Catch Up with NGA Advocacy Days in DC!
Catch Up with NGA Advocacy Days in DC!
NGA hosted members, stakeholders from government agencies, and congressional members in DC, May 14-15, to discuss top policy priorities and to showcase how the industry contributes to the economy, the workforce and human health.
Jeff Grove, Vice President of Global Policy, Cooperation, and Communications at ASTM International, spoke to our 2024 Glass & Glazing Advocacy Days attendees. ASTM is a valued ally to NGA and we thank Jeff for his time and insight. One of Jeff's key takeaways was calling the development of the “forced entry resistance” standard with NGA a “great story” of collaboration between government and industry to ensure public safety. Learn more about the standard. Both NGA and ASTM are committed to improving the industry and the world through standards development.
On the energy and environment front, Doug Anderson, manager of the ENERGY STAR Windows Program at the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), visited with our attendees. He noted the agency currently has no plans to update requirements for the Energy Star Most Efficient category for 2025. Marc LaFrance, Windows Technology lead on two teams at the Department of Energy – the Emerging Technologies Team and the Residential Buildings Integration Team--presented virtually. He says the fenestration industry can help get out the message about the “value proposition of windows.” Read more on what's in store for high-performance windows and doors from Window + Door magazine.
Read a full event recap from Glass Magazine's Norah Dick.
See What Your Peers are Saying
"It was an eye-opening experience on The Hill, even getting a chance to meet with Merced, CA's representative John Duarte's office about the products manufactured in SAFTI FIRST Fire Rated Glazing Solutions facilities right in his district. There is still a lot to be done, but it's good to know that the glass industry is doing its part in affecting legislation that could lead to meaningful change. We are a passionate bunch with deep knowledge that our legislators need." - Diana San Diego, Safti First
"Great to meet and connect with so many in our industry, but fantastic opportunity to share the critical issues facing the glass and glazing world. We offer so much value in our products and services that benefit energy efficiency, decarbonization, sustainability, safety, resiliency, skilled trade job creation, and specialty benefits like bird safe glazing. Sharing our story and educating on the issues we face will help us make a broader impact." - Kyle Sword, NSG
"What a truly amazing group of people that I am humbled to participate with. This group made an impact today, for sure." Joe Kaiser, Herzog Glass
"It's inspiring to see so many passionate professionals here, and I'm eager to contribute to meaningful advancements in our field." Shakir Keskin, United Facade
Stay tuned for more updates, and follow NGA coverage on LinkedIn.
NGA thanks its hospitality sponsors for the event: Kuraray, Vitro and Guardian.
Policy Priorities
You can continue the conversation with your local legislators by reaching out to ask for their support on our priority topics and by inviting them to visit your facility. Download NGA’s Advocacy One-Pagers on these topics:
- High-Performance Windows Can Help Save the World
- School Security: Windows and Doors Respond First
- Saving Birds with Effective Glass Solutions
- Training and Upskilling Workers to Meet Labor Demand
Tips for communicating with your Congress members
- Address your communication to Member of Congress as Dear Senator/Representative (Last Name); address your communication to staffers as Mr./Ms. (Last Name).
- Be concise, factual, and courteous. Give them a brief background on your company’s products/services; let them know how many offices or plants you have in their district/state; let them know how many personnel you employ in their district/state.
- Invite them (now or in the future) to visit your facility/event/anniversary/hard hat tour in their district/state.
- Underscore the solution your company’s products/services provide and link to NGA’s one pager(s).
- Put a note on your calendar to follow up with these contacts on a regular basis so they get to know your company. Don’t forget, you can also visit Senators/Representatives at their local offices in your state/district.