Retailers must realize that the battle against threatening legislation
and taxes will become more difficult in years to come. The retail
industry must maintain its unity and strength at the grassroots
level to wage those battles successfully. Our strength lies in our
members being a unified front with a well heard voice.
The Virginia Retail Merchants Association was ranked 18th for most
effective lobbies out of hundreds of lobbying groups. This ranking
is based on a study published in January 2001 by the Virginia Business
Magazine, who polled the Virginia State Legislators.
| Lobbying |
For more than 95 years, the VRMA's primary focus
has been to represent the retail industry before the Virginia
General Assembly and the United States Congress to ensure the
retail voice is heard and to protect retail interests. The VRMA
lobbying staff maintains a strong presence during the General
Assembly and often partners with other like-minded organizations
to build broad coalitions that effectively promote a better
environment for all businesses. |
| Day On the Hill |
This single day event brings retailers together
as a unified front to lobby the General Assembly. Our lobbyists
will brief you on the issues and bills of concern then in small
groups you will visit the Delegates and Senators from your area.
This method of lobbying by our members has proven very effective. |
| Legislative Reception |
The VRMA hosts this event with other like minded
organizations during session to allow our members to meet their
state legislators and discuss their concerns. All members of
the General Assembly are invited and this event is well attended
|
| Grassroots Lobbying |
The VRMA staff provides members information and
aids to assist in doing their own lobbying with local Legislators
and/or Congressional Representatives. The VRMA will supply copies
of bills and names of bill sponsors and others who may be instrumental
in determining a bills outcome. |
| Legislator of The Year
Award |
During our Annual Meeting we honor a Senator or
a Delegate that has voted with the business community. Legislators
are ranked based on their voting record on issues affecting
or relating to the business climate in Virginia. |
| Toll-free Hotline |
For the convenience of our members, the VRMA provides
a toll-free hotline at 800-232-VRMA. Staff members are prepared
to answer questions regarding the retail industry, legislative
events and member services. |
| Legislative Hotline |
Contacting any Legislator to the Virginia General
Assembly for information on legislation or with an opinion is
encouraged by calling the General Assembly's own hotline during
session at 800-889 0229 (in Richmond, call 225-4973). |
| VARPAC |
Pro-retail state policy starts by electing pro-retail
state legislators. The VRMA's political action committee, VARPAC,
helps do just that. VARPAC is a nonpartisan committee organized
to endorse candidates who have proven their support for a free
market economy; assures retailing's survival and growth by electing
state legislators dedicated to creating a healthy retail environment;
and promotes the visibility of the VRMA in legislative circles.
VARPAC is funded by member contributions and by annual fundraising
activities. |
| Annual Members Meeting |
The VRMA's annual membership meeting provides
opportunities for professional, legislative and personal growth.
All members are encouraged to participate in this informative
and educational meeting. |
