Committees in both chambers of Congress are holding hearings this week related to the ongoing tariff actions. In the Senate, the Finance Committee is holding a hearing, Trade and Commerce at U.S. Ports of Entry, at 2:30 pm EDT Wednesday, and in the House of Representatives, the Ways and Means Committee is holding its hearing, The Effects of Tariffs on U.S. Agriculture and Rural Communities, at 2 pm Wednesday.
Last week, the Senate passed a nonbinding resolution that would mandate congressional approval for tariffs related to national security issues, and the House introduced a bill with the same intent. As Congress begins to consider oversight regarding the ongoing tariff actions, members of the promotional products industry are urged to educate their legislators about the impact of the tariffs on industry companies.
PPAI is on the record opposing any tariff proposals; due to the rise in consumer prices that results when tariffs are applied to products, tariffs are effectively a tax on consumers. In May, members of Congress heard this message from 80 volunteers during PPAI L.E.A.D., and you can send the same message to your legislators without having to set up a meeting. PPAI LAW has a series of pre-populated letters that can be sent to your member of Congress. Just click here to inform your elected officials about the negative impact tariffs would have on the promotional products industry.
With Congress’ annual August recess approaching, industry professionals also have an opportunity to meet with legislators and their staffers to discuss the economic impact of the tariffs, and the importance of the promotional products industry. These meetings can take place in a variety of ways, including in-person visits, attendance at various town hall events and inviting the legislator on a tour of work facilities. For information about identifying your member of Congress and contacting them for a meeting, PPAI’s August Recess Advocacy page offers all the tools necessary to plan and execute these initiatives.
