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While a strong lobbying group in Washington is important, the real power of any industry resides in the activism of its individual members. The aftermarket, with its over 2 million employees and over $250 billion in annual sales, has the potential to be an extremely powerful force in our Nation's capital. But, it takes a lot of grassroots momentum to accomplish legislative or regulatory goals.
You are the most effective lobbyist for your industry and your issues, and getting your voice heard in Washington is not as difficult or time-consuming as you think. You vote for your representatives, and it's your voice and your experiences that can help guide their decisions- if you make your voice heard. AAIA has a variety of programs to help industry members become more politically active and accomplish their goals. Click on the links below for more information.
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Visit AAIA's New Legislative Action Center to contact your elected representatives about these hot issues affecting the automotive aftermarket.
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This biannual event provides an opportunity for aftermarket professionals to come to Capitol Hill to meet with key congressional leaders about issues that affect and impact their businesses.
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AAIA's Automotive Aftermarket Political Action Committee (AAPAC) provides members with an easy, powerful way to get personally involved in the political process.
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Stop the Air Resources Board from Mandating a 15 year/150,000 Mile Warranty
Click for a sample letter send to the Air Resources board
In addition to participating in AAIA's activities, there are other things you can do to promote your issues and support your business and in the political arena.
1. Get politically active! Vote in every election, and vote smart. Find out in advance of election day who the candidates are and where they stand on issues that are important to your business. Give money directly to candidates who support your business' interests, donate to a Political Action Committee that represents your interests, or volunteer your time. Candidates remember who helped get them elected and that will help you make your views known.
2. Get to know your elected representatives! Don't wait until you have a burning issue that needs to be addressed! Meet with them when they are in your district, or if you are in DC, and spend time discussing your business and some of the issues that you face every day. That way when you do have a burning issue, the legislator knows your business and you have credibility.
3. Keep your employees educated on the issues affecting your business! Encourage them to write or communicate with elected officials on important issues. Surveys have shown that employees trust the political information provided by their employers. Further, encourage them to vote and share with them the information you gather on candidates who support your legislative interests.
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