The Geosynthetic Materials Association (GMA) continues to make significant strides toward increasing the industry’s exposure in Washington, D.C. Many members of Congress are now advocating for our industry, in large part, due to GMA’s government relations efforts along with the support and involvement of GMA members.
It is critical that GMA members continue to educate members of Congress about national issues that affect companies within their districts and states. GMA appreciates the hard work of our members and will continue to be a strong industry advocate.
GMA will conduct its Spring Lobby Day April 26-27, 2016.
The following issues and action items will be addressed during the event:
- Thank members of Congress for passing the transportation FAST Act last year, which included language supporting the use of geosynthetic materials.
- Highlight the life cycle costs and benefits of incorporating innovative geosynthetic materials in pavements and other construction applications.
- Emphasize the benefits of using geosynthetic liners in coal ash waste and other environmental sites.
- Continue relationship development with members of Congress and their staff members.
- Push for renewal of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) and the passage of a well-funded FAA bill.
How to attend
There is no registration fee for GMA members to attend GMA Lobby Day, but members are asked to register so there is an accurate attendance count. A fee of $1,000 is collected from non-members. Please register ASAP to ensure effective scheduling of meetings with your congressional delegation.
Schedule of Events
Tuesday, April 26
3–5 p.m. GMA Executive Council meeting
Residence Inn Downtown
1199 Vermont Ave. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005
(Open to GMA Executive Council members only)
6–9 p.m. GMA briefing dinner
Old Ebbitt Grill
675 15th St. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005
All Lobby Day participants are invited to the GMA dinner. The dinner will begin with a summary of GMA activities and a presentation by a special guest. GMA’s lobbying firm, Whitmer & Worrall, will provide participants with a briefing on the following day’s activities and an overview of the current state of politics in Washington, D.C. Each participant will receive a folder containing information for their individual or group visits with their congressional delegation, including meeting times and locations.
Note: Special GMA dinner guest to speak around 6:15 p.m.
Dinner served around 7 p.m.
Wednesday, April 27
7:45 a.m. Kickoff and continental breakfast at Whitmer & Worrall
Whitmer & Worrall
1000 Vermont Ave. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005
Starting at 9 a.m. All day meetings on Capitol Hill
Concluding at 5 p.m. Optional debrief at Whitmer & Worrall
Hotel Information
GMA has a hotel room block of 25 nights at the Marriott Residence Inn Downtown (1199 Vermont Ave. N.W., within walking distance to Whitmer & Worrall).
Mention that you are with “GMA Spring Lobby Days” to reserve your room in the set block on or before Wednesday, March 30, 2016.
Price: $249 – Includes complimentary internet and continental breakfast
Call: 1-800-331-3131 or 202-898-1100
Marriott Residence Inn Downtown
1199 Vermont Ave. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005