Advocacy in Action: TRSA Hosts Kentucky Legislative Conf.

Every member company of TRSA that operates in the state was represented at TRSA’s inaugural Kentucky Legislative Conference in Frankfort, KY. The conference was developed to build legislative support to eliminate the double-taxation scheme charged to the linen, uniform and facility services industry.

The conference started with an issue brief session where the attendees heard about the origination of the legislation, learned who their respective state legislators are and how to discuss the issue during their legislative meetings. Afterward the attendees made their way to the capitol building and visited more than 30 legislative offices to gain support for the issue. Several of the “lobbyists” were able to meet with their actual legislators.

“It was a great experience,” said Phil Blanford, general manager, Cintas’ Lexington. “We received some very favorable feedback from the legislators.”

AJ Lucious, sales manager, Aramark, added that, “I’m confident our visits and presence made an impact as well. I’m sure this issue will be clarified.”

The next step is for legislation to be introduced, then draft language to eliminate the use tax can be attached and voted on.

“This is real democracy,” said TRSA President & CEO Joseph Ricci. “It is critical that TRSA continue to provide these opportunities for the industry to practice ‘shoeleather lobbying’ for the industry.”