12/20/2023

Message from Beth -- December 20, 2023

The end of the year is quickly approaching and ACEC Ohio's PAC year ends on December 31, 2023. There's still time left to meet your company's PAC goal! The ACEC Ohio PAC has met 60 percent of our $55,000 goal and we have not met our National PAC goal. Thank you to the 53-member companies who have met their 2023 PAC goal! In appreciation of companies who have met their goal, those employees contributing received an invitation to the PAC Appreciation lunch on January 12, 2024 and will hear key insights on the 2024 legislative year at both the State and National level.

The PAC is a key component of our advocacy efforts for the business of engineering and needs to continue to be dynamic in our efforts.  ACEC Ohio continues to build strong relationships with Ohio House and Ohio Senate leadership, as well as with key legislative members that are supportive of our business interests.  By developing these relationships, ACEC Ohio has:

• Held off an effort to add sales tax on professional services.
• Held off PVC pipe preference bills.
• Passed a bill to increase the gas tax, first time since 2005.
• Passed a lien bill for design professionals.
• Supported a new water grant program (part of Ohio BUILDS) which has allocated $500 million to water/wastewater projects in the state.
• Passed a bill prohibiting broad form indemnification clauses in public contracts.

On a national level, ACEC's key Congressional relationships developed through the ACEC PAC proved very advantageous during negotiations on the Comprehensive Tax Reform bill, IIJA and now progress on the reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration and repeal of R&D amortization requirement.

There are many political issues which come at the industry, and we need PAC funds to effectively participate in the process and protect our industry.  Campaign season never ends, nor does the need for campaign donations.  Candidates and campaign committees are always gearing up for the next election and we need to be ready. If you need more information on your PAC goal, feel free to contact me.

Warmest wishes for a safe and joyous holiday season!

~Beth