The Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) hosted a successful Congressional Fly-in event in Washington, D.C., from May 21-22, 2024. The event witnessed a remarkable turnout as HARDI member companies with locations in 34 states converged on Capitol Hill to participate in 137 congressional meetings to advocate for the HVACR industry.

HARDI’s Congressional Fly-in is meant to educate and influence elected officials about the impact of policy on the HVACR industry. HARDI members engaged in 39 Senate meetings and 98 House meetings, emphasizing the significance of legislative action to propel the sector forward.

A highlight of the event was the address by Representative Debbie Lesko (AZ-8), who not only spoke to the attendees but also received the Champion of Small Business Award for her unwavering support and dedication to promoting small business interests. Representative Lesko is the sponsor of the SMART Energy Efficiency Standards Act (H.R. 4378).

Key issues discussed during HARDI’s Congressional Fly-in event included advocating for tax certainty through initiatives like the Main Street Tax Certainty Act (H.R. 4721, S. 1706) and the TCJA Permanency Act (H.R. 976/S. 1226). The group also reviewed the outcomes and importance of HARDI’s lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency, which successfully stopped the agency’s overreach in regulating the industry.

Additionally, the event brought focus on the need for Congressional oversight of regulations, with the U.S. Senate passing a Joint Resolution of Congressional Disapproval for DOE’s Energy Conservation Standards for Consumer Furnaces (S. J. Res. 58) with bipartisan votes during the Congressional Fly-in. 

HARDI members also rallied around issues such as the HFC Phasedown, a critical component of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act, showcasing their commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation within the HVACR sector.

"We are thrilled with the success of this year's Congressional Fly-in event," remarked Alex Ayers, vice president of government affairs for HARDI. "The level of engagement and support from our members underscores the importance of advocating for policies that foster growth, innovation, and sustainability within the HVACR industry. We are grateful to all the representatives and senators who took the time to meet with us and discuss these crucial issues."