With more than 100 new members of Congress and recently-introduced legislation affecting the industry, chemical executives are rallying in the nation's capital to discuss their concerns with lawmakers during SOCMA's Annual Washington Fly-in, April 12-13, 2011.

"Given the influx of freshman lawmakers and last week's introduction of House and Senate legislation to extend the current chemical site security rules, now is the best time to meet with lawmakers and encourage their support on issues impacting the industry," said SOCMA president and CEO Lawrence D. Sloan.

The Washington Fly-in, the fourth of its kind, brings together chemical manufacturers from throughout the U.S. for a unique opportunity to influence public policy. In conjunction with this year's event, SOCMA is also hosting a "Virtual Fly-In" for members unable to make the trip to Washington. The Virtual Fly-in, which allows members to send electronic letters to their representatives, runs April 11-15 and rounds off a week of advocacy activities.

"My feeling is that if you see policies coming down the pike that will adversely affect your business and employees, you have an obligation to go to D.C. and meet with your legislators to educate them about the negative business impact and unintended consequences that will result from their actions," said J. Steel Hutchinson, president of GFS Chemicals and a return participant.

In addition to pending legislation, Fly-in participants will also discuss several other issues including the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), climate change, trade and the research and development tax credit during their meetings on the Hill.

The Washington Fly-in is part of SOCMA's new grassroots campaign, entitled "112 in the 112th by 2012", aiming to have 112 SOCMA members contact 112 Members of Congress by 2012 through advocacy methods such as meetings on Capitol Hill or at their facilities.

SOCMA's advocacy week activities are organized by the association's grassroots arm, SOCMA CONNECT, which supports and encourages members to shape the laws affecting batch chemical manufacturers.