Associations assist when changes are proposed

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It’s no secret pest control is a highly regulated industry. Pest management professionals (PMPs) may find it challenging to keep up with changes that affect their control methods, however.

Fortunately, pest management associations at the local, state and national levels help inform PMPs of important regulatory and legislative change. Associations let their members know of developments that may affect their livelihoods and offer ways to take action.

“Individuals as constituents are their own best advocates when it comes to influencing change at a local, state and federal level,” says the National Pest Management Association’s (NPMA’s) CEO, Dominique Stumpf, CAE. “The NPMA strongly encourages pest management professionals to get involved in their state and national associations to defend and proactively advocate for the important work we do in protecting people, property and food from pests and the disease and damage they cause.”

An ‘insurance policy’ for PMPs

California is one of the country’s most heavily regulated states when it comes to pest control. The Pest Control Operators of California (PCOC) takes action against proposed regulations that may jeopardize public safety. But you don’t have to live in California to feel the impact of the bills its lawmakers pass.

“Whether you realize it or not, state professional pest management associations serve as an insurance policy for business operators and related businesses by defending companies from known and unforeseen regulatory and legislative issues,” says Michael E. Wilson, PCOC CEO. “Without question, the governmental schemes that get implemented in one state spread across its borders and are replicated in other jurisdictions all over the country.”

Associations also rely on its members to help oppose legislation that is on the way to becoming law. Testifying before committees and writing lawmakers helps get the message out that pest control is a much-needed service that keeps state residents and their structures safe.

Wilson urges PMPs to support their state associations through active membership. “I can guarantee you that regardless of whether industry professionals pay attention to the government, there will be activity and consequences,” he adds. “Industry indifference or inadequate action will be met with waves of unfavorable rules and restrictions that will affect every pest management business’ financial bottom line.”

Dominique Stumpf, CAE, CMP

PMPs can get involved by conducting an online search for their local and state associations, and signing up. Association members must pay dues; the cost typically depends on the size of the pest control company. Benefits range from training opportunities to insurance discounts to business resources. But working together on legislative issues gives members the most bang for their buck.

“Joining our state association was a no brainer for us,” says Andy Peterson, ACE, past president of the Michigan Pest Management Association and owner of North Shore Pest Control in South Haven, Mich. “As the saying goes. ‘There is strength in numbers.’ By joining our state association, we strengthen our membership, which in turn provides PMPs with organized and purposeful representation in regard to changes in legislation.”

Stumpf points out the NPMA’s public policy team monitors proposed legislation in states across the country, but it doesn’t stop there. Members are notified when the need arises to take action.

“If you are not already involved, please reach out to the NPMA’s public policy team at publicpolicy@pestworld.org for more information,” she says. “Get connected and engaged today to protect and promote our industry now and well into the future.”