Why it Matters
The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association ramped up its in-house lobbying operation in Q2 2025. The trade group spent $160,000 fighting EPA emissions rules and promoting domestic tire manufacturing. This represents a strategic shift toward direct advocacy on high-stakes regulatory battles.
By the Numbers
- $160,000 spent on in-house lobbying in Q2 2025
- Over $9.6 million reported in total filings since 2003
- 2 lobbyists on the internal team: Sean R. Moore and Nicholas Dean Scoufaras
- External support from Alpine Group Partners LLC
Scoufaras brings significant Hill experience as former Legislative Director for Rep. Rob Woodall (R-GA). Moore has worked for USTMA since 2018 across 29 disclosure filings.
Broader Context
The EPA recently finalized emissions standards for rubber tire manufacturing facilities. The new rule requires expensive equipment installations like regenerative thermal oxidizers. Manufacturing groups argue these “midnight regulations” threaten American jobs and competitiveness. Environmental advocates counter that the standards protect public health in communities near plants.
The Agenda
USTMA is pursuing three core priorities through its Q2 2025 filing:
- EPA Rule Challenge: Supporting H.J.Res. 61 to disapprove new emissions standards for tire manufacturing. The House Rules Committee recently held a contentious hearing on the resolution.
- Domestic Retreading: Advocating for reintroduction of legislation similar to H.R.3401. The bill would create tax credits up to 30% for purchasing U.S.-retreaded commercial tires.
- Stormwater Funding: Seeking FY2026 appropriations for roadway runoff protection programs.
Competitive Landscape
The EPA rule fight involves a broad coalition of manufacturing groups opposing the standards. Environmental and public health organizations are lobbying against the disapproval resolution. On retreading, trucking associations would likely support tax incentives. Foreign tire manufacturers could oppose domestic preferences.
Between The Lines
The Congressional Review Act battle over EPA emissions standards reflects deeper tensions. Republicans frame it as regulatory overreach hurting American manufacturing. Democrats argue it’s necessary public health protection. The Senate has companion legislation S.J.Res.24 introduced by Senator Tim Scott. House floor action appears imminent following the Rules Committee hearing.
The Bottom Line
USTMA’s lobbying targets active congressional debates with significant industry implications. The association is leveraging insider expertise to navigate regulatory challenges. Success on either EPA standards or retreading incentives could meaningfully impact domestic tire manufacturing competitiveness.
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