Jeff Richter, President

Over the past couple of years this association has grown in so many ways. We now have an active Political Action Committee that has the financial backing to endorse industry friendly candidates. We have a renewed presence and voice at State board meetings with representation and voting privileges on every committee. We are working closely with City and County governments to establish policy improvements in areas that impact our industry. Our voting directors played a major role at the State board meeting this past winter in making a change in the chairs with the Senior Officers. We have a board member whose business has been recognized at the national level and spends countless hours traveling the state as a certified trainer in our industry. Our members are working with members of other BIAW associations to lobby for unity within our state. Oftentimes I hear the comment that we are one of the most organized and influential associations in the State. This is wonderful praise that comes with a tremendous amount of responsibility.

 

These are all excellent reasons to be a member of this association and we should all be proud of the work that has been accomplished. However, we must understand that our industry is under attack and we have much more work ahead of us. State, County and City government imposed regulations and fees are making it increasingly difficult to promote affordable housing for our industry. Every legislative session is an opportunity for those that do not share our same values to pose unfriendly legislation. Every year it takes a concerted effort on behalf of the BIAW staff and its active members to fight against this legislation. Whether it is a new twist in the Warranty Bill, introductions of short plat vesting or fire sprinkler mandates we are constantly in the line of fire from elected officials that do not share our same values. It takes an impassioned and unified effort to defeat those that attempt to destroy our businesses and our right to make an honest living. Today it is harder than ever for the small business owner to survive and the attacks continue. If you don't believe this then you must ask yourself why it is against state statute to choose your own workman compensation insurer. Even worse, why the state mandated insurer is implementing an 8% increase in L&I premiums, this in addition to the 40% increases already implemented over the past five years! 

 

We have proven that the will of the majority can prevail. We are experiencing a grass roots revival within the BIAW that will allow us to make a positive impact on our businesses. I welcome the opportunity to talk with any and all members about these efforts and encourage each of you to consider how you can get involved. If we sit back and do nothing we have no voice. Now is the time to stand up for our industry and get involved. Our livelihoods depend on it.