Metalcasters have significant opportunities in the next few weeks to educate congressional lawmakers about the importance of the industry.
These opportunities are Congressional recesses, April 15-27 and May 27-31, when representatives and senators are back in their states and districts, as well as during the June AFS Government Affairs Fly-In in Washington, D.C.
This year’s Fly-In features Karl Rove, a former senior adviser and deputy chief of staff for President George W. Bush, who will share his perspective on our political situation.
AFS’ work in Washington is complimented by your work outside the Capital Beltway. Hosting plant tours is a vital step in building long-lasting relationships with your legislators and their staffs. The 2018 midterms saw 102 new legislators elected to the House and the Senate, and these new members and staffs have never been in a foundry. Foundry tours showcase your employees and your facility’s environmental, energy, and safety standards, and they drive elected officials to see the importance of metalcasting.
Key issues to highlight include your company’s history, including total investment in facilities and equipment; types of castings manufactured and sectors you supply; number of people employed in your plant; training programs; impact of U.S. trade policies; workforce challenges; and impact on your community.
OSCO Industries (Portsmouth, Ohio) welcomed Congressman Bill Johnson for a plant tour in October 2018. OSCO President Ryan Burke said these tours showcase the plant’s role in the local economy and community, and they allow manufacturers to explain to lawmakers how legislation affects their ability to compete, both in the U.S. and abroad.
“Even if they do not agree with everything you believe, at least you had the opportunity to explain your point of view and maybe they will take that into consideration the next time they vote on or propose a new law,” Burke said.
For information and assistance on hosting a congressional plant tour at your foundry, contact Stephanie Salmon in the AFS Washington Office at ssalmon@afsinc.org.