Photo Courtesy The Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce
Sold Out Chamber Breakfast Shows Strong Regional Engagement
Annapolis, MD - The Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with six fellow chambers across the county, successfully kicked off the 2026 legislative year with a sold-out Legislative Breakfast on January 8th at Blackwall Barn & Lodge in Gambrills. The event drew more than 180 local business leaders, creating a packed house and a strong showing of regional engagement.
Designed to bring together elected officials, Chamber members and the broader business community, the annual Legislative Breakfast provides a vital forum for dialogue at the Federal, State, and County levels. This year’s program featured Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth as the keynote speaker, offering insights into key issues emerging from Washington, D.C. and the impact on local businesses.
In addition to the keynote, attendees heard from two dedicated panels—one focused on the Anne Arundel County Council and the other on the Maryland General Assembly. Panelists shared their perspectives on the legislative priorities and challenges shaping 2026, followed by an interactive Q&A session. Business attendees were encouraged to submit real-time questions via text, resulting in thoughtful and candid discussion.
Special thanks to our General Assembly panelists, Delegate Brian Chisholm and Senator Shaneka Henson and our County Council Panelists, Allison Pickard and Amanda Fiedler.
Topics generating the most interest included healthcare, energy costs, affordable housing, the State budget, County permitting processes, childcare, and healthcare workforce supply. Numerous additional State and County officials were also in attendance, taking time to connect directly with members throughout the morning.
The Chamber extends its sincere thanks to the room full of elected officials who attended, including County Executive Pittman. We also appreciate the recognition shared by many officials that Chamber membership remains one of the most effective ways for businesses to ensure their voices are heard by policymakers.
This event was made possible through a strong regional partnership between the Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce, Central Maryland Chamber, Greater Crofton Chamber, Northern Anne Arundel County Chamber, Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber, Southern Anne Arundel Chamber, and the Pasadena Business Association.
We are also grateful to our generous sponsors. Presenting sponsors included Luminis Health and Recovery 180 Clifton. BG&E, Comcast Business, Live! Casino & Hotel, University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center sponsored as well as 4Bridges Commercial, Boatyard Bar & Grill, Providence of Maryland, FTC Aggregate Supply, Nothing Bundt Cakes, BL Technical, Bach to Rock–Severna Park, Beaningful Services, and Evolve Life Centers.
Why Chamber Advocacy Matters for Your Business
Policies crafted at the local, state, and federal levels directly affect taxes, regulations, workforce development, and affordability for businesses of all sizes. That’s why legislative advocacy is a cornerstone of the Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce’s mission.
Through year-round engagement with elected officials, coalition-building, and signature events like the Legislative Breakfast, Breakfast with the Mayor, and Coffee & Conversation Roundtables, the Chamber serves as a collective voice for business—allowing members to stay focused on leading their companies while still having representation during the legislative session, which officially begins January 14.
The 2026 Legislative Breakfast was a powerful reminder of the value of collaboration, advocacy, and open communication—and a strong start to the year ahead.
