Washington Caucus
Building from our state event, the ARA of California was well-represented at the ARA-sponsored 2008 National Legislative Caucus held in Washington D.C., April 28-30. Seven members from California participated, with more than 80 ARA members from 32 state associations representing the rental industry.
The Caucus was an effective way to share ARA’s stance on issues affecting rental in California and nationally. This key event included extending the ARA and ARA of CA policy messages to individual California Congressional members. California has 55 members representing our state in both houses of Congress.
“It is critical that California be involved in ARA’s caucus and go to Washington D.C. to visit our national representatives,” said Steve Anthony, American Rentals, Stockton, ARA of CA president. “We need to keep California and national industry interests top of mind. It’s important that we continue to build relationships with the members and their staff, but also take the time to educate new staff about our industry and tell them how the policies they promote affect our businesses.” In addition to Anthony, others representing California were: Chris Smith, Cresco Equipment Rentals, Livermore; Bridget Doherty, Cal-West Rentals, Petaluma; Patricia Sarris, A Party Center, San Rafael; Doug Fleury, Rebel Rents, Temecula; Brian Maginnis, American Rentals, Long Beach; and ARA Region Nine Director Ted Cook, Ventura Rental Center, Ventura. Don Cruikshank served as the ARA of California’s legislative chairman and coordinated many of the events, but due to unforeseen family concerns, wasn’t able to attend.
The ARA of California was one of 16 state associations that helped financially sponsor the national caucus.
