When it comes to effecting meaningful legislative and regulatory change for the convenience and fuel retailing industry, grassroots outreach is one of the most powerful tools at our disposal. A grassroots movement happens when members of the convenience store industry (retailers, suppliers, employees, etc.) reach out to their elected representatives to voice their support or opposition to a policy position. Mobilizing as a base can have a profound impact on the issues facing our industry and the way members of Congress weigh legislation. This may seem like an intimidating task, so we've provided three easy ways for you to engage with your lawmakers and get involved in the legislative process:
1. Connect with your legislators
Why? Being a legislator is a tough job when there are hundreds of policy issues under consideration in Congress. They depend on you to educate them about what is happening in their district and what legislation is most important to their constituents. Retailer engagement (through letters, emails, phone calls and social media) is essential to the long-term success of our industry.
Top: Sheetz CEO Joe Sheetz meets with Sen. Joe Manchin (WV). Middle: NACS members from Indiana meet with Rep. Jackie Walorski (IN-02). Bottom: From L to R, Bill Henry, Michael Jorgensen, Rep. Brian Mast (FL-18), Melanie Isbill, Ned Bowman, Brian Schaller.
Top: Rep. Bill Johnson (OH-06) poses with a happy patron at Speedway in Lore City, Ohio. Bottom: Rep. Mike Conaway (TX-11) uses a cashier till at Kent Kwik in Midland, Texas, during a NACS In Store visit.
How? The NACS grassroots engagement website is your first stop to help you educate members of Congress about your business and the industry. From our grassroots website, you can find more find information about your legislators and access ready-to-send letters on key industry issues. You also can take part in “calls to action,” where NACS pre-drafts an email for you to send to your representatives with just the click of a button. Check it out at www.votervoice.net/NACS/Campaigns. NACS also encourages direct outreach through phone calls. If you are unsure of who your representatives are, reach out to me at [email protected], and I can let you know who they are and provide talking points for calls.
2. NACS Day on the Hill
Why? Our annual Day on the Hill event allows you to meet face to face with your elected representatives and advocate on behalf of your business. Day on the Hill also educates you on the most pressing issues facing the industry, while providing you with the tools necessary to be a champion for your business.
How? Be a part of the conversation and help protect convenience across the country by attending next year’s conference! NACS Day on the Hill will take place March 10-12, 2020, in Washington, D.C. Registration is opening soon: Visit www.convenience.org/dayonthehill to pre-register.
3. NACS In Store
Why? The NACS In Store program gives members of Congress the perfect opportunity to experience how convenience stores serve constituents in their home states. Legislators will gain a better understanding and appreciation for not only the store but also the convenience and fuel retailing industry. For more information about NACS In Store events, visit www.convenience.org/NACSInStore.
How? If you would like to host a NACS In Store event with one of your legislators, please email me at [email protected].
Grassroots outreach is the future of politics. Our voice can only be as impactful as our members make it. By getting involved and being a part of the conversation in Washington, we can transform and revolutionize our industry!