N.Y. Representative Laura Gillen (center) with (L to R) Jeff Rose of Attitude New York, NLA President Brett Barenholtz of Above All/Maine Limousine, NLA Director Doug Schwartz of Executive Transportation, and Rosina Rubin of Attitude New York
More than 70 members representing dozens of states convened in Washington, D.C., to speak with officials on Capitol Hill as part of the National Limousine Association’s (NLA) Day on the Hill this past April 14-15. This annual two-day event, which was also attended by CD President Chris Weiss, is the association’s flagship advocacy effort that includes members.
Day one was spent building a foundation for attendees, including examining core issues impacting the industry. Working in conjunction with its longtime lobbying firm, Cornerstone Government Affairs, the NLA identified several legislative priorities that are affecting operators nationwide to discuss during their Congressional meetings. Of course, skyrocketing insurance rates continue to be a major pain point.
L to R: James Blain of PAX Training, NLA Vendor Director Barry Trabb of Complete Fleet Sales, CD President Chris Weiss, Mike Rose of My Limousine Service, NLA Director Joe Gulino of Gem Worldwide, and NLA Director Tim Rose of Hoffmann Transportation
Among the event’s top priorities:
Insurance, Insurance, Insurance: The NLA highlighted the crisis in affordable insurance driven by fraud, staged accidents, litigation costs, and regulatory inefficiencies, which threaten small operators’ viability despite strong safety records. The association supports the Staged Accident Fraud Prevention Act to criminalize staged crashes (especially commercial vehicles where companies have larger policies).
L to R: Moses Koktsidis of Second Nature Limousine, Weiss, and NLA Director Jason Sharenow of Broadway Elite Worldwide
Passenger Safety and Industry Integrity:Concerns over sexual assaults involving TNC drivers have prompted calls for federal oversight, transparency, and safety standards. The NLA advocates for a federal framework to improve passenger safety, building on Sami’s Law to establish enforceable safety standards and accountability measures for for-hire and app-based transportation providers.
Tax Policy and Business Support: The NLA emphasized the importance of tax policies, including the No Tax on Tips policy, to aid workforce retention and recruitment, and urged the expedited issuance of clearer guidance from the IRS. Additionally, the NLA called for enhancements to Section 179 deductions, allowing small businesses to fully deduct vehicle purchases to encourage investment in safer, modern vehicles essential for industry competitiveness.
Representative Richie Torres addressed attendees
Cornerstone staff also provided updates on the upcoming 2026 midterm elections—where all House representatives and 35 Senators are up for reelection or replacement—as well as the latest progress on the Tax and Surface Transportation Reauthorization Act and other political rumbles on the Hill. They also offered tips on how to lobby Congress, as the meetings were scheduled for the following day. NLA members also heard directly from Reps. Richie Torres (N.Y.-15) and Laura Gillen (N.Y.-4), who both expressed their support for the industry and listened as members voiced their concerns.
L to R: Gary Bhuller of Indy Executive Limo, Guri Rajput of SRTC, Weiss, and Harry Dhillon of Echo Worldwide/Hashtag Biz Solutions
“We had the opportunity to educate lawmakers and staff on the unique role our industry plays in local economies, public safety, tourism, and business travel,” wrote NLA President Brett Barenholtz of Above All/Maine Transportation in his weekly President’s Letter. “The initial response from these meetings was very encouraging. We heard thoughtful questions, saw genuine interest, and received positive feedback on our professionalism and preparedness. Many offices expressed a willingness to continue the conversation and explore ways to support issues important to our members.”
Barenholtz, who was recently reelected as president, also thanked the event’s sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor Hashtag Biz Solutions, for their commitment to the betterment of the industry.
Visit limo.org for more information.
[04.21.26]
