Florists to advocate for industry policies on Capitol Hill
Floral industry professionals will gather in Washington, D.C., on March 17-18 for the Society of American Florists’ (SAF) 44th Annual Congressional Action Days. Attendees will meet with lawmakers to advocate for policies affecting their businesses and the industry.
“Having industry members present on Capitol Hill is critical to ensuring lawmakers understand the real-world impact of their decisions,” said SAF senior lobbyist Joe Bischoff.
Key advocacy issues include securing affordable access to fresh floral products, maintaining funding for floriculture research, ensuring an affordable workforce, supporting business-friendly tax policies, and securing financial aid for floriculture growers.
SAF is urging Congress to reinstate the Generalized System of Preferences, which previously eliminated a 6.8% tariff on Ecuadorian roses, and to oppose tariffs that increase costs for businesses. The organization is also advocating for continued funding of the Floriculture & Nursery Research Initiative, which supports research on pest control, climate adaptation, and sustainability.
With labor shortages a major challenge, SAF is pushing for caps on wage increases in the H-2A visa program to ensure growers can afford seasonal workers. Additionally, the group is asking Congress to extend key tax deductions and maintain floriculture’s access to federal financial aid programs.
While the event is a focal point for advocacy, SAF emphasizes ongoing engagement with lawmakers through its political action committee and grassroots lobbying efforts.
Registration for CAD 2025 is now open. Click here for more information.
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