Last year, first-time CAD attendee Molly Meulenbroek arrived a little apprehensive of the process, but she received a thorough briefing from SAF’s government relations team. “It turned out to be a truly empowering experience to know my voice was heard,” she said.
Every voice counts when it comes to persuading legislators to consider the industry’s concerns. That’s why the Society of American Florists invites you to lobby with us, sharing your business stories, during the 38th Annual Congressional Action Days, March 12-13, in Washington, D.C.
Skeptical anyone in Congress actually cares? Two legislative victories last year prove otherwise. Less than four months after florists asked their representatives to allot $250,000 to the Floriculture and Nursery Research Initiative, the House Appropriations Committee wrote a recommendation doubling that amount. Additionally, members’ warnings that a proposed border adjustment tax would cause the price of flowers to spike and devastate Main Street retailers brought it to a halt. And their efforts renewed the call for comprehensive immigration reform.
Among those who helped make a difference: first-time attendee Molly Meulenbroek. The manager of Studley Flower Gardens in Rochester, New Hampshire, arrived a little apprehensive of the process, but received a thorough briefing from SAF’s government relations team. “I felt well prepared,” she said. “It turned out to be a truly empowering experience to know my voice was heard.”
Long-time participant, SAF Chairman Martin Meskers, AAF, has built many relationships with congressmen, senators and their staff over the years, inviting them to his greenhouses in Aurora, Oregon for tours and fundraisers. “As an immigrant and small business owner, it’s a powerful opportunity to take your suit out of the closet, pack your bag, fly to D.C. and walk the halls of Congress with your peers, discussing what impacts the floral industry.”
The cut-off date for guaranteeing the SAF room rate at the CAD hotel is Feb. 16. The early-bird registration fee is $295 for members and $395 for non-members by Feb. 23. Your registration includes an additional FREE registration for a second person from your company who has never attended CAD before. For details and to register, visit safnow.org/congressional-action-days.
