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August of Action is Over, But the Work Continues

Published in Government Relations on September 27, 2023

The VGM Government Relations team had one mission this August of Action, which was to work with members and assist them in connecting with as many elected officials as possible in their home states and districts. The primary focus of these meetings was to ask for support of HR. 5555 and S. 1294. These bills are both focused on avoiding huge cuts in reimbursement to members and will maintain the current product reimbursement through 2024. For those who may have missed it, Ronda Buhrmester and Craig Douglas previously released a podcast this summer, offering an in-depth exploration of S. 1294 and how important this legislation is to the industry. That podcast can be listened to here. 

Meetings Across the Heartland 

Throughout August, there were numerous meetings held and attended by VGM Government Relations and the members in that state to form relationships with grassroots advocates, establishing the groundwork for the advancement of these vital pieces of legislation. There were meetings with Iowa Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), and Zach Nunn (R-IA). Just before August, there was also a meeting with Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) at VGM headquarters.  

Iowa Meetings

Grassley/McCarthy

Other meetings

The VGM Government Relations team traveled to Arizona and Montana, collaborating with our members to engage Senators Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Steve Daines (R-MT), and Jon Tester (D-MT). More meetings were held with staffers from the offices of Senators Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) and James Langford (R-OK).  

In addition to face-to-face meetings, the team held virtual discussions with Rep. Ken Gordon (D-MA) and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).  

What’s next? 

Now, more than ever, it is crucial for individuals to reach out to their members of Congress and advocate for the passage of HR. 5555 and S. 1294. We urge you to take action. Click below for an easy way to connect with your members of Congress and make your voice heard. 

Message your Representative about H.R. 5555 MESSAGE YOUR SENATOR ABOUT S.1294

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  3. legislation
  4. state association
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