In D.C., virtual lobbying hits target
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association’s (NLBMDA) LBM Industry Advocacy Week was a virtual replacement for its annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C.
This annual event provides a chance for NLBMDA members to meet with congressional leaders and address legislative concerns pressing the LBM industry. The Northeastern Retail Lumber Association (NRLA) participated in a big way. The group announced that over 100 of their members attended the virtual NLBMDA LBM Industry Advocacy Week from April 12-16, setting record attendance for both the regional association itself as well as for the national association.
According to NRLA Chair Lorraine Miner, “In our country we have the right to meet with our government representatives and express our needs and opinions. It’s a precious right that we should all make use of. The NRLA puts forth great effort to provide us with the opportunity to do just that every year. There’s strength in numbers. “I encourage members to take advantage of this annual opportunity to advocate on behalf of the LBM industry and hope you will join us next year.”
More Information
Next up on the NLBMDA’s event schedule is the ProDealer Industry Summit, hosted jointly by the NLBMDA and HBSDealer. The virtual event will take place May 19-21. For more information, visit prodealer.com.
Constituents discussed with their elected officials the need for a new Softwood Lumber Agreement, the federal minimum wage increase, and COVID-19 employer liability. All issues tied into the umbrella topic of affordable housing.
“NRLA members eagerly advocated for the removal of obstacles to affordable housing and promoted the need for employer liability protections for essential businesses,” said NRLA President Rita Ferris. “They also stressed the significant employment opportunities in the building material supply industry and the need to educate students in the trades.”
The 1,300-member NRLA set up 31 meetings with legislators’ offices, including meetings with Sen. Susan Collins (ME), Rep. Chellie Pingree (ME-1), Rep. Paul Tonko (NY-20), and Rep. Elise Stefanik (NY-22).
Sen. Collins is part of the family that owns S.W. Collins, a 175-year-old lumber yard based in Caribou, Maine.
“Whether virtually or in-person, the members of the NRLA always answer the bell to advocate on behalf of independent lumber and building materials businesses across the United States,” said Kirk Ives, NRLA Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs. “This year’s record-breaking participation demonstrated the strength of the LBM industry and its desire to play a pivotal role in advancing our collective legislative priorities.
“Our membership will continue to work with their congressional representation to support policies that will enhance the economic vitality of their companies and allow for a safe environment for both their employees and their customers.”