Have questions? Read on to learn more! 
 

Who are NFDA’s advocates? 

You are! If you’re a funeral service professional, you’re an advocate for funeral service and your voice needs to be heard. It’s as simple as that. 

Why should I attend? Doesn’t NFDA already have a full-time lobbyist in D.C.?

Yes, NFDA is the only funeral service association that has a full-time lobbyist advocating on behalf of the profession in D.C. However, we need the collective voice of the profession to ensure our success. It is imperative that we reinforce the critical role funeral service plays in our society and that the sustainability of our profession relies on legislation that supports our businesses and the families we serve. When you participate in the 2025 NFDA Advocacy Summit, and tell your story, you’ll be doing exactly that. 

Do I have to be a state leader or from a large funeral home to participate?

The success of the NFDA Advocacy Summit relies on everyone’s voice being heard. We not only want, but need, funeral professionals from all walks of life to participate. Whether you’re from a large firm in a big city or are a third-generation funeral director from a small, family-owned firm, it is critical that your voice is heard. 

How will NFDA prepare me to meet my member of Congress?

NFDA provides everything you need to feel confident and educated while meeting with your member of Congress. We’ll provide training about what to expect, talking points and a leave-behind folder about the legislation we are advocating for and the role of funeral service in their states or district.

What Does the State Executive/Representative Do?

The state representative coordinates attendees from your state by:

• Receive a list of state attendees and connect via email so everyone knows who is attending.
• Arrange a meeting spot before Hill visits to foster collaboration.
• Serve as a resource for new attendees with questions.
• Ensure the group visits the Hill together and sends one, unified thank-you letter.

This role helps your state’s attendees stay organized and make a stronger impact.

I’ve never met with a member of Congress before. What can I expect?

While it may sound intimidating to meet with a national leader, we’re confident you’ll find the experience to be much more relaxed than you expect. When congressional leaders are elected, they make a commitment to learn from their constituents. Meeting with members of the public plays an important role in helping them determine which legislation to support. 

You’ll meet with either the member of Congress directly or a member of their staff. During your meeting you’ll present the talking points we’ve provided, tell them why the legislation is important to you and your firm, and answer any questions they may have. Your meeting will last approximately 10 minutes. 

There will likely also be an opportunity for a photo – perfect for sharing on social media! 

What legislation will we be speaking about?

As we prepare to reintroduce legislation in the new Congress, our focus remains on key priorities that impact funeral service and the families we serve. This includes legislation, regulations (such as the formaldehyde review), and partnerships addressing veterans' benefits, small business concerns, and other challenges facing funeral directors and grieving families. We will provide details on the specific issues we’ll advocate for shortly before the Summit.

Current Issues

• Veterans Funeral and Burial Benefits
• Small Business Issues
• Taxes
• Workforce Issues
• Workplace Health and Safety
• Environmental Issues
• Mass-fatality and Disaster Planning and Management
• Transportation and Shipping
• The Funeral Rule

Please join us! After all, this is what democracy is all about.