A Fall Checklist: How Business and Congress Can Lead Together

Congress isn’t the only group coming back from a summer break. Just like businesses gear up after vacation season, lawmakers are heading back to Washington with a full agenda. The difference? In business, problems don’t get solved by waiting them out — we fix them. This fall, Congress has the same responsibility: to deliver solutions, not stalemates.

That’s why Business for America has put together a fall checklist — not just for Congress, but for the business community too. The work ahead isn’t about scoring partisan points; it’s about strengthening our democracy, rebuilding trust in our institutions, and preparing the country for its 250th anniversary.

This fall, both business and Congress have important work to do — and here’s where to start.

The Fall Checklist

✅ Adopt the Business for America Blueprint

This practical guide outlines strategies companies can use to foster connections between Americans, promote a healthier political culture, and lead with integrity. Use it as inspiration for your next step, whether sparking dialogue inside your company or engaging with policymakers.

✅ Support a Ban on Congressional Stock Trading

When lawmakers regulate industries in which they also hold stock, it’s a conflict of interest that erodes public confidence in both government and markets. Trading on non-public information is illegal on Wall Street; it should be in Congress too.

✅ Back the Building Civic Bridges Act

Toxic polarization doesn’t just affect politics; it also disrupts workplaces, communities, and customer relationships. This bipartisan bill led by Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Andy Barr (R-KY) would equip local organizations with resources to foster connection at the community level — something businesses already recognize as essential to workplace productivity and cohesion.

✅ Join the Effort to Modernize Congress

Outdated technology, clunky processes, and antiquated management practices keep Congress from serving constituents effectively — including businesses. Representative Stephanie Bice (R-OK) is leading a modernization push that deserves business support.

✅ Elevate Bipartisan Problem-Solvers

Celebrate and amplify those willing to reach across the aisle. Business for America’s Across the Aisle event earlier this year showed what’s possible when lawmakers and business leaders model respectful dialogue. A follow-up event is planned for this fall — proof that businesses can play a key role in shifting the culture on Capitol Hill.

Why It Matters

By checking off even a few of these steps, both Congress and the business community can lead by example — showing Americans how to disagree better, compromise where possible, and deliver real solutions. That’s not just good for our democratic republic. It’s good for business, too.

For help on completing your fall checklist, visit bfa.us and contact us!