One of GFIA’s major goals is to ensure that our members connect with their locally elected officials.  When actively lobbying members of the General Assembly it truly helps when legislators are able to put an issue with the name and face of a person that the legislation may be affecting.  Grassroots lobbying is the most powerful tool that the GFIA legislative team has when advocating on behalf of our industry.  

How can you help the GFIA grassroots campaign?

• Attend the GFIA Legislative Reception
• Donate to the GFIA PAC Fund
• Contact GFIA to set up a Store Tour or Plant Tour with your locally elected officials
• Sign up for a Capitol Day
• Write your legislator a Thank You Note for their Service
• Attend Fundraisers
• Invite your legislator to a GFIA Event- Holiday Party is a great one!
• Invite your legislator to Store / Plant / New Business Grand Openings
• Contribute personally to Campaigns
• Personally host a fundraiser

Here's what some of our elected leaders have to say about the importance of knowing their constituents.

Senator Renee Unterman (R- Buford)
Developing a relationship with your legislator is extremely important especially during the “off session” time period. I encourage you to meet your legislators and get to know them well, because when you do, they are more apt to recognize you and your needs making Grassroots mobilization much more effective.  

Representative Tom McCall (R- Elberton)
Over the past few years, I have had the pleasure of attending the GFIA convention. During that time, I have had the opportunity to get to know and become friends with many GFIA members. If those members call me with a problem on a piece of legislation, I make sure that my vote is one that does not impede on their business!

Senator Butch Miller (R- Gainesville)
Every vote I cast in the Senate is based on the feedback I receive not only from my constituents, but Georgians across the state. There is nothing more important to me than hearing from those who may be potentially impacted by pending legislation.

Representative Stacey Abrams (D- Atlanta)
As a member of the General Assembly, I rely on not only the intent of the proposed law but also the impact it will have on our communities. Grassroots lobbying is vital to our government because citizen voices enhance the quality of our debate. Hearing from those on the ground breathes life into legislation by lifting up the potential impact on families and neighborhoods.  While multiple points of views are critical during the legislative process, hearing directly from those affected is crucial to my final decision.

Representative Howard Maxwell (R- Dallas)
When people I know call me, I pay attention.