Industry Insights: Tax Win Shows the Power of a Unified Voice

Consistent messaging from FEDA and other business advocacy groups pushed Congress to listen and act on much-needed tax relief in the reconciliation bill.

By Ryan Smith
President, Horizon Equipment
Member, FEDA Legislative and Regulatory Affairs Council

The recent passage of the budget reconciliation bill and its tax relief measures stands as a powerful example of what targeted, unified business advocacy can accomplish. In an era of political gridlock, this legislation’s approval proves that when businesses speak clearly and consistently, Congress listens and acts. For the foodservice equipment industry and the broader business community, this outcome is more than just policy — it’s a validation of our collective voice and persistence.

This success did not happen in a vacuum. It was the result of steady, strategic engagement by industry advocacy groups, including FEDA, who have worked diligently to ensure that lawmakers understand the financial realities facing businesses today. When FEDA members met with congressional leaders on Capitol Hill last March, tax relief was a central focus of our message. Our contingent of dealers and suppliers made the case directly to legislators and their staff that the tax code must evolve to support — not hinder — business investment and growth.

That message resonated. FEDA members highlighted how outdated depreciation rules, excessive compliance burdens and the expiration of key tax provisions were impacting not only the bottom line but also long-term planning and job creation. We underscored the urgency of restoring full expensing and other pro-growth provisions that allow businesses to invest in equipment and people. These conversations helped shape the legislative priorities that ultimately led to the passage of the bill.

Of course, in-person visits are only one part of a larger advocacy strategy. To amplify our voices throughout the year, FEDA has created a suite of advocacy tools, including priority action alerts that members can use to contact their senators and representatives. These alerts are simple to use but powerful in impact. They allow our community to speak with a coordinated voice and show lawmakers that these issues matter deeply to constituents and businesses in their districts.

When FEDA members take advantage of these tools, they send a clear signal that the foodservice equipment industry is watching and engaged. Whether it’s tax policy, regulatory issues or workforce development, lawmakers are more likely to act when they know a knowledgeable and organized industry is paying attention.

The passage of this tax relief legislation shows what’s possible when we work together. But the job isn’t done. As Congress continues to debate long-term tax reform and other economic issues, FEDA will stay on the front lines — and we encourage all our members to do the same.

I invite every FEDA dealer to stay involved in our advocacy efforts through the FEDA Advocacy Center at feda.quorum.us. There, you can find timely updates, track key legislation and use the association’s action alerts to reach your representatives and senators. Your participation strengthens our industry and ensures that the interests of foodservice equipment distributors remain a priority on Capitol Hill. Let’s keep the momentum going!