In April 2023, the Washington legislature considered Senate Bill No. 5369 – Reassessing standards for polychlorinated biphenyls in consumer products. At one point, this bill would have basically banned certain commonly used inks in the State. The bill was ultimately amended after some last-ditch efforts primarily by lobbyists from several organizations including the Printing Industries Association (PIA) and American Forest & Paper Association. This legislation and the threat of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation which has been thwarted to date, created the need for the printing industry to initiate an effort to raise the visibility of the significant contributions that the printing industry makes to the commerce of the State of Washington. To this end, PIA with help from Kelly Spicers established Printing Industries of Washington (WAPrint) which has a single purpose to promote and protect the printing industry in the State of Washington.
On December 1, 2023, WAPrint’s lobbyist, Samantha Louderback, hit the ground running. Sam met with industry representatives on November 2, 2023 and is already working to better position the industry with Washington legislators and regulators.
In order to be successful, the effort needs the support of the printing industry in Washington. Yes, financial support is required but it is much more than just dollars. In order for the industry’s visibility to improve, printers will need to conduct tours and visit members of the legislature and their staff. How is it that politicians do not see the importance of printing when every campaign includes a component of print? Printers always complain that printing is taken for granted. The only way that complaint is going to be resolved is for industry to banned together and act. WAPrint was incorporated to support action. Please join the effort!
Samantha Louderback brings over a decade of experience in government affairs – including the past eight-plus years focused on representing the interests of small businesses at the state and local levels – to her position representing the graphic communication industry in Olympia.
As our lobbyist, Samantha is responsible for identifying, researching and monitoring issues that may impact our members, and then ensuring that key stakeholders are aware of our concerns and priorities. The strong bipartisan relationships that she has established with both legislators and government agencies are a big advantage for us in this area. Samantha’s relationship-based approach, combined with her skill at navigating complex political landscapes, have fueled her track record of lobbying success.
When not on the Hill advocating for our interests, you can find Samantha with her husband, young daughter and dog, either on the water, hiking or hanging out at their home in University Place, Washington.
