From Trade Tariffs to Tax Reform – HFA Advocates in D.C.

Key Takeaways from HFA’s Washington, D.C. Fly-In

Last week, leaders from the Home Furnishings Association (HFA) met in Washington, D.C., for a strategic fly-in event designed to elevate the voice of furniture retailers on Capitol Hill. In a series of high-impact meetings with lawmakers, policymakers, and trade officials, HFA members made a powerful case for reform on critical issues, including tariffs, tax policy, manufacturing challenges, and regulatory overreach.

This direct engagement gave elected officials and federal agencies a clearer view of how current policies affect home furnishings businesses’ real-world operations in the near term, from rising costs and labor shortages to slowed growth and investment pullbacks.

Here’s what was accomplished:

1. Elevating Retailer Concerns on Trade and Tariffs

HFA members met with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to discuss the ongoing impact of Section 301 tariffs and recent reciprocal tariff announcements. Members explained how these tariffs have shifted supply chains away from China toward countries like Vietnam, India, and Malaysia—but not without challenges. Major U.S. manufacturers, including La-Z-Boy and Ashley Furniture, still rely on Chinese components, making reshoring an expensive and complex process.

HFA advocated for:

• Targeted tariff exemptions to ease cost burdens.
• Tax incentives to support automation and competitiveness.
• Consideration of the broader economic impact during the upcoming USMCA review.

The USTR welcomed continued input from the home furnishings industry to help shape trade policy that promotes growth while addressing real-world manufacturing realities.

2. Aligning with the National Retail Federation on Supply Chain Strategy

In a separate meeting, HFA engaged with Jon Gold, VP of Supply Chain and Customs Policy at the National Retail Federation. Gold underscored how tariffs have disrupted U.S. supply chains, even for domestic manufacturers, and encouraged the industry to submit data-driven evidence, like layoffs or investment delays, to demonstrate the harmful effects of current trade policy.

3. Building Congressional Support for Permanent Tariff Relief and Regulatory Reform

HFA met with several key members of Congress to build momentum for long-term solutions:

Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) agreed that tariffs should be tools for negotiation, not permanent consumer taxes. He supported the industry’s push for exemptions, tax credits, and workforce development to enable onshoring efforts and pledged to advocate for more balanced trade and regulatory policies. 

Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) focused on the urgency of extending provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), noting their importance for long-term business planning. He also emphasized the need for new trade agreements and pragmatic immigration reform to address workforce shortages.

Congressman Pat Harrigan (R-NC) echoed the industry’s concerns over inflation, tax hikes, and the need for vocational training. He supported extending the TCJA and called for clear, fair definitions of “American-made” amid complex global supply chains.

4. Advocating For Predictable Tax Policy and Labor Market Solutions

In meetings with Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) and Annie Brody, Director of Business Coalitions in the Office of the Majority Whip, HFA discussed regulatory instability, tax challenges for small businesses, and obstacles to reshoring.

Senator Scott emphasized reducing regulatory spending and increasing labor participation, citing Florida’s success with Medicaid work requirements. Brody encouraged HFA to continue offering policy input and CEO engagement to shape pro-growth legislation.

A United Voice for the Industry

This DC Fly-In event showcased the strength and unity of the home furnishings industry. By presenting a clear, data-informed picture of the challenges facing retailers and manufacturers, HFA made meaningful strides in educating lawmakers and building support for the policies that matter most to our industry.

What’s Next?

HFA will continue following up on these conversations, sharing feedback, real-world case studies, and economic data to influence upcoming tariffs, tax reform, trade agreements, and labor policy decisions.

Thank you to the HFA members who participated in this critical advocacy event. Your voices are shaping the future of the home furnishings industry.

To stay informed on advocacy efforts and policy updates, visit myhfa.org/advocacy. If you are interested in participating in next year’s fly-in or sitting in on the HFA Government Relations Action Team, please contact kcrawford@nahfa.org.