Final days of session and a personal announcement about the future

By Doug Loon
President and CEO
Minnesota Chamber of Commerce

Coming to you as we are near the end of the 2026 legislative session. I want to give you an update regarding what is happening at the Capitol but also share a little personal news today.

First, lawmakers are still facing several unresolved issues before the constitutional adjournment deadline of Sunday, May 17 at midnight. Negotiations between legislative leaders and Governor Tim Walz continue as major budget and policy agreements are still being finalized. The business community is closely watching whether lawmakers can reach agreement on federal tax conformity, one of the Chamber’s top priorities this session.

Employers are also watching closely for efforts to avoid additional costs and mandates that could impact competitiveness, investment and workforce growth in Minnesota. With a divided Legislature requiring bipartisan compromise, these final days of session are expected to move quickly as leaders work to finalize agreements. The Chamber policy team remains at the Capitol advocating on your behalf and continuing to push for policies that support long term economic growth and certainty for employers.

Now onto some personal news. Today I am sharing that my retirement as president and CEO of the Minnesota Chamber will come at the end of this year. After much contemplation, personal reflection and consideration of where the organization stands today, I believe this is the right time both personally and for the Chamber. Strong organizations plan for the future, and the Chamber is well positioned for continued success.

I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished together during my 11 years with the Chamber, and I have complete confidence in our staff and volunteer leaders who will continue building on the strong foundation and momentum we have created to improve Minnesota’s business climate.

Most of all, I am grateful for our members and for the trust, partnership, and commitment you have shown to Minnesota’s business community over the years. My promise is to continue leading this organization fully through the remainder of the year while supporting the search process for the Chamber’s next president and CEO.

We still have important work ahead, and I remain focused on advancing our shared goal of building a strong economic future for Minnesota. Thank you to the volunteer leaders of our Board of Directors who will guide this search process. I am confident they will identify outstanding leadership for the future of this organization.

Thank you for being part of this podcast and for your continued support. I will be back with more updates in the weeks ahead as we complete the legislative session and continue our work together. Please enjoy the upcoming weekend, and we look forward to catching up with you soon again on the Minnesota Business Podcast.