Talk is PRICELESS on Capitol Hill Be part of the conversation.
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arlier this year, I wrote about the “power of together” … that, at PHCC, there’s real power – and progress – in what we can do when we combine our efforts. The Legislative Conference on Capitol Hill last month was perfect proof of this. The two-day event put the issues of more than 100 contractors and association executives in front of influential lawmakers, giving them first-hand insight into the how the decisions they make directly impact the p-h-c community. It truly was PHCC at its best, as passionate, informed PHCC members came to the table on several issues, including workforce development and the proposed furnace rule. As Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC) told attendees, “If you can come to Washington and tell Congress your story, then you’re an effective lobbyist.” True Stories. Big Difference. Going face-to-face with influential leaders made all the difference in the world. As testament, since the conference several Congressional offices have requested more information on how the Dept. of Energy’s proposed 92 percent furnace rule will affect PHCC members. Regarding the industry’s worker shortage, PHCC certainly gained congressional support on attracting and training skilled professionals during meetings with influential lawmakers who serve on bodies like the House Small Business Committee, the House Subcommittee on Workforce Development and the House Career and Technical Education Caucus. In fact, Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-PA), co-chair of the House Career and Technical Education Caucus, reinforced that this issue needs to be a priority not just to keep businesses viable but to keep America competitive. There’s no doubt about it, the collective power of PHCC made a strong statement on Capitol Hill. PHCC members accomplished solid progress as they met with their respective representatives, building relationships and heightening general awareness of the industry. The process reminded [6]
Maryland PHCC Contractor | Summer 2015
By Gerry Kennedy PHCC National Association Executive Vice President
me of why PHCC got started more than 130 years ago: to accomplish together what we can’t do alone Continue the Conversation. The truth is that few Members of Congress have experience in small business, which is why these connections are critical to building relationships and establishing credibility on Capitol Hill. As Dave Boda of Boda Plumbing Monroe, N.C., said of the conference, “It made me realize that change in D.C. is only going to come through consistent, focused, and informative correspondence with [representatives] in the House and Senate.” Follow Boda’s lead; take that first step: • Get involved in government relations through your local PHCC chapter. •
Contact your legislator’s district office and request a meeting to discuss issues and regulations that directly impact your business, your family, your industry.
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Get involved in PHCC’s Political Action Committee (PAC).
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Make the most of your experience at CONNECT 2015 in Hollywood, Fla., by attending the Political Action Committee event on Sept. 30.
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Of course, save the date for next year’s PHCC Legislative Conference. Dates will be finalized soon!
As Legislative Conference participant Joel Long of GSM Services in Gastonia, N.C., said: “If you are going to be in business, you better be involved in politics. The politics will be involved in your business with or without you!” For more information on PHCC’s programs and opportunities, visit www.phccweb.org or call (800) 533-7694.