2021 Congressional Fly-in Concludes

Earlier this week, nearly 50 executives from across the vinyl value chain gathered virtually to meet with Members of Congress (MOCs) to discuss several key issues that resonate across the industry. Throughout the course of the days, vinyl industry members were present at 56 meetings with 22 Democrats and 34 Republicans. The meetings we scheduled were targeted and specific so that our members had the opportunity to explain the importance of vinyl manufacturing in each congressional district.

This year, participants hit on three key issues: taxes, infrastructure, and how vinyl is offering climate change solutions. All three of these are key to the growth and success of our industry going forward.

Taxes

In several bills that have been introduced in recent weeks, legislation has unfairly singled out the chemicals and plastics industries, like a superfund tax on chlorine in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, and a tax on virgin plastic resin.

Vinyl value chain members shared with MOCs the importance of chlorine for public health, as it is an essential chemical for keeping drinking water safe, and it is also an essential disinfectant that kills COVID and other germs. And they also discussed that while the virgin plastic resin tax may be intended for single-use items, it would apply to all resin. And the tax would also create a perverse incentive to switch to alternative materials that have higher lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions.

Infrastructure

One of the biggest legislative bills of the year is the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which was especially timely to our fly-in, as legislators are expected to vote on it this week. This landmark piece of legislation would provide $55 billion in new funding for water and wastewater infrastructure, including the installation of PVC water and wastewater pipes. And it also included historic funding for electric vehicle readiness.

Our members shared our industry support of the bill and how these infrastructure improvements are essential for a more sustainable society. They also shared the sustainability benefits of PVC pipe, like increased durability and lifecycle performance, reduced energy use, and lowered costs for ratepayers.

Climate Change Solutions

Our final issue was not so much of a hard ask, but rather information about how vinyl is already offering climate change solutions and will continue to do so. Although we’re battling the notion that plastic-free future equates to an environmentally friendly one, but it was important that MOCs know that is simply not the case. You can read more about the climate change solutions that industry members discussed with MOCs by clicking here.

Congressional Champions

In addition to scheduled meetings, the VI also presented its Congressional Champion Award to Sens. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Tom Carper (D-DE) in recognition of their longstanding efforts to invest more in our nation’s infrastructure, especially water infrastructure.

The Congressional Champion Award was established by the VI in 2019 as a way to honor Members of Congress who advance legislation in the vinyl industry and in their states and districts; respond effectively to constituents’ needs and concerns; and support legislation that uses taxpayer dollars responsibly in addressing the critical needs of the nation and keeps our economy strong and thriving