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the robotic welder in the small parts department. Rep. Burchett has a background in welding and painting and had previously intended to become a trade school instructor before going into politics. During the tour, he demonstrated his familiarity with manufacturing processes and had astute questions for the Boatmate executive team.

Congressman Burchett’s visit to Boatmate’s facility is an important step in continuing to advocate for the needs of both component suppliers and manufacturers in the light- and- medium-duty trailer industry.

Owen Shelton, president of Boatmate Trailers and past president of NATM, shared, “It’s beneficial to invite policymakers into our facilities because it brings light to the industry and its needs. These visits with members of Congress show what impact legislation can have on businesses and on families.”

During the visit, the Boatmate team communicated the challenges facing their business and the needs of the constituents in Congressman Burchett’s district. Supply chain issues, workforce shortages, and tariffs have created complex, and multifaceted problems. It is important for legislators to see firsthand how their constituency is being affected. Throughout the tour, the Congressman listened to the different challenges facing Boatmate, as well as the optimistic outlook for its future as the company looks to meet the increased demand for boat trailers.

In March, Congressman Burchett cosponsored and introduced the Trailer Safety Improvement Act (H.R. 6915) along with Congressman Garamendi (CA-03). Alongside the introduction of the bill, Rep. Burchett’s office noted “In 2021, the United States experienced a 20% increase in car crash deaths. Concurrently, 47% of Americans expressed an intent to travel domestically, recreational vehicle sales increased by 33.8%, and trailer sales jumped 164% year-over-year. The most common cause of trailer accidents is lack of experience. As more Americans travel throughout the country, it’s critically important that they know how to properly use their trailers.”

Current law requires each state to operate highway safety programs, however those programs do not include trailer safety initiatives. H.R. 6915 would amend 23 USC 402(a) (2)(A) to ensure these highway safety programs include initiatives “to educate the public about proper and safe usage of light- and medium-duty trailers, including required safety equipment and preventative maintenance for safety.”

NATM and its member companies are invested in improving trailer safety, as evidenced by its annual Trailer Safety Week. NATM hopes this legislation will improve access to trailer safety information and resources. The Association is continuing to work with Congressman Burchett and Garamendi’s offices as well as other Congressional members as the bill sees its way to the floor.

NATM’s Government Affairs program actively works to reach out to legislators on behalf of its membership. But, to successfully advocate on behalf of the industry, it is crucial for NATM member companies to contact the Association and alert them of potential challenges. With NATM member companies ranging from small shops to million-dollar companies, running a business is already a full-time job without the added responsibility of working with legislators. The Association will continue to work on behalf of these member companies to identify the possible impacts of legislation and strengthen the communication between the trailer industry and lawmakers through plant visits, legislative round tables, and its annual Regulatory Roundup & Capitol Hill visits in Washington, D.C. ■

For more information about Boatmate Trailers, LLC, visit www.boatmatetrailers.com or call (865) 273-1100. For more information about hosting your representatives or becoming more involved in NATM’s Government Affairs programs, contact NATM Executive Director Kendra Ansley at Kendra. Ansley@natm.com or call (785) 272-4433. ■