Chamber Weeks 2026: From Hawaii to the Hill: Legislative 201 & Federal Policy Update presented by Zippy's

Chamber Week(s) presented by Alaska Airlines x Hawaiian Airlines is a multi-week series of events and programming that coincides with the opening of the Hawaii State Legislature to connect members and the business community with legislators and engage them in the legislative process. 

From Hawaii to the Hill: Legislative 201 & Federal Update allows you to hear from experts on 2026 legislation that will impact the business community including Jennings Imel, Executive Director, Western Region, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Tonga Hopoi, Vice President, Policy and Public Affairs, Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, and other special guests.
 
This informative session will kick-off with a Legislative 201 presentation by Tonga Hopoi. This session goes beyond “how a bill becomes law” and explores the deeper strategies behind legislative engagement, including the Chamber’s legislative 2026 priorities, how to build relationships with legislators, provide impactful testimony, and navigate committee hearings. Learn practical tools for monitoring legislation in real time, understanding political dynamics, and information on the Chamber's legislative packet for 2026.

Followed by Jennings Imel for a Federal Outlook update on topics including trade, infrastructure, immigration and other key issues from the federal level and current administration. 

Complimentary for Chamber members. Registration includes coffee and pastries.



Jennings Imel
Executive Director
U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Before joining the U.S. Chamber staff in 2013, Jennings worked in Washington, DC at the U.S. Association of Former Members of Congress and at the public affairs firm of Mercury, Clark & Weinstock. Prior to moving to DC, Jennings worked in the California State Assembly; he also managed and worked on several successful congressional and state legislative campaigns, mostly in the Southern California region.

Jennings received a master's degree in international affairs from The George Washington University and bachelor's degrees in political science and German from the University of California, Riverside.


Tonga Hopoi
Vice President, Policy and Public Affairs
Chamber of Commerce Hawaii

Tonga began her career in public policy as a White House policy intern in the Office of the First Lady Mrs. Michelle Obama working on initiatives such as “Reach Higher” and “Let Girls Learn”. Beyond her work in the Office of the First Lady, Tonga was the first Tongan to hold a position in the White House and is recognized in the White House Records.

Want to get involved? Marketing opportunities are available to promote your company during Chamber Week. Please click here for more information.

CLICK HERE to watch our 2025 PSA to learn more about Chamber Week.