FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 7, 2023
WASHINGTON, DC – State Business Executives (SBE) Board of Directors today announced its economic agenda for 2024 – T.I.E.S.- Trade, Immigration, Education, and Sustainabilaity. T.I.E.S. focuses on real, actionable solutions that will drive economic growth and opportunities.
“America needs a concentrated, directed focus to grow and compete, and T.I.E.S. is the precise policy agenda for this administration and our congressional delegation to focus on,” stated Peter Guzman, incoming SBE Board Chair & Latin Chamber of Commerce Nevada President. “Expanding trade deals and opportunities, addressing our immigration systems, ensuring our education system is preparing all students for success and the workforce, while making sure we are good stewards and protecting our environment, is the right focus and we are proud to support this robust economic policy agenda.”
“The importance of Trade to American businesses and workers is paramount to our growth, economic well- being, and global standing,” said Brewster Bevis, SBE Executive Committee & Associated Industries of Florida President & CEO. “In the dynamic arena of commerce, trade is not simply the transactional currency; it is the strategic synergy that propels businesses forward. Trade expands markets, fuels innovation, and empowers enterprises to reach new heights. Trade that transcends borders, creates opportunities and drives growth and competition.”
“Immigration reform stands as the vital thread weaving together resilience, diversity, and shared prosperity with industry clamoring for skilled, dedicated workforce,” remarked Justin Yancy, SBE Board Chair & President of Texas Business Leadership Council. “Our Nation’s immigration system is in dire need of modernization and action by members of Congress. Comprehensive reform is not just a policy objective nor a pipe dream; it is a commitment to building a more inclusive, dynamic future for industry, communities, and our country. Our Nation’s strength has been built and fortified by immigrants, and by fostering an environment that welcomes talent, innovation, and diversity, we pave the way for a united and thriving future.”
“In the ever-evolving landscape of our global workforce, Education has and will always be the cornerstone of empowerment and progress,” added Becky Hultberg, incoming SBE Vice Chair and President & CEO of Oregon Hospital and Healthcare System. “We thank our Nation’s educators and will continue to champion the significance of education as the catalyst for cultivating a skilled, adaptable, and innovative future workforce. A well-rounded education not only equips individuals with the tools to navigate complexities, it also sparks the flames of creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration essential for success in the 21st century. Today’s investment in education is tomorrow’s dividend in a workforce prepared to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities that shape our shared destiny.”
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About State Business Executives State Business Executives through advocacy, education, and collaboration works to proactively support and develop non-partisan solutions that promote success for American businesses, workers, and communities. We convene state business leaders to foster, cultivate, and sustain an optimal business climate, drive business prosperity, and advance a strong national economy. To learn more visit statebusinessexecutives.org.
