The Greater Portsmouth Chamber of Commerce places a high priority on involvement in government affairs. Since elected officials are our "silent business partners," we strive to maintain a level of accountability and oversight into the activities of our elected business partners.

Each year, the Government Affairs Committee (GAC) reviews all legislation that has been submitted (typically over 1,000 bills) by legislators. As part of our review process, the Committee determines which bills merit involvement or monitoring by the Seacoast's business community. Some public policy issues require active involvement, such a oral testimony before a legislative committee, and other issues are simply monitored for the benefit of Chamber members.

The Chamber currently has the support of a professional lobbyist to assist our Committee with these efforts. Timothy Fortier, government relations advisor with the law firm of McLane, Graf, Raulerson & Middleton, PA, is providing his expertise to our Committee in the development of an organizational structure for long-term involvement in government affairs activities. He attends all our meetings and advises the members in their efforts to determine the best uses of our limited resources.