FALLS CHURCH, Va. — The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National Association (PHCC) concluded its 2025 Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., last month with advocacy efforts that a statement from the group says will benefit contractors across the country.
More than 100 PHCC members, chapter leaders, and industry stakeholders gathered in the nation’s capital for the two-day event to champion issues affecting the HVAC and plumbing industries. Attendees met with lawmakers to support federal workforce development programs, defend natural gas as a vital part of the U.S. energy mix, promote consumer choice, and advocate for pro-growth tax policies, a press release from the PHCC said.
The conference opened with an executive policy forum, a newcomers’ briefing for more than 20 first-time participants, and a legislative update from PHCC’s government relations department. There was also a special recognition by the PHCC of Virginia for longtime member Butch McGonegal. Attendees also heard from Tom Davis, a former U.S. congressman, who offered an outlook on the current political landscape.
Industry collaboration was on display during an evening Capitol Hill reception on May 20, as PHCC members networked with members of AHRI and Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI). PHCC contractors met face-to-face with lawmakers the following day to advocate for policies crucial to the industry.
The conference concluded with a reception that included a visit from Rep. Mark Messmer, R-Ind., a second-generation contractor, who shared insights into ongoing legislative efforts.
The U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R.1 — the Big Beautiful Bill — on the morning after the conference. The legislation includes several PHCC-supported tax measures, including:
- A permanent extension of the Section 199A pass-through income deduction
- Maintenance of higher estate tax exemption thresholds
- An extension of bonus depreciation with full expensing beyond 2026
“These legislative wins are a reminder of the power of grassroots advocacy and the strong presence PHCC can bring to Capitol Hill,” said Mark Valentini, vice president of legislative affairs at the PHCC. “Our unified voice is helping to shape policies that will reduce contractors’ tax burdens and empower them to reinvest in their businesses and workforce.”