ABI Members Bring Iowa’s Voice to Washington, D.C.

Members of ABI traveled to Washington, D.C., September 16–18 for the bi-annual D.C. Fly-In, connecting directly with Iowa’s congressional delegation and federal partners on key policy issues.

Over three days, ABI members met with U.S. Senators Joni Ernst and Charles  Grassley and Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Randy Feenstra, Ashley Hinson, and Zach Nunn. Discussion topics ranged from workforce development and tax policy to infrastructure and trade — all critical to sustaining Iowa’s strong business climate.

The delegation also attended briefings with the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the Business-Industry Political Action Committee (BIPAC), and the U.S. Small Business Administration, gaining insight into national policy trends that affect Iowa businesses.

The Fly-In is an important opportunity for our members to build relationships with policymakers and advocate for commonsense policies that support Iowa’s economy. However, it is just one part of ABI’s robust public policy engagement. Members also shape policy through committees, legislative events, political action, and voter engagement.

Public Policy Committees: Members help develop ABI’s annual Business Agenda, which guides advocacy during the legislative session. Committees cover employment and workforce, workplace and product safety, economic growth, environment, and tax policy, giving members a platform to bring issues forward and collaborate on solutions.

Legislative Events: ABI hosts signature events like the Legislative Briefing and Reception in January and Business Day on the Hill in March. Monthly Legislative Update Teleconferences and regional meetings provide members with timely updates and opportunities to weigh in on pressing issues.

Political Action: Through the Iowa Industry Political Action Committee (IIPAC) and the Iowans for Jobs Initiative, members support candidates who understand the importance of a pro-business climate. Building relationships around a strong business climate helps position ABI as a trusted voice for important policies effecting our membership.

ABI’s D.C. Fly-In shows how members can make their voices heard at the federal level. Combined with committee work, legislative events, and political action, ABI provides a full spectrum of opportunities for members to actively influence the policies shaping Iowa’s business climate. ABI