Driving Advocacy Forward: Affinity Truck Center at the 2025 ATD Legislative Fly-In

Earlier this month, Kim Mesfin and Danielle Dobbins had the privilege of representing Affinity Truck Center at the 2025 ATD Legislative Fly-In, held June 3–4 in Washington, D.C. This annual event, hosted by the American Truck Dealers (ATD), brings together commercial truck dealers and industry leaders from across the country to advocate for policies that support businesses, customers, and the broader transportation economy.

Key Issues Discussed

Over the course of two impactful days, attendees engaged directly with members of Congress and key policymakers to discuss the most pressing issues facing the industry. Among the top priorities were:

– Repealing the 12% Federal Excise Tax (FET) on new heavy-duty trucks—a move that would help modernize fleets with safer, cleaner, and more efficient vehicles.

– Opposing overbroad “Right to Repair” legislation that could compromise vehicle data security and safety.

– Supporting legislation to combat catalytic converter theft, which continues to affect both light- and heavy-duty vehicles.

– Advocating for relief from the Clean Truck Partnership (CTP) after the passage of H.J. Res. 87 and 89 officially revoking EPA waivers granted to California’s Air Resources Board (CARB) for its Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) and low-NOx Omnibus rules.

– Challenging the EPA’s Phase 3 GHG standards, advocating instead for regulations that are both technologically feasible and economically practical.

NextGen Steering Committee

As Vice Chair of the ATD NextGen Steering Committee, Danielle Dobbins was honored to step in and present the NextGen report to the ATD Board of Line Representatives. The energy and commitment from NextGen members were inspiring—aiming to double membership this year and continue building a strong pipeline of future industry leaders.

Networking Opportunities

The Fly-In also offered valuable networking opportunities, including a reception at Hotel Washington and a memorable visit with Rep. Vince Fong, where unique challenges and opportunities facing California truck dealers were discussed.

Conclusion

Events like the ATD Fly-In remind us that advocacy is not just about policy—it’s about people. It’s about showing up, sharing stories, and making sure the voices of dealers in communities like Fresno and Bakersfield are heard on Capitol Hill.

Thank you to the ATD team for organizing such a meaningful event, and to everyone who continues to champion the future of the industry. Affinity Truck Center is proud to be part of a team—and a network—that’s driving change where it matters most.