The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National Association (PHCC) successfully concluded its 2025 Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., on May 21, with a day of critical advocacy efforts that will benefit contractors across the country.

More than 100 PHCC members, chapter leaders, and industry stakeholders gathered in the nation’s capital from May 20–21 to champion key issues affecting the plumbing, heating, and cooling industry. Attendees met with lawmakers to support federal workforce development programs, defend natural gas as a vital part of the U.S. energy mix, promote consumer choice, and advocate for pro-growth tax policies.

The conference opened with an executive policy forum, a newcomers' briefing for over 20 first-time participants, and a comprehensive legislative update from PHCC’s Government Relations Department. Lunchtime honors included a special recognition for long-time PHCC Member Butch McGonegal by PHCC of Virginia. Attendees also heard from former U.S. Congressman Tom Davis, who offered a strategic outlook on the current political landscape.

Industry collaboration was on full display at an evening Capitol Hill reception on May 20, where PHCC members networked with members from the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) and Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI). Despite inclement weather, PHCC contractors met face-to-face with lawmakers the following day to advocate for policies crucial to the industry.

The conference concluded with a reception that included a visit from Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN), a second-generation PHCC contractor, who shared insights into ongoing legislative efforts.

In a well-timed development, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R.1 — the “Big Beautiful Bill”— on the morning after the conference. The legislation includes several PHCC-supported tax measures, including:

• A permanent extension of the Section 199A pass-through income deduction
• Maintenance of higher estate tax exemption thresholds
• An extension of bonus depreciation with full expensing beyond 2026

“These legislative wins are a reminder of the power of grassroots advocacy and the strong presence PHCC can bring to Capitol Hill,” said Mark Valentini, PHCC vice president of legislative affairs. “Our unified voice is helping to shape policies that will reduce contractors' tax burdens and empower them to reinvest in their businesses and workforce.”

The bill now heads to the Senate, where PHCC will continue to push for final passage of these vital tax provisions.