“Many of your hopes are dependent upon the policies adopted by Congress. Ask your lawmakers to support policies that benefit your benefit. Your ability to hire people, keep trucks on the road, etc., comes back to advocacy,” Craig Purser, president/CEO, National Beer Wholesalers Association, said during NBWA’s first virtual Legislative Conference.
When the pandemic started NBWA shifted its priorities to make sure beer wholesalers were deemed essentials, Purser said. A lot has happened since then in the political election, and elections often result in a change of priorities as new leaders take control. This year we have a new president, new congressional committee chairs, new administration officials.
Purser ticked off five reasons why this conference was particularly important:
- With the nation divided in ways we haven’t been before, protests stop being a virtue when individuals cross the line and become rioters. “We have a duty to engage in the democratic process responsibly. Participation in this conference demonstrates to members of Congress that responsible public advocacy can’t be derailed,” he said.
- This year’s topics for Congress include alcohol regulation in the U.S.; federal tax policy and advancing policies that will get more drivers changed to address the driver labor shortage.
- NBWA is also opposed alcohol shipping through USPS. “Your letter carrier shouldn’t be your bartender.”
- CBD and marijuana policy.
- Obtaining a tax credit for expired food and beverage.