“These are extraordinary times in Washington, D.C., as well as for our entire nation,” said PHCC President Patrick Wallner. “Lawmakers are faced with difficult challenges on a number of national issues impacting all of us.”

During the opening session, Sofie Miller, political analyst at George Washington University’s Regulatory Studies Center, shared statistics on how a spike in energy efficiency standards over the past several years has resulted in increases costs and little return on investment for consumers and businesses. Miller suggested to attendees that it may be time to reform EPCA.

Several members of Congress also attended a congressional reception at the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill and spoke on the need for workforce education, additional funding for the Carl D. Perkins Act and the importance of tax reform.

During the event’s breakfast, PHCC members observed a moment of silence for the victims of the shooting at the congressional baseball team practice, which occurred the same day as the conference and resulted in certain meetings and events being canceled or rescheduled.

“We are so proud of how PHCC members kept focused on their advocacy roles at the conference while also showing compassion as Americans,” Wallner said. “They truly displayed professionalism despite difficult circumstances. We look forward to continuing to work with the 115th Congress, and I am pleased that our efforts are making an impact in Washington, D.C.”