CAPITOL HILL VISIT

ARA’s 2015 Hill Day and Legislative Summit

Growing the Impact

Over 50 attendees came together in Washington, D.C. to discuss the state of the automotive recycling industry, and to share the industry with legislators.

meeting, the annual Legislative Summit and the Hill Day. During these sessions, members learned of Association issues, networked with colleagues from other states and countries about the status of professional automotive recycling in specific areas and educated their Members of Congress and staff about the industry.

A 50 Automotive Recycling | May-June 2015

An Audience with the Speaker: In a first-ever appear- ance to ARA members, attendees were inspired by a special guest, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives John A. Boehner (R-OH) who spoke about major issues confronting the nation and the importance of staying involved. Moreover, he enter- tained questions by the very appreciative group for over a half hour. It was indeed a special moment for the professional automotive recycling industry to be the focus of the Speaker’s remarks and ARA mem- bers now know that their issues are understood at the highest levels of the U.S. Congress. Fair Representation: ARA was proud to have 23 states represented, with over 50 individual members contributing to discussions in all three venues. Over 70 congressional visits took place with 25 of these meetings occurring with the actual Members of

Congress, not just staff. Many of these visits were with the same individuals as in past years, and ARA mem- bers heard repeatedly from their elected representa- tives how important it is for programs like our Hill Day event to continue to grow. In addition to ARA members talking with their congressional delegations about general industry issues and local concerns, they also educated policymakers on the need to have automakers provide parts data to all stakeholders in the automotive parts supply chain, especially in light of the ongoing and increasing recall campaigns by the manufacturers. ARA staff is now following up on the relationships that ARA members initiated and cultivated during these visits.

Thank you to all who contributed their time and effort to participating in these important events. More participation is encouraged next year.

RA members gathered in March to represent the automotive recycling indus- try on Capitol Hill. This annual trek was made by many who want to help initi- ate change and educate lawmakers on issues impacting their business. Over the past years, increasing headway has been made on behalf of the industry. This year, a surprise guest illustrated the attention that has been achieved, and the progress that is being made. The three-day event included the ARA Board

Eric Schulz