By Tommy Diaz, 365 Pool Service / info@365pools.com
This material has been reproduced with the express permission of the Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA).
Joining the Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA) marks the beginning of a journey where engagement extends beyond mere attendance at chapter meetings and events. Delving deeper reveals the true essence of FSPA’s impact—the Political Industry Political Action Committee (PIPAC), the hidden gem driving transformative change within the pool industry realm.
Consider 2017 when a proposed electrical rule threatened to upend the very foundation of pool contractor operations. Picture a world where installing pool lights or pumps becomes a bureaucratic nightmare, necessitating the involvement of electricians for routine installs. The FSPA, powered by contributions from its members to PIPAC, undertook a Herculean effort spanning over a year and a half, investing tens of thousands of dollars to safeguard the pool industry’s practices. Without this intervention, the repercussions would have reverberated across member businesses, reshaping business models and inflating operational costs.
The list of victories achieved through PIPAC’s advocacy is testament to its indispensable role in shaping the regulatory landscape in the state of Florida:
- The reversal of the Level 1 test kit requirement (2023/2024), translating to significant cost savings for commercial pool customers and rationalizing regulatory standards.
- The Swimming Pool Subcontractor Exemption (2022), streamlining industry operations and bolstering contractor autonomy.
- Introduction of the Florida Swims Specialty License Plate (2022), enhancing visibility and promoting community engagement to help fund free swim lessons for children.
- Pre-emption of Local LP Gas Regulations (2021), fostering uniformity and eliminating regulatory burdens.
- Securing a protected swimming pool contractor seat on the Florida Building Commission (2019 and 2020), ensuring industry representation in crucial decision-making arenas.
The most recent triumph as noted above—the reversal of the Level 1 test kit requirement—underscores PIPAC’s ongoing commitment to advocating for sensible regulations. Beyond saving commercial pool customers substantial sums, this victory exemplifies PIPAC’s dedication to crafting regulations that align with industry needs and customer expectations. Yet, the fight is far from over, with ongoing efforts to reform 64E-9 regulations, ensuring a regulatory framework that serves both industry stakeholders and customers alike.
For FSPA members, supporting PIPAC through contributions isn’t merely an option; it’s a strategic imperative. Failure to bolster PIPAC’s resources jeopardizes the association’s ability to safeguard member interests and uphold industry standards. In a landscape rife with regulatory challenges, PIPAC stands as a beacon of advocacy, tirelessly championing the industry’s cause while fostering an environment ripe for growth and innovation.
In essence, PIPAC isn’t just a committee—it’s the cornerstone of FSPA’s advocacy efforts, driving tangible outcomes that shape the trajectory of member businesses and the industry at large. As stewards of the pool contracting profession, supporting PIPAC isn’t just an obligation; it’s an investment in the continued prosperity and sustainability of your business. Support PIPAC today at www.PoolPAC.com.
