NRCA goes to Washington for a Day of Roofing Advocacy

By Adam Cabrera 

Roofing Day is a valuable opportunity for industry professionals to directly communicate their issues to legislators. 

In a recent episode of the Roofing Road Trips podcast, hosts Heidi J. Ellsworth and James Ellsworth chat with Deborah Mazol from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). Deborah dives deep into the advocacy event, Roofing Day in D.C., shedding light on how the roofing industry works with Washington to raise awareness about crucial issues. 

Started as a bright idea by former NRCA CEO Reid Ribble in 2018, Roofing Day is more than just an NRCA event. The occasion ensures that the roofing industry's narrative doesn't get lost in the congressional hustle and allows different industry professionals to meet face-to-face with legislators. After all, as Deborah says, "If we're not there telling it, somebody else is there telling their story." 

Deborah also assures us that their focus isn't skewed towards a particular political party. Instead, the effort is bipartisan, aimed at representing the industry's issues well. 

This year's Roofing Day agenda zeroed in on three key issues: tax reform, workforce development and immigration. Deborah and the NRCA are advocating for the Main Street Tax Certainty Act, aiming to make the 199A business deduction permanent for pass-through entities, accounting for 75% of NRCA members. She states, "What does that mean for our members? You can invest more in your community, you can invest more in charity. You can invest more in your employees." 

In addition, they are seeking funding for the Department of Energy's Building Technologies Office, encouraging energy efficiency in the roofing industry. Immigration reform and funding for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and Perkins State Grants are also on the table, addressing the industry's workforce shortage. 

"Roofing Day," according to Deborah, "is a great one-and-a-half-day commitment. It's really valuable to let [legislators] know about the issues facing you day in and day out." Being able to meet in person and learn about these topics, attendees are sure to be well-prepared to advocate for the industry. 

Tune into the Roofing Road Trips podcast for more insights into Roofing Day and other significant NRCA advocacy areas.