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NAMA announces virtual advocacy summit, 'fly-out' legislative assistance

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April 28, 2020

The National Automatic Merchandising Association will host a virtual advocacy summit this year with lawmakers rather than the usual fly-in to Washington, D.C. July 20-22, according to a press release.

"This year, NAMA is bringing Washington to you," NAMA President and CEO Carla Balakgie said in a video message shared over the weekend. "As we all know, this year is not business as usual. Given these unprecedented times, we're recommending an approach that delivers the same level of value, but in a new way."

Through a virtual platform, July 20–22, NAMA will present interactive meetings with key regulators. These panel discussions allow members to engage during the live airings, or when their schedules permit.

The second component of the plan: NAMA "Fly-Out." Beginning the week of Aug. 5, and throughout election day, NAMA staff will conduct meetings with members of Congress in the communities throughout the country.  

"Wherever possible, NAMA staff will come to you, to help lead discussions with elected officials," Balakgie continued. "This approach accomplishes a key goal, perhaps more important now than ever before: it saves you, our members, travel time and travel costs. Just as important, the fly-out will provide the unique opportunity for smaller, more personal meetings with your congressman or congresswoman. This allows for your voice to be heard and enables you to build these important relationships in your home state and in some cases, right onsite at your business." 

For an update on how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting the convenience services industry, click here.