CAVC Legislative day 2013

(CHICAGO) May 23, 2013 – The California Automatic Vendors Council (CAVC) held its annual lobby day in Sacramento on May 15.  More than 25 CAVC members met with lawmakers to communicate their opposition to pending legislation including a bill restricting what can be sold in vending machines on government property and another that places a one cent per-ounce tax on sugar-sweetened beverages.

             “The vending industry is facing serious challenges in California,” CAVC President Larry Atnip said. “It was productive to meet with legislators and educate them on the impact the proposed bills would have on businesses throughout the state.”

             The CAVC and legislators also discussed tax inequality in California. Currently, vending operators pay sales taxes on items that are not taxed in grocery and convenience stores.

Pete Tullio, incoming NAMA chair, said operators around the United States are dealing with similar legislative issues. “NAMA and our members throughout the country need to stay involved in the legislative process at the state and local level to protect the industry,” Tullio said. Tullio was joined by his son, Paul Tullio, chair of NAMA’s committee of young leaders.

            “The legislative day enables CAVC members from throughout California to educate and interact with legislators,” said Sandy Larson, NAMA’s senior director and counsel of government affairs. “Many of the legislators we met with are in their first term and this event provided an ideal opportunity to tell our story and establish a working relationship we can build on.”

             Founded in 1936, NAMA is the national association representing the $42 billion U.S. vending and refreshment services industry.  With more than 1800 member companies – including many of the world’s most recognized brands – NAMA provides advocacy, education and research for its membership.