Independent dealers spent Monday evening visiting with more than a dozen members of the U.S. Congress at the Capitol Hill Club.
The Legislative Reception capped the first night of the NIADA Policy Conference in Washington, D.C., and gave dealers an opportunity to engage lawmakers on issues facing the independent auto industry.
“They all were supportive of the association and want to learn about our issues,” said Greg Zak of Dixon Motors in Houston, Texas.
The legislators at the reception were Steve Womack (Arkansas), Gary Palmer (Alabama), Morgan Griffith (Virginia), Buddy Carter (Georgia), Michelle Fischbach (Minnesota), Mike Collins (Georgia), Greg Murphy (North Carolina), John Joyce (Pennsylvania), Bob Latta (Ohio), Beth Van Duyne (Texas), Monica De La Cruz (Texas), Russell Fry (South Carolina) and Ralph Norman (South Carolina).
The lawmakers went around the room and visited with constituents.
“I mentioned the Right to Repair and Catalytic Converter thefts to them,” said Tim Ehde of Carhop in Minneapolis, Minnesota. “They want to learn and get our perspective.”
Womack addressed the dealers.
“It’s a great privilege to be here. Thanks for the work you do,” Womack said. “We have a lot in common. We’re fighting the same regulatory environment. We’re grateful for your support and the shared vision.”
Robbie Case of Roberts Auto Sales in Hartselle, Alabama, appreciated the opportunity to talk to the lawmakers.
“I’ve been coming the last eight to nine years. It’s a good experience,” Case said. “They know we are here to not only help us but also to help consumers. We want to help them understand what’s going on in the real world.”
The Day on the Hill is Wednesday when dealers will hold meetings with members of both chambers of Congress.
See pictures from Monday’s reception here.
