Today, U.S. Representative Austin Scott spoke before nearly 200 members of the community at a special legislative luncheon presented by the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce. The luncheon, co-hosted by the Valdosta Rotary Club, Valdosta-North Rotary Club and Nashville-Berrien Rotary Club, took place at the Rainwater Conference Center.

During the luncheon, Congressman Scott spoke about an array of issues affecting small businesses inSouth Georgia. One of the topics discussed was the impending implementation of the Affordable Care Act.

“Today, I see entrepreneurs asking themselves, ‘how can I grow my business without taking on more employees?’” said Congressman Scott. “The outcry for this bill [the Affordable Care Act] will really start after October 1 - once rates are published and the American people truly understand what they’re now going to have to pay to have health insurance.”

Another topic discussed by Congressman Scott included the need to protect Moody Air Force Base from any negative actions, such as a potential base realignment and closure, commonly known as BRAC, in 2015.

“As a member of the Armed Forces Committee, I think you’ll see an upcoming BRAC possibility,” said Congressman Scott. “I’m glad to see that your area has pulled together and started the South Georgia Military Affairs Council (SGMAC); now, we need to focus on growing Moody Air Force Base and seeing what missions can be brought here.”

Congressman Scott also shared his thoughts on immigration reform.

“The first thing we need to do is address border security,” said Congressman Scott. “Then, we can deal with our broken immigration system and create a work permit program.”

After Congressman Scott’s speech, members of the audience asked questions ranging from education to retirement benefits.

To wrap up the luncheon, Moore Hallmark with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce presented Congressman Scott with the Spirit of Enterprise Award. This award recognized Congressman Scott for his work in supporting American workers and businesses through policies that encourage private sector investment and growth.

For more information on the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce, please call 247-8100. Another way to view information includes liking the Chamber’s official Facebook page atFacebook.com/VLCChamber.