Washington Retail and its national partner the National Retail Federation hosted a first of its kind virtual Congressional Town Hall on Tuesday. Normally, NRF would have hosted 200 plus retailers and state retail association leaders in Washington, D.C. in September ahead of the election for their Retail Advocates Summit.

However, due to COVID-19, NRF and WR brought D.C. home to Washington State.

Retailers from across the state attended the two-hour program. Headlining the event were five members of Congress. The bi-partisan representation was led by Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-3), followed by Congressman Denny Heck (D-10), Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-1), Congressman Derek Kilmer (D-6) and wrapped up with Congresswoman Kim Schrier (D-8).

NRF provided an in-depth briefing covering the CARES Act, PPP, and what retailers need in the next stimulus package. Provisions include business COVID-19 liability protections, a Safe and Healthy Workplace Tax Credit, Employee Retention Tax Credit, PPP loan forgiveness, and business tax relief to boost liquidity. An NRF expert also gave an overview of the data privacy efforts both at the federal and state level – one of WR’s top issues.

One of the highlights of the program was the recognition of two small retail owners as this year’s Washington Retail Champions. Congratulations Lowell Gordon, owner of the Creative Office and Lacey Mayor Andy Ryder, owner of Shur-Kleen Car Wash.

WR appreciates the support and partnership of the National Retail Federation which only helps to amplify and broaden the effectiveness of our advocacy efforts.