At MRAA’s Dealer Week, there is no shortage of learning opportunities and events to keep you busy. And that was especially true this past December at our inaugural stop in Austin, where there was even more to do in the name of exploring. Austin, known as the live music capital of the world, played an excellent host, offering a myriad of bars and live music on Rainey Street, and great place for friends and colleagues to reconnect. In fact, it was MRAA’s first live conference in more than 725 days. For me, it was
wonderful to see everyone at the BoatPAC reception!
The BoatPAC reception was held the night of Tuesday, Dec. 7 at the Moonshine Bar and Grill. The reception invited Dealer Week attendees to reconnect and help raise money for the BoatPAC. This reception produced our largest attendance to date with more than 100 guests. We raised $4,000 for the PAC! I want to personally thank all our attendees for supporting our advocacy efforts. This includes a special thank you to Yamaha, Smoker Craft, Correct Craft and the Mount Dora Boating Center for sponsoring this event. The massive turnout at the reception shows there is an appetite to support MRAA’s advocacy efforts and get involved.
I know that not everyone may understand what BoatPAC is and why it’s contributions are important. BoatPAC is a political action committee (PAC) and is used to support members of Congress and candidates running for public office. BoatPAC is special though, as we are the only PAC focused on furthering the goals of the U.S. recreational boating industry. The contributions made through BoatPAC keep MRAA and our partners at the table and our priorities top of mind with key decision makers. Since its inception BoatPAC has been instrumental in elevating the issues of the boating industry. Below are just a few examples of our recent successful efforts:
-Delivered $100 million in Paycheck Protection Program funding
-Passed Great American Outdoors Act, investing billions in outdoor recreation access projects
-Secured mandatory wear of engine cutoff devices
-Ensured $850 million for Everglades and Great Lakes Restoration
-Provided $25 million in tariff relief
We are already starting to plan our event for next year’s Dealer Week and I hope that the turnout is even larger! Despite these concrete policy wins, the biggest impact of the BoatPAC is in keeping the boating industry relevant with key decision makers. If you are curious about learning more about BoatPAC, head to the Boating United website or email Erica Crocker or Chad Tokowicz to schedule a time to talk.
