The North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce is committed to our mission of keeping Bexar County strong through the delivery of advocacy, networking, recognition, leadership and professional development programs. This month we want to make sure that all of our members have a clear understanding of what our position is on the recent overtime rule injunction. We’d also like to congratulate the 80 new Leadership Lab graduates and encourage you to continue to stay involved and voice your needs as we plan for a new year.
 
Overtime Rule Injunction
On Wednesday, November 23, 2016 U.S. District Judge Amos Mazzant issued a preliminary injunction to block the Department of Labor’s new overtime rule. The new rule would more than double the salary threshold for workers to qualify as exempt from overtime pay requirements, raising the threshold from $23,660 to $47,476 per year.
 
The North SA Chamber believes all employees deserve to be compensated for their work, however our concern was that the excessive requirements on the new rule would have unnecessarily burdened small businesses, potentially forcing them to demote or lay-off workers in order to meet the threshold mandated. 
 
Additionally, this rule would have impacted how our businesses operate on a daily basis. It would not only stretch organizational resources, but deter the spirit of corporate volunteerism that makes our communities great. That is why the North SA Chamber felt it was important to be a part of the business coalition that included the Texas Association of Business, U.S. Chamber and others to support blocking the rule.
 
The injunction provides immediate relief from potential negative impacts for employers. Most importantly, this decision helps us to find a new approach and continue to make business climates effective and fair for all. We want all of our members to understand that we have your best interests in mind when taking positions on these issues.
 
Leadership Lab Class of 2016
On behalf of the North SA Chamber Board of Directors, I would like to congratulate the Leadership Lab Class of 2016 on their graduation. The class of 80 professionals went through a 9-month leadership and professional development series based on the most current thinking, research and best practices surrounding professional performance, leadership, management, community service and self-awareness.  Click here to see the full list of graduates. I would also like to recognize the Chair of this year’s class – Jennifer Van Cleave of RSM US, LLP and Co-Chair – Lisa Kopecky, HR Business Solutions who worked extremely hard to bring in the best programming, educational speakers, community leaders and assessments that San Antonio has to offer. If you are interested in applying for the 2017 class or sponsoring a session, you can find more information here. The application deadline is December 16, 2016.
 
Stay Involved
As we plan for 2017, we want your input! The North SA Chamber has extended the deadline on our 12-question membership survey focused on membership pricing, media and benefits. Please fill out the survey before December 16, 2016 for your chance at a $50 gift card to Napa Flats Wood-Fired Kitchen. Click here to fill out the survey.
 
You do not want to miss one of our last events of 2016 – the Economic Outlook with world economist, Dr. Ray Perryman on Friday, December 9^th from 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. at the Petroleum Club. If you are a Chairman’s Council member, please RSVP for your 2 complimentary seats to Marilyn White at mwhite@northsachamber.com. If you are not a Chairman’s Council member but would like to learn more about becoming one or attending this event, please give us a call at (210) 344-4848.
 
We are getting in the Holiday spirit at the North SA Chamber and are collecting donations for San Antonio Toys for Tots through December 9^th. Please bring any unwrapped toy donations by our office (12930 Country Parkway) to give back to those less fortunate this holiday season. We are open 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.
 
As we look ahead to 2017, I encourage you to find new opportunities for involvement. Plug into a committee or plan to attend or sponsor an event. We are thankful for your membership and for all that you and your organizations do to keep Bexar County strong. I wish you a happy and healthy holiday season.