ERA Government Fly In

2009 Government Affairs Fly-In April 20-21

What's the Fly-in All about? Read about the 2008 Fly-In below.

I don’t have to tell you that our industry is often at the crossroads between enhancing the consumer experience and addressing cyclical federal regulations. Throughout the year, ERA’s government affairs program aggressively works to bridge the gap between the expectations of Capitol Hill and the interests of electronic retailers. Every year we encourage ERA members to participate in this process at our GA Fly-In.

Last year, approximately 100 members of the electronic retailing community came together to learn how the industry might face significant changes in business practices from three key issues: Net Neutrality (the principle of a free and open Internet), Behavioral Advertising (advance online advertising using tracking mechanisms) and the Streamlined Sales Tax (dramatic new tax legislation giving the country’s 7500 tax jurisdictions the right to collect sales tax from online retailers). The issues briefing and discussion was led by Amanda Pedigo of eBay, Brent Thompson with IAC and Emmett O’Keefe of Amazon.com.

Now  well versed in the issues and ERA’s position on each, the large group broke into smaller teams of approximately six each, led by a Team Captain, a knowledge expert chosen to guide the team through face-to-face meetings with federal representatives just a few blocks away on Capitol Hill. Just prior to the individual team meetings, Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL) addressed the entire group and gave an eye-opening insider’s view of the political and regulatory processes.

The team meetings with representatives are likely to make the most impact for all of us. The industry’s positions and concerns were made loud and clear and the ERA brand and influence were reinforced through the halls of the House and Senate. With any movement on these three key issues, or any other relevant legislation, ERA remains steadfast in its role as the industry’s only voice on Capitol Hill. This week, it was evident that we made a difference with 100 voices. But there is strength in numbers. We hope to include even more members of the industry during next year’s Fly-In and we encourage you to keep the communications open…tell us of the issues that keep you up at night.

Thank You!
To all the folks who joined us for our Fly in this year. We are already planning for next year's Fly-In April 20-21, 2009, so if you are interested in taking part next year, please email Bill McClellan. Here are some photos from our trip to the Hill.