Leaders from the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce joined the Dallas Regional Chamber, Fort Worth Chamber and Plano Chamber for a regional Fly-In to Washington D.C., bringing the priorities of more than 4,000 businesses directly to federal decision-makers.
Together, the delegation brought a unified North Texas voice to Capitol Hill during the April 14-16 visit, engaging directly with members of Congress and federal agencies on the policies shaping our region’s continued growth and competitiveness.
“North Texas is one of the most economically powerful regions in the country, and when our business community speaks with one voice, it carries real weight in Washington,” Michael Jacobson, President & CEO of the Greater Arlington Chamber, said. “This trip ensures our region shapes the policies that impact our businesses, workforce and long-term growth.”
In the months leading up to the April fly-in, teams from the four chambers aligned around a focused federal agenda centered on economic development and infrastructure, education and workforce, and advanced technologies.
Economic Development & Infrastructure: With federal transportation funding up for reauthorization in 2026, the delegation urged Congress to prioritize fast-growing regions like North Texas, streamline permitting and advance reforms such as the SPEED Act.
Education & Workforce: The group called for modernization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to better align with today’s labor market, along with full funding for childcare programs and continued employer-focused incentives.
Advanced Technologies: As a leader in AI, autonomous vehicles and emerging mobility, North Texas advocated for a clear, consistent federal framework that supports innovation while maintaining global competitiveness.
During the trip, the delegation met with federal officials and members of Congress to advance the North Texas business community’s priorities. Discussions included workforce development with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration, as well as key issues tied to apprenticeship expansion and long-term talent strategy.
On Capitol Hill, the group met with members of the North Texas delegation and their staff, including representatives from the offices of Congressmen Jake Ellzey, Brian Babin, Beth Van Duyne, Marc Veasey, Roger Williams and Brandon Gill, along with U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz.
The delegation also participated in a policy lunch featuring remarks from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and concluded the day with a regional reception alongside industry leaders.
The Greater Arlington Chamber is grateful to the federal officials and congressional staff who took time to meet with our delegation and to our regional partners for demonstrating the strength of a unified North Texas voice in Washington.
To learn more about the Chamber’s public policy efforts, contact Drew Haugen, Director of Public Policy, at dhaugen@arlingtontx.com.