Why ABA needs you to get involved in the legislative process
ABA members recently had a chance to meet with congressmen on issues important to the motorcoach tour and travel industry. While ABA is working with lawmakers on a daily basis, it is also important for ABA members to get involved. Our efforts help ensure that our nation’s elected officials have a better understanding of the critical issues our industry is facing.
Ron Moore, president of ABA member Burlington Trailways in West Burlington, Iowa, has attended several Fly-In events and knows the difference our collective voice makes on Capitol Hill. The Insider had an opportunity to ask Ron about his experience at the 2017 Fly-In on May 4:
Q. Have you attended Fly-Ins in the past?
A. I have attended more than 10 Fly-Ins. This year I brought my son, Matthew, the vice president of Burlington Trailways, with me. I think it is important to involve the next generation so they know what work has been done and what still needs to be done to accomplish our goals.
Q. What made you want to attend the Fly-In?
A. As a member of the ABA board of directors, I felt it was necessary to be present at the Fly-In to demonstrate how important in-person communication can be for our industry. It is important that we continue to visit with our senators and congressmen and their staff to voice our thoughts and concerns about legislation that will affect our businesses.
Q. What elected officials did you meet with?
A. I met very briefly with Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, but we were unable to discuss business. I had meetings with Will Collier of Rep. Dave Loebsack’s office; Andrea Hechavarria of Sen. Ernst’s office; and Sherry Kuntz of Sen. Chuck Grassley’s office.
Q. Of all of ABA’s objectives (security grant funding, tax reform importance, lease and interchange, travel ban, fees at national parks, interchange rules and tax reform affecting motorcoaches) which one is most important to you?
A. I had a chance to discuss lease and interchange, fuel taxes, security grants, and the travel ban. The most important issue to me is lease and interchange.
Q. What was your favorite part of the event?
A. I enjoyed getting to meet everyone and having the chance work on our common challenges together.