Last week 63 distributor and manufacturer member companies of HARDI (Heating, Airconditioning and Refrigeration Distributors International) spoke directly with their United States congressional representation in Washington, D.C., about important issues facing the HVACR industry at the annual HARDI Congressional Fly-In.

In addition to holding more than 170 private meetings with Congressional representatives and key staffers from their districts, HARDI members also heard from U.S. Sen. Richard Burr, R-NC and U.S. Sen. Rand Paul, R-KY, in exclusive appearances for Fly-In participants.

Among the issues covered were the Estate Tax, REINS Act, Natural Gas Act (H.R. 1380), extension of the 25(c) Tax Credit, and the preservation of LIFO. Voicing their concerns as small business owners and unified by their collective affiliation with HARDI, participants were able to make strong and effective arguments on these issues, benefiting the entire HVACR industry by helping to shape the ever-changing legislation influencing the long-term health of the industry and wholesale distribution.

“The HARDI Congressional Fly-In continues to grow each year, both in member participation and our influence in Washington,” said Executive VP and COO of HARDI Talbot Gee. “With more than 170 personal stories told on Capitol Hill, our members really made their voice heard on key issues that will help our industry grow and prosper for years to come.”

Also speaking at the Fly-In was Kristin Nelson, senior staff member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. Nelson discussed the Committee’s recently launched website www.americanjobcreators.com where small business owners can communicate directly to the Committee about regulations that can impede their growth.

HARDI members held a luncheon in the historic House Committee of Agricultural meeting room in the Longworth House Office Building thanks to the sponsorship of U.S. Rep. Bob Gibbs, R-Ohio.