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​​GSSCC is the undisputed voice of and for member businesses and their interests, having built long-term and long-lasting relationships with legislators, policymakers, and government agencies in Montgomery County and Annapolis.

​Whether testifying in support of or opposition to legislation affecting local business before the Montgomery County Council or the Maryland State Legislature; helping to resolve member challenges as varied as traffic, parking, safety, or inspections; keeping members informed and updated on laws, regulations, and programs, GSSCC is on top of government and policymaking issues that most affect our member businesses.

A sample of the Chamber's advocacy on behalf of member companies:

• Membership and participation with important local panels, including the Silver Spring Urban District Advisory Committee, the Silver Spring Transportation District Advisory Committee, the Silver Spring Arts & Entertainment Advisory Committee, and The East County Citizens Advisory Board.
• Through the Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee and Leadership, regular communication to Montgomery County and Maryland officials on issues, plans, policies, and laws that affect our members.
• Annual, Chamber-produced legislative priority agendas – together with regular oral and written testimony on key issues during Montgomery County Council and Maryland Senate and House of Delegates sessions. 
• During election years, “get out the vote” campaigns, resources for members to judge candidates’ records on issues of interest to business, and regular "Meet the Candidates" events for members.

For more information on the state of Maryland's economy and current business climate:

Maryland's Economic Competitiveness

Learn what legislative actions the Chamber is taking and how you can get your voice heard:

Chamber Action Alerts

2025/2026 ADVOCACY AGENDA

LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

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Current Advocacy Efforts (2026)

​Tax

• HB 78 and HB 90/SB 224 - Allows local governments to add a special property tax for land and land improvements, along with on commercial and industrial property
• HB 880 - Decoupling from depreciation and business interest expense amendments to the Internal Revenue Code. Chamber is Opposed.

Health

• HB 1472/SB 779 - Professional Employer Organizations bill. Looking for small businesses to testify in support. Chamber Supports.

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Unemployment Insurance

• HB 188/SB 3 - Unemployment Insurance Modernization Act. Chamber is opposed.

Competitiveness Index books will be available soon! 

"GSSCC has made my life easier as a business owner by 'having my back!' The Chamber is on top of every issue that impacts the business community and ensures that our concerns are heard. GSSCC has taught me to be a better advocate for myself and the business community."  

​Stacey Brown, Owner, Signarama Silver Spring