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A Most Important, but Often Overlooked, Member BenefitPosted 6/7/1999By John Mock, AAM Far too often, this member benefit is under-appreciated or totally overlooked. I can tell you with complete certainty, however, that our profession would be radically different if it were not for ASA continually raising its voice in both Washington, D.C., and all 50 state capitols. ASA is the only association representing the independent collision and mechanical profession that has a legislative and regulatory office in Washington, D.C. Our legislative representative, Robert Redding, works tirelessly making certain you have a place at the table anytime there are discussions on issues related to manufacturing, servicing and repairing automobiles. ASA serves on state and federal government advisory committees including, but not limited to, the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It is on these committees that we frequently exert the greatest influence because it is here that future agendas are set. Typically, a relatively small number of individuals are making decisions about what those future agendas will entail. By being one of those individuals, Mr. Redding keeps your interests on the forefront. ASA monitors legislation in all states. On the ASA Web site we publish and keep current the status of all bills that, if implemented, could impact your business. (Members Only Area) Many times, we initiate grassroots campaigns to involve members in efforts to influence their local elected leaders. If your shop is in Arizona, Pennsylvania, Alabama or Florida, you have most likely been contacted by ASA this year and asked to call your congressional representatives. Our members and Bob Redding often participate in government hearings, offering testimony and research assistance. In addition to the Web site, ASA issues several publications covering current laws, regulations and pending legislation, including: State Observer, Washington Watch and yearly state-by-state analyses of safety inspection and emission inspection regulations. ASA works to keep industry professionals informed and involved in the legislative process by writing news releases on major legislative and regulatory activity. Last year, more than 100 such releases were issued from our Washington, D.C., office. Other means that ASA uses to protect your future include being active in many national coalitions impacting both mechanical and collision repairers. ASA sponsors industry summits on major issues such as anti-steering, replacement crash parts and point-of-sale for paint products. We're also actively pursuing a future industry summit on information availability. Additionally, we meet face-to-face with policymakers and lawmakers to make certain they are fully informed before making decisions that will impact your business. Your association is the only national association that takes on these issues and battles for you. No other representative group is addressing the concerns of independent repairers head on with those individuals and agencies who have the final decision on such matters.
The results of these efforts are substantial. Undoubtedly, your life would be much different (worse) if not for these efforts of ASA.
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Copyright (c) 1996-2008. Automotive Service Association. All rights reserved.
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One of the most basic, yet important, reasons for having an association is to represent its members and their concerns in the halls of Congress. As an ASA member, your concerns are being very well represented.
