NACS Day on the Hill: Retailers Advocate for Critical Issues Affecting the Convenience Industry
Introducing lawmakers to the challenges Main Street businesses face every day helps drive change for the industry.
May 06, 2026 | 2 min read
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By Esmeralda Orozco, NACS grassroots manager
Earlier this spring, more than 160 retailers, state association executives and supplier members attended the annual advocacy event NACS Day on the Hill. Participants met with more than 200 lawmakers across 41 states to share their stories and advocate for the convenience and fuel retailing community.
Key issues discussed included the rising cost of credit card swipe fees and the need for enforcement around illicit nicotine products. Participants also raised concerns about the penny shortage, the potential impact of a ban on hemp products and legislation allowing for the year-round sale of E15.
These conversations matter. While there are various policy issues that impact our businesses, introducing lawmakers to some of the challenges Main Street businesses face every day builds on meaningful change for the entire industry. The push for swipe fee reform is a great example of the impact of engaging with members of Congress. That momentum carried into NACS Day on the Hill, where advocates reminded legislators of President Trump's January endorsement of the bill and the reintroduction of the Credit Card Competition Act in both the House and Senate.
Participants also addressed the increase of illicit nicotine products and the lack of clear direction from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Several members of Congress acknowledged these concerns and agreed there's a need for action to address the rapidly growing market of illicit products, while providing protection to communities nationwide.
To read more about NACS Day on the Hill 2026, check out the May 2026 issue of NACS magazine.
Your engagement in events like NACS Day on the Hill makes a difference. Consider joining NACS March 16-17, 2027, and participating in other NACS grassroots initiatives to support the industry. If you're interested in learning more, reach out to NACS Grassroots Manager Esmeralda Orozco at [email protected] or submit your information here.
