Highlights from the Return of In-Person Advocacy at Capitol Hill Day

Capitol Hill Day has long been a hallmark FSI event. It brings our members to Washington, D.C., and allows them to participate in the democratic process and act as citizen advocates. After COVID forced us to hold virtual – albeit productive – events since 2019, we looked forward to visiting the Hill in person once again this year. 

FSI members meet with lawmakers in an intimate setting and discuss issues that directly impact their business, as well as the broader independent financial services industry. In all, we held over 90 meetings during our day at the Capitol. 

Not only were we able to visit with many of our members’ own elected officials, but we were also able to win an audience with a host of influential legislators or their staff, including Rep. Nancy Pelosi, Sen. Tim Kaine, Sen. Ben Cardin and the late Sen. Diane Feinstein.    With so many critical issues to discuss, our meetings were well-timed and productive. Naturally, we sought to educate lawmakers about the importance of our members’ independent contractor status and what it means to their clients. But we also focused on a range of other matters, including everything from the Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule proposal to protecting vulnerable investors. 

Enthusiastic Participation from Our Members

Capitol Hill Day has long been a hallmark FSI event. It brings our members to Washington, D.C., and allows them to participate in the democratic process and act as citizen advocates. After COVID forced us to hold virtual – albeit productive – events since 2019, we looked forward to visiting the Hill in person once again this year. 

FSI members meet with lawmakers in an intimate setting and discuss issues that directly impact their business, as well as the broader independent financial services industry. In all, we held over 90 meetings during our day at the Capitol. 

Not only were we able to visit with many of our members’ own elected officials, but we were also able to win an audience with a host of influential legislators or their staff, including Rep. Nancy Pelosi, Sen. Tim Kaine, Sen. Ben Cardin and the late Sen. Diane Feinstein.    With so many critical issues to discuss, our meetings were well-timed and productive. Naturally, we sought to educate lawmakers about the importance of our members’ independent contractor status and what it means to their clients. But we also focused on a range of other matters, including everything from the Department of Labor’s fiduciary rule proposal to protecting vulnerable investors. 

Consider Joining Us Next Year

Despite what you may hear on the news or see on social media, elected officials want to meet with their constituents. It allows them to learn how somewhat arcane issues can have an outsized impact on a large group of people. To that end, we encourage you to consider being part of next year’s Capitol Hill Day. 

“Please join us,” Pedlow implored. “There is plenty of room for all who want to participate, and the more that do, the better we are heard.” 

You don’t need to be a policy expert, and no lobbying experience is required. As a financial advisor and small business owner, you are more than qualified to discuss the real-world implications of laws and regulations on your business and the profession.

We thank everyone who attended this year’s event and look forward to seeing even more of the FSI community next year.