MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
AN APPEAL DEAR NPA MEMBERS, State Association Leadership and Pawnbrokers Nationwide, Help us help you further the interests of pawn. It is that simple. Thirty-five years ago, a group of like-minded professionals passionate about pawn founded the National Pawnbrokers Association. The founders of our great organization were dedicated to advancing the interests of pawn while advocating a unified point of view. No single arm of the NPA demonstrates this effort more than our Government Relations Team. The GRC team and our Legislative Counsel on the ground in DC work tirelessly to build important and meaningful relationships. They continue to positively influence some of Washington DC’s most important decision makers and ensure our voices and concerns are heard when national issues regarding pawn are on the table. In addition, the GRC keeps an ear to the rail regarding pending State legislation. You should be proud of the successful work and support given by your GRC to our Illinois membership in their exemption fight in the latest rate cap legislation. Threats can come from any and everywhere. That is why there truly is strength in numbers. When we travel to some of our great country’s State and Regional Association’s trade shows and conventions we sometimes hear from prospective members “We already belong to our State Association. Don’t National and State do the same thing?” No, we don’t! We do some of the same things. And we share many of the same interests. But at the National level, we represent ALL pawnbrokers. North to South. Coast to Coast. Even in the great States of Alaska and Hawaii. And I’m proud to say no one else has a team of people as committed to protecting your front doors as we do. Our interests are furthered farther when we get to say we represent all of you. But --our voices get louder when there are more of us. The politics of the day are ever changing. Both Federal and State fights are on the horizon. The positions we continue to advocate carry more weight with every additional member we represent. If you are not a current member, become one. If you know people hesitant to join, help convince them. If you are already a member, let us know if you would like to do even more to further the cause. Strength in numbers! It is time to do your part.
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With great appreciation, Kristen Williams
NATIONAL PAWNBROKERS ASSOCIATION | WINTER 2021
