RILA Launches Ambitious Policy & Operations Agenda for 2019

Today, the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), welcomed the 116th Congress by launching an ambitious retail-focused policy agenda for 2019. As the trade association for America's most recognized and innovative retailers, RILA will work with members of Congress and the Administration to advance the industry and consumers throughout the year ahead. 

"American retailers are vital to our nation's economy," said Sandy Kennedy, president of RILA. "Whether it's providing a first job or lifelong career, answering the call in the wake of 

disaster, or giving back to the local community, retailers are the nation's leading job creators and the economic backbone of communities across our nation. We are excited to welcome the new Congress and look forward to continuing our work as we elevate retail's voice in Washington and across the country." 

RILA's 2019 Public Policy Agenda identifies the key issue areas that are vital to help retailers move America forward.  Below are the top priorities for RILA and its members: 

• Promoting Competition and Innovation 
• Growing the 21st Century Retail Workforce 
• Enhancing the Customer Experience 
• Securing Efficient Supply Chains 
• Giving Back to Communities 

"As the trade association for America's most recognized and innovative brands, we are proud to be the voice for leading retailers in Washington," said Brian Dodge, chief operating officer for RILA. "Our aim is to advance the industry, our employees and our customers through education and public-policy advocacy. Through collaboration and thought leadership, we advance ideas that foster free markets, competition, economic growth and sustainability." 

Throughout the year ahead, RILA will advocate for trade policies that promote efficient and reliable supply chains; privacy and data protection laws that protect consumers; payment reforms that enhance competition and transparency; and workplace policies at the state and federal level that promote both flexibility and the preferences of retail employees. 

RILA is the trade association of the world's largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad. 

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