NAFA Members Bring the Fleet Voice to Capitol Hill

Fifteen NAFA members from eleven states convened in Washington, D.C., June 9-10 for a strategic legislative fly-in featuring high-impact meetings with lawmakers. Members representing public and private sector fleets and industry suppliers participated in more than 30 meetings with congressional offices on both sides of the aisle. 

NAFA’s legislative counsel, HillStaffer, equipped NAFA members with the tools to advocate confidently on behalf of the industry. Before heading into meetings, attendees reviewed key policy issues and took part in a “Congressional Meetings 101” briefing, ensuring everyone was prepared to represent the fleet voice effectively. 

Throughout their time in D.C., NAFA members emphasized the practical, on-the-ground impact of federal policy on fleet operations. Attendees met directly with senators, representatives, and staffers to share real-world perspectives from their work, highlighting the vital connection between sound policy and effective fleet management.

One key element of the meetings was the focus on constituent voices. Lawmakers and their staff heard firsthand how issues such as EV incentives, infrastructure funding, data access, and equipment theft directly affect the people and businesses in their districts.  

Among the many policy topics discussed, one theme resonated clearly: the need for practical, sustainable solutions that empower fleets. From incentives for electric vehicle deployment to legislative efforts to curb catalytic converter theft, NAFA members helped spotlight the challenges and opportunities shaping today’s fleet environment. One particularly eye-opening moment came during discussions around data access and ownership—many congressional offices were unaware of the implications and appreciated NAFA’s insights on how the issue affects fleet operations, costs, and safety. 

The advocacy efforts were complemented by a networking lunch hosted at the offices of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), where individuals from allied organizations, including NTEA, Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition, and others, stopped by to meet NAFA attendees and further discuss the issues at hand. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Strong bipartisan support exists for measures like the PART Act to combat catalytic converter theft. 

• NAFA’s advocacy helped raise awareness on lesser-known issues like vehicle data access and ownership, with several offices noting they would examine the issue further. 

• The power of informed, local voices was clear—legislators responded positively to constituent engagement grounded in real-world experience. 

As the fleet industry continues to evolve, efforts like this fly-in underscore NAFA’s commitment to staying engaged and being proactive in shaping the policies vital in creating efficient, sustainable, and safe fleet operations.