I’m looking forward to joining many of you in Washington, D.C. next week for our 2026 Advocacy Day. This event remains one of the most important ways we make sure the voice of building material dealers is heard where decisions are made. And this year, we’re heading into Washington with real momentum behind us. 

Over the past year, ABMA members have shown what happens when we show up, speak clearly, and stay engaged. We’ve helped shape major policy discussions, protected our ability to operate and invest, and ensured that the perspective of independent building material dealers is part of the national conversation. That work has put our industry in a stronger position heading into this year’s meetings. 

Next week, we’ll continue that work by focusing on three issues that directly affect our businesses, our customers, and the cost of building a home in this country: 

1. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act 

This bipartisan package is the most significant housing effort moving in Congress. It aligns closely with ABMA’s “Building Homes—Not Costs” plan by targeting regulatory delays, permitting challenges, and other barriers that slow construction. As the businesses that supply the materials for nearly every home built in America, we have a critical role in this discussion and a clear stake in seeing housing supply increase. 

2. The Credit Card Competition Act 

Swipe fees have become one of the fastest‑growing costs for our members, often ranking right behind labor and healthcare. These fees flow directly into the cost of building materials and ultimately into the price of a home. This bipartisan bill introduces real competition into a system that currently offers very little, giving small businesses the ability to compare and negotiate routing options and reduce cost pressure across the housing supply chain. 

3. The PROVE IT Act 

Small businesses deserve a regulatory system that considers real‑world impacts before rules are finalized. The PROVE IT Act increases transparency and accountability by requiring agencies to fully evaluate the costs of regulations and giving small businesses a meaningful way to challenge rules that miss the mark. 

Whether you’re joining us in Washington or supporting from home, your engagement matters. The strength of ABMA has always come from its members—from the stories you share, the challenges you highlight, and the solutions you help shape. 

I’m looking forward to a productive and impactful week ahead. 

-Rod Wiles, Chair, American Building Materials Alliance, Vice President Human Resources, Hammond Lumber Company