At last week’s Economic Forecast Forum, a panel of leaders discussing “Why North Carolina?” were asked to identify the top issues facing our state heading into the new year. While challenges like the skills gap and infrastructure funding have drawn a lot of attention over the last year, one panelist had an answer that doesn’t often come up in similar discussions: North Carolina’s regulatory climate. In the words of Ward Nye, the NC Chamber Board of Directors Chair and president and CEO at Martin Marietta:

Forbes ranked North Carolina first for its regulatory environment, but it’s important that our business community understands the choking effect overly burdensome regulations can have on economic development. Indeed, while a regulatory dialogue is one seldom steeped in inspirational and soaring oratory, it is nonetheless critically important to our state’s current and future economic outlook. Supporting the growth requirements of business and protecting a healthy natural environment are not mutually exclusive.

Ward’s remarks were timely as we look ahead to 2020 and a new decade for North Carolina. As the state continues to grow, adding an expected 2 million more residents by 2030, the rate and pace of development is sure to continue increasing. That’s why it’s critical now to ensure we’re developing a smart regulatory climate that allows us to grow at the speed of business while also protecting North Carolina’s environment and preserving what makes our state so special.

Striking this balance will take hard work and collaboration, and we look forward to working with you on issues that affect the state’s regulatory climate and environment. Will your organization be working on issues in this space in the coming year? We’d love to hear from you. What issues in this area or others are on your mind as you enter 2020? If you have a moment, please fill out this quick survey and tell us about your priorities for the new year so we can continue to be a voice for you.

Finally, if you’re interested in the latest updates on regulatory issues, legislation and policy decisions impacting the air, water, waste and natural resource arenas, you won’t want to miss our Environmental Compliance Conference on February 5. Join NC Department of Environmental Quality officials and industry experts in Raleigh by registering here.