News briefs from around Wyoming

From Wyoming News Exchange newspapers

First statewide Chamber of Commerce expected to bring opportunities

CHEYENNE (WNE) — Wyoming has made history with the launch of the Wyoming Chamber of Commerce, the state’s first statewide Chamber of Commerce.

While numerous economic development and chamber organizations already represent thousands of local businesses, the Wyoming Chamber of Commerce unites these voices for the first time.

Dale Steenbergen, president/CEO of the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, said in a news release he is excited for the opportunities this will bring for Wyoming business.

“The Wyoming Chamber of Commerce creates a place for local chambers, economic development organizations, DDAs, main streets, tourism associations and business to come together to speak with one unified voice to move our state forward,” he said.

In this statewide launch, the Wyoming Chamber of Commerce has partnered with numerous local chambers and economic development associations across Wyoming.

By partnering with and strengthening local economic development organizations and Chambers of Commerce, the Wyoming Chamber of Commerce aims to facilitate free enterprise across the state, spearheading grassroots efforts to ensure every business in Wyoming has a level playing field and remains aware of the challenges they face.

For any questions regarding membership, contact Heidi Peterson at HeidiP@wyomingchamberofcommerce.org.

—--------

Hageman sponsors Visa Integrity Preservation Act

CHEYENNE (WNE) — U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman on Thursday introduced the Visa Integrity Preservation Act, a bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to close the loophole that has allowed the Biden administration to grant mass amnesty to over 500,000 immigrants who illegally entered the United States or overstayed a visa, according to a news release from Hageman’s office.

If approved, this bill would require undocumented immigrants under all circumstances to depart the United States and be subject to an interview before they could receive a nonimmigrant visa. The bill would also bar them from reentering the United States under certain defined circumstances.

“The Biden/Harris open border policies have allowed over 12 million unvetted migrants to illegally enter our country. Their blatant and intentional refusal to enforce immigration laws is well documented in President Biden’s nearly 100 executive orders that are designed to subvert safeguards against illegal entry, including ‘Parole in Place’ orders,” Hageman said in a news release.

“Allowing individuals to register for lawful status after already being in America is a huge incentive for illegal immigration — and exactly the opposite of what the Immigration and Nationality Act intends,” she said. “My bill will close this loophole and reestablish proper parole procedures.”