IREM Conducts Inaugural Congressional Briefing

By Ted Thurn, IREM Director, Government Affairs

On July 11th, IREM conducted an inaugural Congressional Briefing in Washington, D.C. IREM decided to initiate this type of event as it is essential to communicate our issues and maintain relationships with federal legislators. The briefing was a great success as Mindy Gronbeck, CPM®, Chair of IREM’s Legislative and Public Policy Committee and Debbie Prejeant, CPM®, Vice Chair of IREM’s Federal Advocacy Board, presented to over sixty Congressional legislative staffers on issues significant to the property management industry.

Emotional Support Animals in Multifamily Housing – Ms. Prejeant communicated how IREM supports and invites guidance from the government on the issue of companion animals. She also informed the audience how companion animals are not service animals, which require special training. Companion animals receive no specialized training and are typically for individuals with mental disabilities or those in need of emotional support.
“Drive-By” ADA Lawsuits – Ms. Gronbeck informed the attendees how IREM supports the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and is committed to providing and encouraging equal opportunity to all people. However, Ms. Gronbeck stated how IREM is trying to prevent onerous “drive by” lawsuits motivated by financial compensation are delaying changes that could provide real access.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) – Ms. Prejeant communicated IREM’s support of NFIP, which is set to expire on July 31st. She advised the group how IREM wants to ensure the programs ongoing sustainability, encouragement of cost-effective private flood insurance options, and long-term reauthorization of NFIP so that it remains a viable option for property owners.

Before the briefing, Ms. Gronbeck and Ms. Prejeant also met with the legislative counsel for the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Committee on Financial Services. Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA), is the Ranking Member and Jeb Hensarling (R-TX) is the Chairman for the Committee, which has oversight on the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and NFIP.

Inaugural Congressional Briefing