Aftermarket to Address Controversial Issues at 2005 Legislative Summit

More than 200 aftermarket industry representatives from across the nation are gearing up to attend the 2005 Aftermarket Legislative Summit on March 1-2 in Washington, D.C., according to the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). The Legislative Summit gives representatives of the aftermarket the opportunity to provide policymakers withy the information they need to make educated and informed decisions about issues that impact the aftermarket.

BETHESDA, MD — More than 200 aftermarket industry representatives from across the nation are gearing up to attend the 2005 Aftermarket Legislative Summit on March 1-2 in Washington, D.C., according to the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). The Legislative Summit gives representatives of the aftermarket the opportunity to provide policymakers withy the information they need to make educated and informed decisions about issues that impact the aftermarket.

Major issues to be highlighted during this year’s Summit include: The Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act; association health plans; anti-counterfeiting; and asbestos litigation reform legislation.

“The Aftermarket Legislative Summit is an exciting opportunity for members of the aftermarket to sit down with their Representatives and Senators in Washington to discuss the issues that impact our industry,” said Aaron Lowe, AAIA vice president, government affairs. “There is no better way for members of the aftermarket industry to learn about, and have an impact upon, public policy.”

Large numbers of legislators and staff are expected to attend the legislative reception on Capitol Hill on the evening of March 1. The Aftermarket Legislative Summit will begin on March 2 with an issue briefing at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Attendees will hear first hand from a federal legislator and aftermarket industry experts about issues that impact businesses, as well as an update on the political landscape in the 109th Congress and how changes in Washington could impact our industry.

“Interest in the Legislative Summit has been growing and we expect the upcoming Summit to generate an even greater awareness of our industry on Capitol Hill,” Lowe said.

Co-sponsors of the Summit include: Alliance of Automotive Service Providers, Alliance of State Automotive Aftermarket Associations, Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association, Coalition for Auto Repair Equality, Heavy Duty Distribution Association, Service Station Dealers of America and Tire Industry Association.

For additional information on the Summit or to register online, visit: www.aftermarket.org/events/legislative_summit/legislative_summit.asp, or contact Aaron Lowe at 301-654-6664.

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