PPAI Urges Action To Prevent Government Curb On Merchandise
The US trade association for promotional products, the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) is alerting members to a bill that cuts US government spending on promotional products.
The legislation proposes limits on promotional spending as part of a larger effort to reduce spending on public relations and advertising by federal agencies and departments. PPAI President and CEO Paul Bellantone, is urging the US promo industry to act now by emailing legislators in Washington, D.C. to ensure they are aware of the industry’s importance to the US economy. PPAI represents more than 533,000 industry professionals and more than 15,800 corporate members of the $24.7 billion-dollar promotional products industry. Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa has proposed bill S.2722, “to prohibit agencies from using federal funds for publicity or propaganda purposes, and for other purposes”. The legislation is co-sponsored by Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky and is assigned to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs to cut government spending.
Bellantone is meeting with Sen. Ernst’s staff in Washington D.C. to discuss the bill and make clear that not only are promotional products companies and practitioners an important part of their communities and economy, but that promotional products are proven to be one of the most effective forms of media available to advertisers, and the messages they carry help governments at every level keep their citizens informed and well prepared. “While it might be tempting to limit the purchase of promotional products in order to yield some short-term savings, in the long term this prohibition may unintentionally diminish the good work of federal agencies,” said Bellantone. “Time and again, promotional products have proven themselves to be the most cost-effective way to reach a targeted audience with the highest rate of recall, reaction and return on investment.” PPAI has an active lobbying presence in Washington, D.C. to monitor these types of legislative initiatives. The S. 2722 bill will be added to PPAI’s Legislative Agenda as part of its annual Legislative Education and Action Day (L.E.A.D.) event where around 80 PPAI leaders and industry members meet directly with their members of Congress. L.E.A.D. will take place in Washington, D.C. on 6-7 May, 2020.
“PPAI is in favour of balanced budgets and the responsible use of taxpayer dollars, but it would be counterproductive for Congress to pass a bill that would eliminate any opportunity for the government to use promotional products in a powerful and effective manner,” said Bellantone. “It will take a concerted effort by the entire industry – including practitioners, companies and representative national and regional trade organisations – to work together to advocate
for our businesses, products, and profession.” PPAI’s goal is to ensure that promotional products are viewed in a positive light. The
Association is pointing out the diverse use of promotional products to educate, recruit, highlight safety awareness, urge organ donations and encourage healthy living and lifestyle choices. Promotional products recognise and reward employee achievements and inspire action. They are also used to celebrate milestones, sign legislation and reinforce critical messages.
