America’s Retailers Roll Out 2018 Policy Priorities Ahead of President’s State of the Union Address

The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), recently released its list of top policy priorities for 2018 ahead of President Trump's annual State of the Union Address. The possible withdrawal from NAFTA and other key trade agreements continue to be a concern.

2017 marked a year of success for the retail industry. RILA and its members worked with Congress and the Administration to advocate for the passage of comprehensive tax reform, the preservation of swipe fee reform and the reversal of overreaching regulatory policies.

“The retail industry is the backbone of our nation's economy, providing consumers with the goods and services they need, while also providing more than 42 million Americans with a job,” said Sandy Kennedy, president of RILA. “2017 proved to be a true success for America's retailers and we are excited to see what the new year brings. As we look towards the future, there is still much to be done. RILA will continue to work with Congress, the Administration and lawmakers nationwide to be the voice for retail in our nation's capital and across the country.”

RILA's 2018 Public Policy Agenda identifies the key issue areas that are vital to help retailers move America forward. Below are the top 4 priorities for RILA and its members:

• Ensure Robust Competition Throughout the Retail Industry
• Empower Consumers and Drive Innovation
• Promote Employee Flexibility and Mobility
• Secure and Grow the Retail Global Value Chain

In 2018 RILA will, among other things, focus on helping its members navigate tax reform implementation, pursue electronic payments reform, and seek to achieve sales tax parity for brick and mortar retailers through the courts.
As retailers continue to focus on innovation, RILA will lead the charge in promoting sound policy that allows retailers to effectively communicate to their customers and keep customer data safe.

As reported in SCMR, meeting consumer expectations and the needs of an evolving workforce are challenging with a complex system of laws, regulations, and inconsistent enforcement by government officials stifles growth and innovation.

But according to spokesmen, the Association will continue to work on behalf of members to support regulatory reform efforts that promote employee flexibility and enhanced consumer protection.

Finally, RILA hopes to continue showcase the benefits of investing in America's infrastructure and expanding trade to American families:

“The Association will continue to educate lawmakers about the impact a potential withdrawal from NAFTA or other free trade agreements or programs will have to U.S. jobs and retail prices.”

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