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This week the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), alongside industry sponsors and co-hosts, kicked off the 2023 American Boating Congress (ABC), welcoming over 250 industry stakeholders to Washington, D.C. This year’s program featured insights from industry leaders, members of Congress, and a Congressional Boating Caucus briefing event with Boating Caucus co-chairs Representatives Nancy Mace and Darren Soto, where conversation focused on sustainability for the recreational marine industry and sustainable marine fuels.

On Tuesday attendees engaged in discussions with Representatives Garret Graves (R-LA-06), John Joyce (R-PA-13) and Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02), who spoke about the importance of technology solutions and real-time data monitoring for marine mammal protection, including for the North Atlantic right whale. Congressional speakers shared unique insights into their experiences on the water and how the industry, together, can protect access to our nation’s waters for future generations.

Keynote speaker, POLITICO journalist Jonathan Martin, provided an overview on the state of play in Washington, D.C. Members had the opportunity to ask Martin  questions about topics ranging from the polarization in Congress to the health of our democracy. 

Day two closed with the Congressional Boating Caucus briefing at the NMMA Product Showcase, which is back for its second year. Opening the briefing, Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC-01) shared what boating means to South Carolina and her fond memories of time spent on the water. Attendees and staffers had the opportunity to test products on The Wharf, including a boat cruise down the Potomac.

Industry stakeholders are encouraged to follow along on NMMA’s Twitter and LinkedIn channels as well as use the hashtag #BoatingMeansBusiness in their personal and company posts.