WATS/TRSA Moves Legislation with Capitol Visits

The Wisconsin Association of Textile Services (WATS), along with TRSA, recently conducted a Wisconsin Legislative Conference to build support for legislation that would allow the linen, uniform and facility services industry to be recognized as a recycler and manufacturer.  During the Capitol visits, the delegation met with targeted Wisconsin state legislators such as Sens. Devin Lemahieu and Rob Hutton, and Reps. David Murray and Dave Maxey.

The delegation was successful in finding a chief sponsor of legislation in both the state senate and state assembly. The next step is to get the legislation drafted for introduction. The industry stands to save a significant amount of money if the legislation gets enacted.

“This conference shows the importance of grassroots advocacy,” said Jim Leef, WATS President. “I am happy TRSA is involved in the process and brings a level of professionalism to the table important in these efforts.”

During the conference, the participants heard from TRSA’s Vice President of Government Relations Kevin Schwalb and Evan Umpir from the Wisconsin Manufacturers and Chamber discussing policy issues impacting the industry across the country and in Wisconsin. In all, the delegation visited 19 legislative offices.

“This is democracy at its most basic level,” said Joseph Ricci, TRSA President & CEO “TRSA is committed to advocate and protect the linen, uniform and facility services industry and is happy to partner with WATS to achieve that mission.”

The Wisconsin Legislative Conference is an example of how TRSA is working with regional linen, uniform and facility services associations to expand their advocacy footprint.