Jewelers of America was in Washington, D.C. on September 17, bringing the industry’s message on two critical issues to lawmakers. Long-time fly-in attendee Brian Alter, Alter’s Gem Jewelry in Beaumont, Texas, makes the case for the fly-in and why we need more jewelers to support the Jewelers of America Political Action Committee (JAPAC).

What Are We Fighting For?

We have a broad industry, made up primarily of small family-owned retail stores and a broad mix of manufacturers. JAPAC has been working in Washington D.C. visiting with Senators, Congressman, and the Administration. Issues that impact us all. Some are less significant at the moment, like protection of LIFO, (the last-in, first- out accounting method used by many jewelry businesses). Others are far more pervasive, like tariffs and organized retail crime.

Brian Alter—JA member from Alter’s Gem Jewelry—pictured with Rep. Darrell Issa (R, CA-48)

Does Speaking Up Really Matter?

Participating absolutely does make a difference. This year over 20 elected officials heard from us. One signed on as a co-sponsor of the crime bill while we were in his office.

Our voices may not be as loud as some others. But we do get heard, which is far more beneficial than not talking at all. And if we can encourage more participation, our voices will get louder.

These two key primary issues impact detrimentally every corner of our industry. Merchandise cost, delivery delays, security costs, insurance costs, threats to our staff, ourselves and our clients are all at stake.

How Can I Help?

Federal law requires two things to help:

1. You need to join JA since the PAC is under their umbrella. We need your manufacturers and insurers and shippers and security firms as well.
2. You need to donate to our PAC, which by law must be a personal donation.

Our PAC operates with a very small budget of approximately $30,000/yr. Being good businesspeople and preeminent sales professionals, we make the best use out of every dollar.

From left to right: Brian Alter (Alter’s Gem Jewelry, Beaumont, TX); Lawrence and Katy Bock (Bachendorf’s, Dallas, TX); Rep. Stephanie Bice (R, OK-5); Coleman Clark (BC Clark, Oklahoma City, OK;) Susan Eisen (Susan Eisen Fine Jewelry Watches Art & Appraiser, El Paso, TX)

What Is JAPAC’s Fundraising Goal?

The tariffs battle and getting the Organized Retail Crime bill over the finish line takes a larger war chest. We need to raise $100,000.

We have about 4,000 doors in JA. Probably over 20,000 team members. Just $10/team member is $200,000.

Please join Jewelers of America and JAPAC and give what you can to our efforts in D.C.

Want to participate in person? We would love that. Let us know. This year’s first timers all loudly said they plan to come back in 2026. Meeting all these amazing individuals, spending a day on the Hill, is rewarding and truly just plain FUN.

Learn more about JAPAC or email Susan Posnock at sposnock@jewelers.org.