to work.