A member of the Indoor Tanning Association’s Board of Directors recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to strengthen the tanning industry’s political connections. The ITA hopes his actions serve as an example to salon owners across the country.
Greg Henson, President of Heartland Tanning, Inc., joined John Overstreet, ITA Executive Director, on his recent visit. On their first day in D.C., the two attended a Congressman’s fundraiser, which proved to be a valuable experience. On his second day, Henson met with representatives from his home state of Missouri to discuss how excessive regulations negatively affect tanning salon owners and the economy. Of his visit to the nation’s capital, Henson says he hopes he made a positive impression upon his state reps, and he personally considers his efforts successful.
Henson’s trip to the Beltway to talk to his representatives is part of what all ITA Board members do on behalf of the organization and our industry. Whether done as a group – the ITA hosts an Industry Summit that organizes large numbers of industry professionals in Washington, D.C. – or on their own, all Board members are encouraged to lead by example when it comes to being politically active. Says Henson, “It’s very important to stay engaged in the political process, especially for members of this industry. Considering how much legislation and regulation gets thrown at us at the state and Federal levels, we’d like to see more industry professionals reach out to their elected officials.”
On his first day in D.C., Henson attended a fundraiser for Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO), chairman of the House Small Business Committee. He took advantage of this opportunity to reintroduce himself to Rep. Graves – a longtime industry supporter – and discuss the negative effects of excessive governmental regulation. Henson and Overstreet also spoke with ten other representatives from various states, two of which were members of the Energy and Commerce Committee that oversees the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “This provided a great opportunity to represent our industry,” Henson added.
An office meeting with an elected official was the highlight of Henson’s second day in D.C. He and Overstreet spoke with Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO), senior Republican on the subcommittee responsible for FDA appropriations. During their discussion, Henson informed the Senator about the approximately 70 Missouri tanning salons that have closed doors between 2010 and 2014. This, he explained, represents a loss of approximately 420 jobs. “They’re listening to us,” Henson commented, “but the possibility of repealing the Tan Tax is remote right now because of all the other legislation that is bundled with it.”
Henson’s trip to Washington, D.C. could serve as inspiration for salon owners to become politically involved, says John Overstreet. After all, he firmly believes that owning a successful salon requires more than just knowledge of lotions, sunlamps and tanning equipment these days. As he stated, “Our industry continues to be attacked at both the state and federal levels, so the voices of salon owners who are also voters in these politicians’ districts will be what make the difference. This is why it’s important for everyone who earns their living in this industry to stand up and make themselves known to their lawmakers.”
Joining the ITA is the all-too-crucial first step that every salon owner needs to take. After all, the organization is the only one protecting everyone’s right to tan, Overstreet explained, so its Board and the organization are deserving of everyone’s support. He also said, “Every Board member deserves to be commended for their selfless dedication to the industry. Serving requires a significant commitment of time, effort and resources, as members are responsible for the management and operation of the ITA and for fulfilling committee assignments.”
Whether ITA members or not, Overstreet recommends salon owners reach out to their state lawmakers and get to know them on a first-name basis. These relationships will be very helpful both now and in the future, he explained before adding, “In most cases, these politicians don’t know anything about our industry. Getting to know them is the best way to make them more aware that salon owners are decent, hardworking people who pay their taxes and create jobs in their states.” Salon owners interested in scheduling a meeting with representatives in their home state or in Washington D.C. are urged to contact the ITA; the organization is willing to help with talking points and providing direction regarding whom to contact.
The ITA is the only organization looking out for salon owners’ continued interests. As the group continues to stay on top of all the issues that affect indoor tanning, its members encourage salon owners to get involved. To join, contact the ITA today at 703.336.3632, email admin@theita.com or visit theita.com. ■
From the Executive Director
This year, we have continued to reach out to Capitol Hill aggressively regarding the terrible effect the Tan Tax has had on our industry. The elected officials and their staffs with whom we meet are often amazed to learn how badly the recession and tax have hurt our industry in the past four-plus years.
Many people are unaware that since 2009, more than 5,800 businesses representing 28% of the industry have closed, resulting in thousands of lost jobs in the private sector. As we all know well, the Tan Tax has only compounded the problem. The most recent figures show approximately 18% of professional indoor tanning businesses have closed nationwide since the tax went into effect in 2010.
Some states have been hit much harder than others. For example, in Nevada we estimate 41% of the businesses have closed with Rhode Island not far behind with a 34% closure rate. Other trouble spots include New Mexico (28%), Delaware (27%), and Florida (26%). Check the table for a breakdown of closures and jobs lost in each of the 50 states.
I am always an optimist, but there is little hope the Congress can muster the wherewithal to either make changes to Obamacare or reform the tax code this year. Nevertheless, it is my responsibility and determination to continue spreading the word and keep this issue top-of-mind for members of both parties on Capitol Hill.
In addition to the national analysis, we have prepared a fact sheet for each state that addresses the closure rate, as well as how little revenue the tax actually brings into the Treasury. Very few policymakers are aware that collections from the tax only amount to 1/3 of the original projections – $21.7 million/quarter average in the first seven quarters where the original estimates was $67.5 million/quarter.
With the mid-term elections only a few months off, help us spread the word about the job losses this tax is causing. If you want a fact sheet for your state, email admin@theita.com. Then, set up a meeting with your Congressman or Senator and ask for help in repealing this loathsome tax!
Thanks,
John Overstreet
