industry advocate on multiple fronts, spanning both state and national levels. By organizing Lobby Days, where members meet with policymakers on Capitol Hill to discuss industry issues. “We work with a federal lobbyist firm that helps us set up appointments… we come up with position papers and train people on what they should expect,” Hickman explains. So far, the organization has been very successful in addressing regulatory challenges, such as natural gas usage for pool heating and drought-related concerns. The PHTA’s standards development efforts have also resulted in over 550 state and local code adoptions, ensuring safety and consistency across the industry. The most impressive development to come out of the alliance’s penchant for advocacy is undoubtedly the work it has done removing the stigma associated with pools. The “Let’s Pool Together” initiative, for example, successfully advocated against drought-related restrictions by educating stakeholders about the water-efficient nature of pools. Another standout initiative within the PHTA’s advocacy efforts is “Step Into Swim,” focused on drowning prevention. This initiative raises funds to provide swim lessons in underserved communities, addressing the high rates of childhood drowning among African American and Hispanic populations. With the support of industry icon and Olympian Rowdy Gaines, this program has grown significantly, raising substantial funds and teaching thousands of children to swim. “Rowdy joined us in January 2021… this year we’ll 50 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
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