As state lawmakers prepare for the 2017 legislative session that begins Jan. 4, the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry has announced its major legislative objectives. The priorities were approved by the State Chamber's board of directors this week. Some of the Chamber's top legislative priorities for the new year include: An enhanced workforce; modern business incentives; a more competitive tax climate; and new housing development. In addition to approving the Chamber's major legislative objectives, the board confirmed the election of the association's leadership for 2017. Dirk Petersen, vice president and general manager of Nucor Steel in Norfolk, will serve as the State Chamber's new chairman. Petersen officially begin his duties Feb. 2 during the State Chamber's Annual Meeting in Lincoln. He succeeds Omaha's Steve Martin, CEO of Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Nebraska, as the Chamber's top elected officer. Rich Herink of Lincoln, market president of First National Bank, will serve as the Chamber's chair-elect. See the Chamber's news release here.
