Ronald Reagan famously said: “The nine most terrifying words in the English language are ‘I’m from the government, and I’m here to help.’” Although government bureaucracy and politics can be chaotic, the government is a necessary, important partner to engage with when planning your business’s future.
NRCA’s advocacy team constantly works to keep members informed and influence policy decisions affecting the roofing industry. The team’s efforts include providing expertise in government affairs and policymaking to give your business a competitive advantage; amplifying the industry’s message on Capitol Hill; shaping regulations to minimize potential harm; advocating for fair competition; and navigating the complex process in Washington, D.C.
NRCA’s advocacy efforts are built around three pillars: grassroots outreach, political influence, and effective communication and expertise. These pillars present unique opportunities for roofing professionals to get involved.
Grassroots outreach
One of the roofing industry’s largest grassroots advocacy events is Roofing Day in D.C. Held each spring, the event brings hundreds of industry professionals to Washington, D.C., to meet with members of Congress and their staff and share invaluable insight regarding how proposed legislation affects roofing businesses. The event also features expert speakers and panelists to foster an educational experience, and participants have opportunities to network with peers. More than 200 industry professionals attended Roofing Day in D.C. 2023 and discussed funding for career and technical education, immigration reform and other key topics with lawmakers. Roofing Day in D.C. 2024 will be held April 16-17, and all are welcome.
Roofing professionals also are encouraged to use NRCA’s Action Alert feature online to directly contact lawmakers. Email templates are available for anyone who wants to contact his or her representatives and senators expressing thoughts and concerns regarding important topics such as workforce shortages, pro-growth tax policy, and career and technical education.
Investing in ROOFPAC is another way to support the roofing industry’s interests in Washington, D.C. During the 2021-22 election cycle, ROOFPAC raised $424,000, and 94% of ROOFPAC-supported candidates won their elections Nov. 8, 2022.
Political influence
As one of the oldest trade associations in the U.S., NRCA has built a positive reputation. The association is known for having the best and brightest leaders and members. Members of Congress often call on NRCA’s collective expertise to create innovative solutions to problems and learn how their legislative ideas could affect their communities.
There also are many times the roofing industry needs the government to hear its collective voice. The relationships NRCA and its members build with legislators help drive desired results. These public-private partnerships are crucial for long-term growth, collaboration and mutual benefit.
Communication
NRCA sustains communication and relationships with an ever-changing landscape of elected officials, and these relationships are deepened through members’ personal engagement. Have you considered inviting a member of Congress to tour your company’s facility or job site? NRCA can provide everything you need to host a member of Congress at your business.
These collaborations will effect meaningful change through advocacy. NRCA is ready to take action, and with your help, there is no limit to what can be accomplished.
DEBORAH MAZOL is NRCA’s director of federal affairs in Washington, D.C.
ROOFPAC is the federally registered political action committee of NRCA, and contributions will be used for political purposes. Contributions to ROOFPAC are not tax-deductible and the name, address, occupation and employer’s name of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 during a calendar year will be reported to the Federal Election Commission. Contributions are voluntary, and you have the right to refuse to contribute without any reprisal.
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