Common Ground

» With a degree of overlap in their memberships, the two organizations are frequently on the same page and collaborate on many business-related issues like unemployment compensation reform, job creation and some legal reform bills.

That said, one group will often take more of a lead on a particular issue. While AIF, for instance, calls the shots on workers' compensation, the Chamber is in the saddle when it comes to tort reform. Although both groups supported efforts to kill Hometown Democracy, the Chamber took the lead in that fight, ultimately spending more than $10 million to block Lesley Blackner's proposed amendment with its "Vote No On 4" campaign.

The staffs of the two organizations meet periodically to discuss legislative issues. During the most recent legislative session, the two collaborated on a crash-worthiness bill for the auto industry and stopped the House from raiding the transportation trust fund. Both groups also actively opposed immigration reform legislation that would include mandated use of the federal "E-Verify" program. Earlier this year the two groups helped draft proposed legislative changes to the state's growth management laws.

The Chamber and AIF both benefited from a business-friendly Legislature and governor this year. [Photo: AP/Chris O' Meara]

Tags: Politics & Law, Business Services, Government/Politics & Law