As part of PPAI’s Legislative Education and Action Day (LEAD), a group of more than 80 industry advocates went to Washington, D.C. this week to meet with members of Congress and federal agencies. The goal of the meetings? To increase awareness for the industry as a whole and to engage members of Congress on issues that impact companies in the promotional products market.

“It is our collective responsibility to work to ensure lawmakers understand the value, benefits and employment opportunities offered by this creative and vibrant industry,” wrote Paul Bellantone, president and CEO of PPAI, in a Legislative Agenda notice designed to help educate members of Congress and their staffs about the effectiveness of promotional products. “The promotional products industry represents tens of thousands of companies, hundreds of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars. PPAI and its members urge Congress to learn more about the effectiveness and utility of promotional products for the public and private sectors.”

The agenda for the conversations with Congressional representatives included: Protecting and preserving the interests of small businesses; creating a tax climate that rewards small businesses; adapting the global supply chain to ensure ease of international operations; and ensuring the promotional products industry remains vibrant and dynamic.

Charles Machion, senior vice president and senior counsel for ASI, was part of the industry delegation in Washington, D.C. this week, as he met with members of Congress who represent Pennsylvania. “It’s always a rewarding experience to be able to sit down with Senators and Representatives and their staffs to discuss important issues that impact promotional products companies,” Machion said. “It’s important that we remain top of mind to these legislators and that we show them exactly how small businesses can be helped – and hurt – by certain tax laws and other legislation.”

In conjunction with the LEAD effort, PPAI is encouraging all members of the industry to get involved this week by virtually meeting with members of Congress. All promotional products professionals can write letters, emails and social media posts to express the unique needs, challenges and interests of the industry to public officials. Click here for more information on the PPAI LEAD Virtual Fly-In effort.