Why it matters
The retail industry’s largest trade association is deploying substantial resources to influence policy on multiple fronts, particularly targeting labor regulations and international trade policies that impact retailers’ bottom lines.
The big picture
NRF’s lobbying disclosure reveals an organization fighting battles across Congress and regulatory agencies, with particular focus on opposing pro-labor legislation, reshaping international trade policies, and addressing retail crime.
By the numbers
- $2.78 million spent on in-house lobbying in Q1 2025
- 31% increase from Q4 2024 spending ($2.15 million)
- Six external lobbying firms retained for specialized advocacy
Inside the lobbying team
NRF’s lobbying operation combines veteran in-house lobbyists with external specialists:
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Seasoned veterans: M. Scott Vinson (with NRF since 2001), Edwin Walter V. Egee and Jonathan Gold (both since 2007)
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Strategic expertise: Stephanie A. Martz, former Chief Counsel for the Senate Judiciary Committee, brings valuable legislative insight
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New blood: Ashton Wiggins joined the team in Q1 2025
The substantial increase in lobbying spending suggests NRF anticipates significant legislative movement on its priority issues or is responding to new regulatory threats.
The federation maintains a strategic portfolio approach to external lobbying firms:
- Ulman Public Policy for labor issues
- Trautwein & Associates for healthcare
- Ferox Strategies for organized retail crime and data privacy
- Tholos Government Relations for tax reform and tariff legislation
Labor fights taking center stage
NRF is actively opposing the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO Act), which would strengthen unions and make organizing easier.
The federation is simultaneously supporting legislation to:
- Clarify independent contractor status (H.R. 1319 and H.R. 1320)
- Accelerate labor contract negotiations (S. 844)
NRF is also engaged on immigration reforms that could expand workforce access, including the American Dream and Promise Act.
Trade battles heating up
The federation is fighting on multiple trade fronts:
- Supporting efforts to eliminate China 301 tariffs
- Opposing revocation of China’s permanent normal trade relations status
- Supporting S.J.Res.37 to terminate tariffs on Canadian imports
- Advocating for renewal of various trade preference programs
The bottom line
- Whether the Senate-passed resolution to terminate Canadian tariffs (S.J.Res.37) will move in the House
- Potential movement on organized retail crime legislation, a top priority for retailers facing escalating theft
- The fate of independent contractor bills (H.R. 1319/1320) in the Republican-controlled House committee