You often hear from your state association about the importance of being engaged, especially when it comes to matters of advocacy. Throughout our association’s history we’ve been meeting with legislators downtown, at committee hearings, and sometimes even on Capitol Hill, making our voice heard. While our HBAM team in Lansing works daily on behalf of the industry, strong support from our membership allows our message to make a significant impact. To give HBA members the opportunity to learn about the legislative process and connect face-to-face with their legislators, the HBAM Young Professionals Committee hosted its second annual Capitol Day event at the Michigan Capitol in Lansing. 

The day began with a tour of the Michigan Capitol where attendees learned about its rich history and some of the significant milestones our state government has seen over the years. Tour attendees learned about the process in which lawmakers make policy decisions on behalf of their constituents and toured the rooms where these decisions are made. 

After the tour, Bob Filka and Dawn Crandall each provided updates on HBAM’s ongoing legislative and legal efforts to brief attendees before legislators arrived for the regional advocacy roundtables. Sixteen legislators and several staff members representing districts across Michigan participated throughout the day, meeting in small groups to discuss local issues and solutions. 

While the Senate was in session, attendees had the opportunity to observe lawmakers in action from the Senate gallery and continue conversations with senators to close out their time at the Capitol. The day concluded with a networking happy hour where members reflected on the day’s discussions about the future of housing policy in Michigan.

Events like Capitol Day serve as an important reminder that advocacy is most effective when policymakers hear directly from the individuals and businesses impacted by their decisions. Thank you to everyone who joined us from every corner of the state to help amplify our impact. If you missed out on the event this year, make plans to join us on May 5, 2027.