TRSA and WATS Move Legislation Forward with Capitol Visits

TRSA members, along with members of the Wisconsin Association of Textile Services (WATS), recently participated in a Wisconsin Legislative Day to continue the momentum of allowing the linen, uniform and facility services industry to gain eligibility to utilize the manufacturing and agriculture tax credit (MATC), which would significantly reduce the industry’s tax liability. While sponsors in the Senate and Assembly have been identified, a legislative draft is waiting to be officially introduced.

The group went to the Wisconsin State Capitol building in Madison and visited with key legislative leaders including House Speaker Robin Vos, House Minority Leader Greta Neubauer and Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu.

“Policy is a contact sport,” said Sara Gunderson, attending on behalf of Gunderson Uniform and Linen, and member of both TRSA and WATS. “It is important to stay in front of the legislators to ensure action on our bill; the visits today were great.”

This is an effort to follow-up on last year’s legislation that led to substantive hearings in both the Wisconsin Assembly and Senate but fell short of getting a floor vote. Those that participated in the legislative visits found them important and informative.

“These visits are really making an impact; our conversations are changing from if our bill moves to when,” said Dave Jerrett, WATS Treasurer. “Since TRSA has taken over as the manager of WATS, not only has our policy agenda moved forward, but the networking and professional growth opportunities have improved immensely.”

TRSA Vice President of Government Relations Kevin Schwalb added that, “Doing these events is important in moving policy forward. I am excited that WATS has allowed TRSA to work as the association manager, it is a good opportunity for both organizations and makes the entire industry stronger. 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.”